FMP: Week Seven & Eight

These last two weeks of the project were strictly dedicated to creating my final prototype and model, as I had acquired all the skills needed to create an effective outcome. It was vital for me to work effectively and efficiently in order to meet my deadline, as I began to notice that I was behind schedule in accordance to my project action plan and timetable.
Using accurate measurements to my scale '1:150' for my prototype was crucial, as I wanted to test that everything would fit together and needed it to be as close as possible to my final outcome since I was going replicate my measurements if they worked. Using scale proved to be significant as it allowed me to visualise how the building would look in real life.
This process was challenging as my shapes were relatively complex to work with and I would end up sticking the wrong ones to each other since they looked similar. However, I used this challenge as a learning opportunity and ensured to label each part.

Shapes created on Adobe Illustrator CC to exact measurements. Which were colour red in order to be laser cut.

Below is a picture of my final prototype , which I am relatively pleased with and will use as reference for my final outcome.

I decided to use cardboard for my prototype as it is easy to manipulate and stick together using UHU glue.

When capturing my photographs I considered different elements that could enhance the impact of my photo. Experimentation with light and angels was necessary.

To start my final outcome I had to engrave my map onto the plywood(6mm in thickness)that I had purchased, I used the same technique as I did in week 4. Therefore ,found it to be a relatively quick process as it just required me to transfer the same skills along.
The next part involved me carefully placing and sticking my artificial grass on the areas that were open greenery spaces in real life, I wanted my lawn to match the aesthetics of the building therefore used triangular patterns that were carefully designed to create pathways for my visitors. Overall, I was pleased with the realistic appearance of the grass and though that it worked well against my wood.

Engraved map of location, with artificial grass.

Through trial and error I had now become familiar with using Adobe Illustrator CC 2017 to draw my design to laser cut. I no longer made the mistake of not marking each piece of material or using the incorrect settings that didn't match my materials properties. To cut my final outcome I used the exact same file that I had previously used for my prototype, due to its success. I later spray painted my wood white using the spray paint booth located on level 9 due to safety reasons. I was satisfied with how the spray paint had full coverage however, did notice that I over sprayed some areas of my wood.

White spray paint being applied to my wood.

The main complication I faced when manufacturing my building is that I didn't take the thickness of the wood into consideration when measuring my design. This lead to some of my wood not meeting and other parts overlapping. Although I did try and draw my measurements again accurately the problem was still evident in my final outcome. Having been given more time I would re-measure the entire building and consider how the material could effect the outcome.

Attempt of overcoming problem/ new and improved measurements.

Gaps and spaces in my building.

Final Outcome.

Summary: It has been astonishing experience seeing my enthusiasm translate into my project and work. Although the process has been challenging it has also taught me new skills that will not only assist me through my educational life but throughout my future. Overall it has allowed me to gain an insight of the challenges that architectures face on daily projects, whilst giving me a chance to explore the different elements that made got me interested in architecture in the first place, such as thinking constantly looking for new possibilities to better a buildings function and aesthetics. My work will always be something I could look back at in the future and see how far I have come.