Demystifying Architecture for the Next Generation of Designers- Bridging the gap!

The session focused on advanced chess tactics, starting with an in-depth introduction to skewers and differentiating them from pins. The Student then extensively practiced identifying and executing skewers, as well as reviewing back rank checkmates and solving two-move checkmate puzzles. The Tutor assigned a test on all previously covered topics for the next class.

The Student and Tutor reviewed the Student's academic background in architecture and their previous design project. They discussed learning objectives focusing on improving Rhino skills and design presentation workflow. The core of the session centered on detailed site analysis techniques using digital tools like Google Earth and CAD Mapper, and how contextual research informs architectural design. The next lesson is scheduled for Friday.

The class reviewed and practiced the four defensive methods in chess: moving away, blocking, capturing, and defending. The tutor then introduced and explained the concept of 'check' and 'checkmate' when the king is under attack, highlighting the specific defensive rules applicable to the king (move away, block, capture). Future sessions will likely build upon these concepts.

The student and tutor worked on building a 3D house model in SketchUp. They practiced importing floor plans, creating and extruding walls, and ensuring all geometry was properly aligned. The next session will focus on adding doors and windows.

The student practiced designing a bathroom in SketchUp, learning to create a floor, walls, and openings. They worked on positioning and scaling fixtures like shower screens and vanities, and were introduced to applying materials and exploring different visual styles. The tutor provided guidance on efficient modeling techniques and object management.

The Student and Tutor practiced fundamental SketchUp operations on an iPad, focusing on importing and scaling 2D house plans. They learned to explode drawings, create floor surfaces by drawing connected rectangles, consolidate surfaces, group components, and use the offset and push/pull tools to build 3D walls. The session concluded with saving the project to continue the next day.