INDEPENDENT STUDY

I started this process with the intent to use Ecotect to analyze a given model or set of models and inform me as to what exterior materials I ought to use on a selected face or structure. However, as I continued my research via readings, tutorials and personal interaction with the program my goals shifted. I understood firstly that the program was not going to be able to look at my building as say "use this" or "change this", but that through a series of answers in the forms of diagrams, graphs and numbers, the program would give me the information I needed to make these changes myself. Secondly, I became more interested in the process of shadows, shading, winds and climate and the sun path path and the way these factors inform design, particular design in process as opposed to a completed design. I believe that the overall goal that I stated in the beginning of this project, to become familiar with the basics in Ectotect and couple this with other existing knowledge to produce better design projects in the future, was ultimately accomplished. 


The primary thing I have learned from this experience is to not be afraid of technology. I tend to stray from computer programs like Revit or FormZ but found that this does not need to be the case. I found I was able to ease into the program and get comfortable with it rather than feel intimidated by it like I often do with other programs. I was able to extract the major things that I was looking for with little problems and look forward to exploring the program further on my own. I think the quality of some of the models I used hindered some of the processes, but in the end I was able to find a suggested type of shading and solar device. I ended up using this suggestion and researching it outside of the program and found one that would be ideal, which I have posted below. More importantly, Ecotect is able to teach and inform the user. I did not know what several of the different diagrams I produced meant or how to read them. Ecotect shows the user the information visually, but also provides legends and clear cut text telling you what you're looking at and how to use the data. For me this was a great relief, but it also turned out to be a second level of learning that I did not expect. Following and learning through Ecotect was easy and (I found it) enjoyable. Autodesk has produced a software that is capable of changing the way and process by which we design and remodel. It offers huge incentives for both architects, builders and building occupants alike, and I completely see it playing a larger role in the future. 

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