Tools for three dimensional design

Abstract

This paper considers the problems inherent in making abstractions of architectural concepts. Abstraction is the process universally used in design work to fix an idea so that it may be remembered while it is evaluated, altered or elaborated. Traditionally this is done with paper and pencil, but here the suitability of this medium is questioned. From analysis of the architectural concept's properties, desirable properties of abstraction tools and of the design process a set of tools is proposed to satisfy the perceived requirements of three dimensional design.