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The nine steps of construction design: Introduction


This series provides an overview of nine design steps used in Modern Construction Case Studies by Andrew Watts, focusing on...


Step 1: Spatial analysis


Venn diagrams not only map spatial relationships but also guide material choices, environmental controls, and reuse of existing structures. Imagine...

Andrew Watts

Step 2: Functional arrangement


How can the ‘Manhattan’ Voronoi pattern revolutionize building layouts? Learn how innovative spatial arrangement combines rectilinear spaces and 45-degree walls...


Step 3: Spatial arrangement


How can Voronoi-inspired spatial planning transform the flow and experience of movement in dynamic buildings? Discover how activity and support...


Step 4: Volumetric arrangement


In this step, you will learn how volumetric forms can enhance both external aesthetics and internal flow in building design....


Step 5: Environmental strategy


This environmental strategy organises spaces by performance needs, addressing temperature, humidity, and lighting with both passive and active solutions. By...


Step 6: Structural strategy


How can reusing existing structures enhance sustainability while meeting load demands? This structural strategy examines whether to start from new...


Step 7: Envelope strategy


The envelope design integrates with spatial, structural, and environmental strategies to optimise performance. Facades and roofs are zoned for specific...


Step 8: Fabrication strategy


This stage focuses on coordinating spatial, environmental, and structural systems, refining designs through iterative processes. How can integrating stakeholder input...


Step 9: Construction strategy


How can the choice between prefabrication and site assembly influence construction time, costs, material efficiency and visual considerations? This step focuses...

Featured Articles

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Article

Prototyping


by Andrew Watts
Article

Design to prototype: Design method and project management


by Andrew Watts
Article

Modern Structural Design: Introduction


by Andrew Watts
Article

Modern Environmental Design: Introduction


by Andrew Watts
Article

Trends in facade design


by Andrew Watts
Article

Trends in roof design


by Andrew Watts
Article

Working with industry: manufacturers and fabricators


by Andrew Watts

Construction Elements

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Envelope

Roof

Facade

Wall

Stair

Floor

Window

Entrance

Featured Case Studies

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Case study

HQ Building, SF Bay Area, CA, USA


by Andrew Watts
Case study

E-Sports gaming centre: Approach to structural design


by Andrew Watts
Case study

University teaching building: Environmental strategy


by Andrew Watts
Case study

University teaching building: Typical bay adjacent to facade


by Andrew Watts
Case study

School building: Site Context


by Andrew Watts
Case study

Industrial start-up building: Spatial arrangement and internal circulation


by Andrew Watts

Materials

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Steel

Timber

Glass

Concrete

Polymer

Aluminium