Analysis of surface design and panel optionsfor freeform building

Roof and exterior wall are designed and constructed in a manner that prevents the accumulation of water within the wall and roof assembly in the formal building. However, in a freeform building there is no clear distinction between exterior wall and roof. In other words, the exterior walls and roof systems of the freeform building are integrated as a surface, unlike the formal building envelope. Therefore, freeform architecture needs a systemized envelope design method to perform functions of exterior wall and roof. However, in many cases, construction methods for roof and exterior wall are applied to freeform buildings without necessary alterations, which lead to incomplete design, leakage, cracks and other problems. Freeform architecture is thus designed and constructed differently from formal buildings. In order to more easily and inexpensively actualize freeform architecture, Building Information Modeling (hereinafter referred to as BIM) has recently been applied in the construction industry. The studies and case analysis are not sufficient to identify the implications and contributions of freeform buildings in future similar projects. Therefore, this research will study design and construction methods for freeform surfaces. This study attempts to analyze the pros and cons of each method for the concrete surface frame, and then presents the panel options for envelope system of the freeform architecture.