Design-to-Reality (DTR)

Turning Ambitious Ideas into Buildable Solutions

At Sculptform, we understand that great architecture ideas often push the boundaries of what’s possible. Our Design-to-Reality (DTR) process bridges the gap between visionary architecture and practical construction. Leveraging advanced parametric modeling, our process transforms complex ideas into precision-detailed, ready-to-install components, ensuring that every design remains true to its intent while making the installation process seamless for builders and installers.

What is Design-to-Reality (DTR)?

DTR is our comprehensive pre-construction service, delivering seamless collaboration and guiding complex architectural designs from concept to completion.

Parametric Modeling Expertise

By leveraging advanced parametric modelling tools like Rhino and Grasshopper, we automate complex designs, rationalise them for construction, and ensure they can be delivered as precision-cut, ready-to-install components.

Pre-Construction Feasibility

By analysing the project’s feasibility early on, this helps us identify challenges upfront, ensuring that the design remains practical and cost-effective, ultimately reducing the risk of costly changes.

Prototyping

Prototyping allows us to create tangible models of key design elements, facilitating hands-on testing of functionality and aesthetics. This enhances precision and accuracy, ensuring the final components meet design requirements and minimising construction errors.

Precision Manufacturing

Our Kit-of-Parts approach delivers pre-indexed, ready-to-install components to the site, streamlining the construction process. This organised method simplifies assembly, reduces on-site errors, and enhances efficiency, leading to a more predictable construction timeline.

The DTR Process

The DTR Process at Sculptform guides projects from concept to installation. It starts with Discovery, aligning on design goals, followed by Concept Development, where alternatives are explored. Feasibility ensures the project is on budget, and the Design phase refines ideas into parametric models. Finally, Documentation provides precise construction plans for efficient installation.

	Discovery We start by understanding the design intent, project goals, and essential criteria for success, with the option to develop a preliminary budget.
	Concept Development Working closely with the client, we develop and explore design alternatives, ensuring alignment with the vision through physical testing when needed.
	Feasibility Analysis We provide cost estimates alongside design concepts, refining and adjusting based on client feedback to ensure a viable, on-budget project.
	Design Optimisation Once a concept is approved, we refine the design and transform it into parametric models ready for precision manufacturing. Prototyping key elements ensures buildability, preparing the design for straightforward installation.
	Documentation & Delivery Final construction documentation is created, with all components delivered as a precision-cut kit-of-parts. This approach ensures fast and efficient onsite assembly, minimising complexity during installation.

Kit-of-Parts Approach

Our DTR process ensures your project components are delivered as a well-organised kit-of-parts, with each piece precision-cut and labelled for efficient assembly. This system reduces onsite errors, speeds up installation, and allows builders to focus on construction rather than solving assembly challenges.

Real-World Applications

Explore how our Design-to-Reality (DTR) process was used in our own Sculptform Design Studio.

From intricate parametric designs to large-scale curved timber installations, our process delivers innovative outcomes for even the most ambitious projects.

Parametric Curved Timber Rooftop Canopy Realised with DTR

Working closely with H&E Architects, Sculptform leveraged our Design-To-Reality (DTR) approach to turn a complex design into a buildable and structurally sound feature for The Sofitel Wentworth Hotel. 

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