A-Z Popular Blog Architecture Search »
Architecture
 Advertisements
Architecture Guides

What is Massing?

 , updated on
Massing is the three dimensional form of a building. This is often the starting point of architectural design as it is the big-picture view of the structure of a building. The following are common elements of massing.

Size & Scale

Massing includes the size of a building. As such, there are often constraints such as the dimensions of a site. Scale is also an important consideration. Generally speaking, buildings are constructed to human scale.

Interior Spaces

Massing dictates the shape and size of interior spaces.

Function

Massing that is useful for the function of the building. For example, a stadium with a massing that can house a football field and seat 66,000 people with a good view of the field.

Character

Massing largely dictates the character and overall expression of a building as viewed from the outside.

Place

The character of a building relative to its surroundings. It is common to model a building within its real surroundings.

Balance

Massing is typically designed to have a balanced visual weight.

Feasibility

The impact of massing on the overall architecture and its feasibility given constraints such as budget and regulations.
Overview: Massing
Type
Definition
The primary three dimensional form of a building excluding details such as ornaments.
Related Concepts

Architecture

This is the complete list of articles we have written about architecture.
Acoustics
Architecture
Elements
Lighting
Styles
Techniques
Technology
Urban Design
If you enjoyed this page, please consider bookmarking Simplicable.
 

Architecture

An overview of architecture with examples.

Architectural Technology

A list of common architectural technologies.

Night Architecture

An overview of night architecture.

Passive Design vs Active Design

The difference between active and passive design.

Universal Design

A definition of universal design with examples.

Passive Light

The common types of passive lighting.

Architectural Acoustics

The common types of architectural acoustics.

Parti Pris

An overview of parti pris in architecture with an example.

Genius Loci

A definition of genius loci with examples.

Compressive Strength

A definition of compressive strength.

Architectural Styles

A list of architectural styles.

Art Deco

An overview of Art Deco architecture.

Bauhaus

An overview of the Bauhaus style of architecture.

Googie

An overview of googie architecture.

Japanese Architecture

A list of Japanese architecture styles, techniques and elements.

Modern Architecture

The defining characteristics of modern architecture.

Art Nouveau

The basic characteristics of Art Nouveau with examples.

Gothic Architecture

An overview of Gothic Architecture with examples.

Renaissance Architecture

The basic characteristics of renaissance architecture with examples.

House Characteristics

A list of characteristics that can be used to describe the value of a home.
The most popular articles on Simplicable in the past day.

New Articles

Recent posts or updates on Simplicable.
Site Map