Minecraft Architecture Design-Build Challenge

This week's "Design-Build" challenge lets us use Minecraft as a rapid prototyping tool. Minecraft is quick to work with, but clearly not accurate like real CAD software. This exercise is a chance to exercise "choice" and then follow through on these design decisions. We're not looking for exact replicas (as one might attempt with the precision of CAD), but rather an explanation of choices made and how your work supports them.

1) As a team, choose an architect we've learned about and attempt to emulate elements of his/her style.


2) Decide on at least 3 qualities that are emblematic of that architect.


3) Each student in your team will craft their own structure in Minecraft that they feel captures these key elements. Some architects may lend themselves better to Minecraft than others. Remember, "trial and error" (aka "fail early, fail often") is the key to nearly every breakthrough. It's only digital blocks... try lots of solutions/designs! In the absence of ideas, build!


4) As a team choose the product from your team that best represents the qualities you were attempting to emulate.


5) The class will conduct a "gallery walk" of each team's chosen design. Which team will be voted "best in class"? Be sure to share with your classmate how your design meets the qualities you selected (post some notes next to your laptop?).


6) Describe your experience on your online portfolio (blog):
- Summarize what you were attempting to do. What architect did you choose? What 3 qualities were you trying to emulate?
- Post images of your personal effort. If you were attempting to emulate a real building/structure, post an image of the structure in question.
- How does your design meet the criteria selected for the architect in question?
- Post images of the design selected to represent your team.
- List 4 pieces of feedback ("+" or "change") you received from other groups.


JB working to a photo reference: