Teaching Design Technology
Design technology is fully integrated at Johnson Fain as all design team members have a hands-on knowledge of the software, hardware and workflow systems. Mark Owen, Director of Technology, along with leadership of the firm are continuously and strategically pushing the technology program to ensure innovation, creativity, and efficiency throughout the project duration. Integrated technologies include Revit, Rhino, SketchUp, Lumion, Enscape, 3D Studio Max as well as parametric modeling software including Grasshopper and Dynamo, which use analytical formulas to develop building form and design alternatives.
Utilizing AutoDesk software from the inception of computer technology in the design studio, AutoCad and Revit provide the main software tools to design and document all projects in the office. From very early conceptual studies to Construction Administration, computer technology has supplied our clients with many innovative design schemes, accurate documentation, and an expedited schedule.
Johnson Fain also utilizes 3D printing in its mode lshop allowing complex 3D computer models to be constructed into physical form. Building models are built in Revit and Rhino software and converted to a stereo lithographic format (STL) and plotted on a 3D printer. The firm has integrated real-time rendering and Virtual Reality into the design process which improves the communication of designs to clients and is valuable for the design team to visualize, evaluate and develop ideas throughout the design cycle of the project.
Mark Owen joined Johnson Fain as the Director of Technology in 2011 and has more than 24 years of professional experience in the integration of computer technologies into the design and production processes. He has 18 years of academic experience and is currently an Adjunct Professor at Woodbury University and UCLA Extension. Mark is recipient of the UCLA Extension Department of the Arts Outstanding Instructor Award. He has always experimented with and explored emerging design technologies, integrating them into his courses and was instrumental in developing the Revit curriculum at both universities. His skills in the classroom transfer to Johnson Fain as he educates staff on advances in technology while his experiences at the firm and rapid changing landscape of technology used in the architecture practice benefits his students.
At Johnson Fain, Mark is responsible for the evaluation, implementation and maintenance of all of Johnson Fain’s entire technology footprint including networking, communications, workstations, printing, digital fabrication, mobile devices, design software, applications and developing workflows for the specific design process. In addition, he is responsible for developing standards and training staff on technology. Mark graduated from Woodbury University in 1994 with a Bachelors of Architecture and completed his Masters of Architecture from UCLA in 1998. His primary area of study was on the integration of digital technology into the design and production process.