Massing
Massing is a fundamental architectural concept that refers to the overall shape, size, and three-dimensional form of a building. Think of it as looking at a building's basic shape without any details - like looking at a simple block model. Architects use massing to plan how a building will fit into its surroundings, how it will affect sunlight and shadows, and how it will look from different angles. It's similar to when you're arranging blocks to create a basic shape before adding details. This term often appears in design proposals and urban planning documents, and it's a crucial early step in the building design process.
Examples in Resumes
Developed massing studies for a 20-story mixed-use development in downtown area
Created multiple massing options to optimize building orientation and solar exposure
Led team in preliminary massing analysis for residential complex to meet zoning requirements
Typical job title: "Architects"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Architects
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you approach massing studies for a complex urban site with multiple constraints?
Expected Answer: A senior architect should discuss analyzing site conditions, zoning requirements, environmental factors, and how they would create multiple design options that balance client needs with urban context.
Q: How do you use massing to address sustainability goals in your projects?
Expected Answer: Should explain how building shape and orientation can affect energy efficiency, natural lighting, and thermal performance, with examples from past projects.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when developing initial massing concepts?
Expected Answer: Should mention site analysis, solar orientation, views, surrounding context, program requirements, and basic zoning regulations.
Q: How do you present massing studies to clients who may not be familiar with architectural concepts?
Expected Answer: Should discuss using simple models, diagrams, or 3D visualization tools to communicate ideas clearly to non-architects.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is massing and why is it important in architectural design?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that massing is the basic 3D form of a building and its importance in early design stages for understanding scale and impact.
Q: What basic tools do you use to study building massing?
Expected Answer: Should mention physical model making, basic 3D modeling software, and sketching as tools for exploring building form.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-3 years)
- Basic 3D modeling
- Understanding of building forms
- Simple massing studies
- Basic site analysis
Mid (3-7 years)
- Complex massing analysis
- Zoning regulation compliance
- Environmental impact studies
- Client presentation skills
Senior (7+ years)
- Advanced urban design strategy
- Complex project leadership
- Sustainable design integration
- Team coordination
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic architectural principles
- Inability to read and interpret site conditions
- Lack of experience with 3D modeling tools
- No knowledge of building codes and zoning regulations
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Beyond Borders: Mastering the Art of a Global Onboarding Calendar
Workforce Solutions Aggregators: The Next Big Thing You Didn't Know You Needed
Refining Job Descriptions to Expand Applicant Pools: Casting a Wider Talent Net
