Massing

Massing is a term in architecture which refers to the perception of the general shape and form as well as size of a building.^[1]^[2]

Massing refers to the structure in three dimensions (form), not just its outline from a single perspective (shape).^[1]^[3] Massing influences the sense of space which the building encloses, and helps to define both the interior space and the exterior shape of the building.^[1] The creation of massing, and changes to it, may be additive (accumulating or repeating masses) or subtractive (creating spaces or voids in a mass by removing parts of it).^[4] Massing can also be significantly altered by the materials used for the building's exterior, as transparent, reflective, or layered materials are perceived differently.^[1]

It is widely accepted that architectural design begins by studying massing.^[5] From a distance, massing, more than any architectural detail, is what creates the most impact on the eye.^[6] Architectural details or ornaments may serve to reinforce or minimize massing.^[7] Because it has a direct relation to the visual impact a building makes, massing is one of the most important architectural design considerations.^[1]

Massing also has an effect on building energy efficiency. A complex shape can present more opportunities for heat loss through the building envelope. Reducing the number of exterior walls, along with a low vertical surface area to floor area ratio (VFAR) decreases heat loss potential. ^[8]

Some architectural styles are closely associated with massing.^[9]^[10] For example, the Prairie School is always low and horizontal, while the Gothic style emphasizes verticality and Georgian architecture focuses on solidity and a sense of permanence.^[9]