# Finch 101: Massing Studio

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### 1. Open Your Project in Finch

Start by opening your **Finch project**. In this example, we’re using a **mixed-use tower** imported from Forma.

You should see:

* Your **building mass**
* Any **context** (e.g., buildings, trees, terrain)

On the right, you’ll see a breakdown of **data drawers** used to manage and analyze your mass.

***

### 2. Assign Programs to Floors

* Select individual or multiple **stories**
* Choose from default programs like:
  * **Retail**
  * **Office**
  * **Residential**
  * **Circulation**

**View Program Distribution**

As you assign programs:

* A **ring chart** updates to show usage breakdown
* Assigned areas are color-coded
* You can view program percentages and GFA allocation in real-time

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### 3. Adjust Your Massing in External Software

If you’re not meeting target GFA or program ratios, you can:

* Modify your massing in the modeling software (e.g., Forma/ Revit/ Rhino)
* Re-upload the revised model to Finch

This gives you full control while maintaining a flexible early-stage workflow.

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### 4. View and Edit Custom Metrics

Finch allows you to add **custom calculations** per program. For example:

* Add a **budget estimate**:
  * Set $1,500 per GFA
  * Select "Budget" to see cost totals

You can repeat this for each program (e.g., **Retail**, **Office**), and even extend it down to **space types** in your floor plates.

**Example**: *Add a specific kitchen cost in an apartment unit for more detailed estimates.*

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### 5. Modify Story Heights

By default, all floors have the same height. To adjust:

* Select a specific program (e.g., Penthouse, Retail)
* Enter a new height (e.g., 6000mm for retail)

**Note**: *The wireframe of your original mass remains unchanged, as it reflects your **external model**. Finch adjusts internal divisions only.*

***

### 6. Adjust Outer Wall Width

**Open the "Outer Wall Width" Drawer**

* Default outer wall width is **350mm**
* To change it, simply update the value (e.g., **450mm**)

This creates a visual buffer between your wireframe (external shell) and interior walls in Finch.

**Reminder**: *Your original model represents the **exterior volume**. Finch works **internally**, offsetting with the wall thickness you define here.*

***

### You're Ready to Generate Floor Plates

With programs, story heights, and wall settings in place, you’re ready to move into the next phase!


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