The shapes(mass) of buildings are determined by many interrelated factors, such as planning and building regulations, the size and shape of building parcels, and adjoining road conditions. Understanding the effects of the determinants on the building shapes is not a simple task because of the multiplicity and complex interrelationships of the determinants. This study developed a prototype of three dimensional computer model that can simulates the determination process of building shape using GIS and CAD techniques. A commercial block in the south of Seoul was selected for the case study. Several methods of building height control were applied, and their effects on the cityscape were evaluated. The results shows that the three dimensional computer modelling offers an effective means for evaluating the effects of planning and building regulations. The implication of the case study and future research directions were discussed.