Design tools
Digital architecture
Only a decade ago, the most important tools in an architectural office were pencils and rulers. The digital revolution has since led to new ways of designing. Today, we work with terms like scripting, animated, parametric and algorithmic design.
With the advance of computers, our working procedures have changed radically. Today, we draw buildings which in the past would have been categorised as pure science fiction.
The use of new software amounts to more than just the digitalisation of traditional architecture. It is a new practice. This new architectural way of thinking can be called digital architecture.
The following chapters provide examples of different digital design tools.
Scripting:
Through scripting, the limitations of 3D tools are abolished. By making your own small programs, which can be loaded into the appropriate software, you can design new functions and commandos. Scripting often deals with automated processes or stand-alone functions.
Parametrical design:
Unlike traditional digital drawing programs parametric software is interesting because it allows working with related geometry. Through code the drawings can be related to external data and hereby provide an opportunity to work with statics, environmental and logistic conditions. The drawing is automatically being updated which makes it possible to generate various solutions without the need for redrawing.
Animated design:
Design with time as a fourth dimension. It often involves software which is primarily used by the film and gaming industry. In animated design, volumes can be changed into dynamic objects/soft bodies, and be impacted by different force fields, which makes the design vivid and dynamic.
Algorithmic design:
An algorithm is a procedure or a formula used to solve problems. Using mathematical models, geometric patterns and figures are generated. Thereby, a very high degree of complexity is attained, a complexity which cannot be created manually. Algorithmic design is often inspired by natural systems and is also often used to imitate such.
Weaver is a freeware mel. script developed by Emergent Design Group – can be used in Maya.
3D-printed model of the Strand Tower project by Testa Design built by an algorithmic variant of Weaver.
An example of animated design in which a surface is attracted to and influenced by different magnetic fields.
The illustration is from the film The Matrix.
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