A Closer Perspective on Fabrication Realities

Abstract

Digital Fabrication has arguably stirred the return of the architect to the long-held position as a master builder. The close engagement with materials offered by the digital fabrication technologies places necessary limitations and calls the architects for a deeper understanding of and awareness about the fabrication realities during the design process. The research conducted uses parametric modeling for the alteration of the design according to a wide range of influences, one of which is fabrication. This paper offers a close perspective on some fabrication necessities and limitations that emerged through the manufacturing of a number of scaled models of a parametrically designed shed and a full scale pavilion. The scope of this work falls into the realm of physical testing, tolerance, structure and assembly. It also points out the fabrication parameters that were part of the digital setting used to create the physical models. The paper argues that craft is still practically alive when deploying digital technologies as it has been ever present in the pre-digital era.