Design and Construction as Computer-Augmented Intelligence Processes

Abstract

The purpose of design is no longer restricted to the construction of physical artefacts, as the emergence of virtual architecture and information architecture demonstrates. Methods and instruments developed for the design of physical architecture are also useful for the development of virtual architecture. Vice versa, important lessons can be learned from design and construction methods for information architecture. Certain quality criteria-such as the Vitruvian firmitas, utilitas and venustas-apply to both kinds of architecture. The computer can directly augment selected tasks by combining human intelligence and machine reasoning to arrive at new design results-both for physical and virtual architecture. This augmented human design and construction intelligence will be a key for future design processes.