Humanizing Parametricism

Abstract

As we increase the complexity and correlations of variables that are critical to the design of a project, we are becoming increasingly aware of the possibilities emerging from a computer integrated design process. There is such great opportunity to use these tools to manage and analyze multi variable design information, yet there is still much criticism of the design solutions created from computational design. These design solutions have been said to be “lacking any character, cultural influence, human engagement, or communication” and that “most of our contemporary architecture has forsaken this dimension of architectural discourse and it’s potential for exceptional spaces.” The current focus of computational investigation is primarily limited to building performance and optimization. Buildings that are designed from a purely optimizational construct without acknowledging the users desires and needs are falling short in creating “places”. Optimization can be the end result, but the constructs that are being optimized must be broadened to address all facets of a project. Computational design has emerged because it has the capacity to resolve multiple constraints and deal with extreme complexity of variables. By optimizing a more holistic set of constraints, computational architecture can truly provide comprehensive design solutions.