The field of architecture has been witnessing many transformative design methods, technologies and ways of thinking over the last century. A major innovation has been the development of parametric architecture, which has broken the boundaries of creative thinking and innovation in the last few years. Keep reading to learn all about parametric design and its meaning, evolution of parametricism in architecture, process of parametric modeling and its applications and benefits in construction.
What is Parametric Architecture?
Parametric design is a method used by architects to generate different digital designs based on inputs that they provide. Computational modelling software—which are digital tools that work on the basis of mathematical formulae and algorithms—are used in parametric architecture today. In these software tools, designers can vary their requirements and obtain multiple design solutions that fulfill these requirements, thus enabling architects to explore numerous options before deciding on the best one. Complex geometric and organic forms can be visualised, designed and built with the aid of parametric modeling, significantly pushing the boundaries of design innovation and leading a revolutionary change.
How Did Parametric Architecture Evolve?
Parametric architecture has been a gradual development following the advancement of new technologies like computational design, BIM, prefabrication and 3D printing. Some of the prominent architects who led this development are:
- Antoni Gaudi: Although computational technology was not developed at the time, popular Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi designed iconic structures like the Sagrada Familia (in Spain) based on parametricism. He created physical models in which strings could be maneuvered to modify parameters and obtain varying forms.
- Frei Otto: German architect Frei Otto was a pioneer of tensile structure design, including the famous Munich Olympic Stadium. He used soap bubbles to experiment with different forms and arrive at the ideal design.
- Zaha Hadid: Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid, known as the “queen of curves”, led a revolution in modern architecture with her use of parametricism. Her iconic designs, such as the Heydar Aliyev Center (Azerbaijan) and the Guangzhou Opera House (China), have redefined architectural design and innovation.
How is a Parametric Structure Designed?
The major components of parametric design are:
- Parameters and Algorithms
Parameters refer to specific traits or characteristics that can control how a building is built, looks and/or functions. These may be numeric values like building dimensions and material quantities or abstract concepts like aesthetics and emotional responses. In parametric architecture, the important parameters are defined by designers and can be varied to check the results produced through algorithms (which may be mathematical equations or computational processes). For example, one input parameter is climate. An architect can design different variations of a building based on whether it is sunny, cloudy or cold. These design variations are generated by algorithms.
- Generative Design and Operational Analysis
Based on the input parameters, a building design can be generated with parametric software. The building’s probable operational efficiency—based on factors like sustainable construction methods, project cost and structural stability—can be virtually measured. The input parameters can then be modified to obtain the optimal building qualities.
- Parametric Design Software
These enable architects to conceptualise, visualise and create innovative designs.Some of the commonly used software for architectural parametric design are:
- AutoDesk Revit: Architects use this popular tool as part of Building Information Modeling (BIM) software for designing parametric buildings and generating construction details.
- Creo parametric: This is a Computer Aided Design (CAD) software that can be run on Windows and used for 2D and 3D parametric modeling.
- CATIA: Supporting multiple stages of building design and construction—such as concept development, design drawing and machine manufacturing—CATIA is a popular parametric software.
- Grasshopper 3D: Used along with Rhinoceros 3D, Grasshopper is a parametric software that can generate designs based on numeric, textual, haptic and audio-visual algorithms.
How is Parametricism in Architecture Changing the Design Industry?
- Design Innovation: Complex geometries and organic forms like hyperboloids, paraboloids and freeflowing curves can easily be designed with the aid of parametric modeling. This greatly pushes the boundaries of creativity, allowing architects to produce designs that were earlier considered impractical.
- Project Management: Software used for parametric design are typically integrated with other software used for processes like site analysis, drawing production and construction management. If any changes are made in one tool, the same is automatically and immediately reflected in all of the tools, thus making project management a seamless process.
- Accuracy and Cost Estimation: Construction drawings, details, project schedules and cost estimates can be generated quickly with parametric design software. This reduces the time spent by designers on mechanical work, allowing them to focus on creative aspects and also minimising the possibility of any errors.
- Construction and Operational Efficiency: Parametric design processes evaluate site and project specific requirements to suggest optimised structural designs, material usage and construction techniques. Apart from reducing the total project cost, this also helps ensure the building’s operational efficiency and sustainability.
What are the Applications of Parametric Modeling?
Parametricism in architecture is commonly utilised to design the following building elements:
- Parametric Facade: Incorporating sustainable building practices as a driving concept, parametric facade design considers factors like climate, natural light and ventilation and surrounding views. Kinetic facades (facades that can physically respond to environmental stimuli) are commonly designed using parametric modeling.
- Parametric Wall: Parametric wall design involves 2D and 3D elements that can control various interior factors like light quality and amount, ambient temperatures and visibility between spaces.
- Parametric Roof: With automated responses—such as opening and closing mechanisms and unfurling of different layers like glass and roofing sheets as required— to environmental factors, parametric roofs can often control factors like the amount of sunlight, rain and wind entering a space.
Apart from these individual elements, the concept of parametricism can be used to design entire buildings as well. In recent times, the parametric design meaning has also evolved to include various other fields. Parametric wall art, product design, fine arts, fashion design and interior decoration are popular industries today.
The Future of Architectural Design
Parametricism in architecture is rapidly gaining more popularity and new technologies are being developed everyday to optimise the process of parametric design. Offering various benefits like increased design flexibility and assured sustainability, the concept is becoming an essential component of the modern AEC (Architecture, Engineering and Construction) industry. It is thus crucial to equip current architects and construction professionals with the knowledge of parametric technology, paving the way for future projects to be more eco-friendly, innovative and efficient.
Apoorva H P Achar