The Future of Architecture:
With increasing improvements in the technologies to visualise and execute architectural projects, the contribution of new and advanced techniques of architecture is also growing. These emerging technologies allow architects to seamlessly execute complex architectural forms and functions. While the originality and art in these architectural projects can be questioned, the improvement in new technologies has certainly and positively impacted the pace of development in many regions of the world. The future of architecture does not depend on the technologies used but on how they are used and up to what intensity.
Points of Upgrade:
There are a variety of available technologies that can help upgrade architecture projects at almost all possible stages. Architects are introduced to various emerging technologies in the conceptualisation, analysis, planning, development as well as execution stages of their projects. If these technologies incorporate the use of smart materials beforehand then the execution becomes much easier. A major factor leading to the fast-paced upgrades in the technologies is the environment. All new technologies and materials are focused on creating a more sustainable and environmentally safe architecture for the users. This article will discuss a few such technologies and materials that can change the face of the architecture and design industry.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The application of AI in architecture has dramatically evolved from a merely supportive element to a key function. AI can generate information and detail almost instantly. AI is like a digital brain that needs data to generate information on its own. This has reduced a significant amount of time and workforce for architects. All you need is a laptop supporting AI and most of the aspects of architectural design can be covered with the help of it. As interesting and optimum as it may sound, AI is often misused as a shortcut by architects and designers who are unable to generate original ideas and designs within a given timeframe. If AI is used responsibly, it can majorly help architects to rectify unforeseen errors in their designs as well as allow them to visualise new parameters of forms and functions.
Augmented or Virtual Reality (AR or VR)
While AI helps architects visualize and generate new designs, AR or VR allows architects to experience these designs. Despite years of experience in architecture, some architects and designers fail to explain how their spaces would look or feel. The user being a le-man also may fail to understand the complexities and proportions of designs through prints or digital copies. AR allows architects to fabricate the reality around the user and explain to them the changes their designs would bring. VR on the other hand creates a completely simulated world with the help of which the user can feel and experience the space in a better and more realistic manner. AR and VR have allowed architects to portray their thoughts in a detailed manner. This also helps them to cut down the gap between designing and executing. The process of explanation and finalisation takes up most of the time in a project before construction begins.
Building Information and Modelling (BIM)
While the above technologies assist in improving the visualization aspects of architecture, BIM helps to solve the more technical aspects of design. Using BIM software will align all facets of the project effortlessly. BIM will also point out the technical errors that may arise during the execution of certain designs. This helps architects generate practically workable designs. BIM also supports aspects like structural calculations, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and management of the entire design. This brings all consultants under one roof and helps each other work more efficiently and transparently. With the introduction of BIM, architects can now get rid of constantly coordinating every small change in design with all consultants separately. This saves a lot of time as well as money.
3D Printing
3D printing has evolved from generating architectural models to actual structures. Huge 3D printing machines can create entire built forms in just a few days. This technology can improve the accuracy and reduce the time for completion by 20 times. 3D printing can be simply operated by a few technicians and may not require any workforce to erect the building. This completely changes the way architecture is perceived. 3D printing can be the future for rapidly developing tier 2 cities. It uses a special type of concrete mixture that settles down and stiffens quickly, hence maintaining the form and strength of the structure.
Smart Materials
With rapid changes in environmental conditions worldwide, architects face the challenge of modifying materials in a way that does not harm the environment significantly. Sustainable materials have been introduced to tackle this issue, but they also increase the cost of the structure. As a result, smart materials have taken the architecture and construction industry by storm. Smart materials are regular materials used for construction with a few modifications and upgrades. These upgrades are made to increase the strength, durability, sustainability, and cost efficiency of the materials. Below is a list of a few smart materials:
- Self-Healing Concrete: As the name suggests this concrete can heal itself. Regular concrete is prone to cracks and damage over time. Self-healing concrete manages to heal the cracks and gaps on its own. The concrete mix contains fibres and capsules that secrete adhesive liquid which would fill the fissures in the structure.
- Piezoelectric Tiles: These tiles use the pressure applied when the user is walking over the tiles to generate electricity. Piezoelectric tiles can be applied in public areas or crowded areas. These tiles will help to generate sufficient electricity for the surroundings and public use.
- Electrochromic Glass: With the increasing use of glass facades, structures tend to heat up very quickly increasing the use of air conditioners and indirectly causing harm to the environment. The electrochromic glass automatically adjusts the opacity of the glass to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the structure. This saves a great amount of electricity.
Architecture is always evolving and growing with time. Architects need to explore emerging technologies and smart materials at their expense. When these technologies are in their infancy, they may seem too complicated to deal with. With systematic use, these technologies and materials can add more value and resilience to the structures and designs. However, architects must never forget that these technologies are merely a supporting element in their designs, not the primary element. Completely relying on any technology or material can be of huge risk in this rapidly transforming profession.
References:
- Emerging Technologies in Architecture: https://www.autodesk.com/design-make/articles/technology-architecture
- The Future of Architecture: https://indusuni.ac.in/the-future-of-architecture-emerging-trends-technologies-and-innovations.php
- Smart materials: https://remotefillsystems.com/sbt-what-are-smart-building-materials/
