From standing hours on end drafting on large tables, to metaverses that allow users to see spaces in a dynamic environment, the influence of digitization on architecture specifically is not subtle. Technology at its core is an extension of ourselves. Phones are an extension of our hands, transportation is an extension of our legs, and broadcasting is an extension of our speech. These extensions inevitably made their way into architecture as a technological extension of how we live. The dependence of architecture and architects on digital design is now a necessity rather than an option. 3D modeling, simulations, digital fabrications, artificial intelligence, and BIM are ubiquitous, enabling better communication of a design and helping users to better understand their future living environments. With the constant and rapid evolution of technology, Digital Design presents itself as a huge opportunity for communities to experience the potential of spaces through an architectural perspective.
The intrinsic nature of digitization in present-day architecture
Almost every aspect of architectural design is dependent on technology. It is impossible to find a single practitioner now who does not use Computer Aided Design to develop drawings as it is an absolute necessity. Physical models now are primarily done with laser cutting and 3D printing that give out precise cuts with various materials that make for neat and presentable models. 3D visualizations, modeling, and renders are sine qua non to any practice or university. Architecture has now transformed itself into digital design to a point where it is impossible to disassociate the two.
This technological transition however is beneficial in many ways. It is now easier to make corrections, different iterations, and rapid changes to a design that inevitably leads to a better outcome. Clients and users have a better understanding of the spaces that they will inhabit and feel more comfortable sharing their opinions and inputs. Firms have their own identity through their presentations and rendering styles that are unique to them thus bringing in more clients that resonate with that identity. Digital design has opened several pathways for practitioners to take to elevate their designs and create uniquely flexible identities.
Digital vernacular
Reflections of vernacular architecture are typically found in traditional materials such as bricks, tiles, and rammed earthworks. Digital design now facilitates showcasing these materials in a unique experiential way through concepts of parametric designs to create vibrant spaces and built forms. Several architects and practitioners have utilized software and simulations to come up with different forms that reflect the character of a region and its people in a modern light, often in a cost-effective and time-efficient way. The celebrated works of Wallmakers and SP+A are good examples of synthesizing these rather contrasting concepts to create sensitive yet unique spaces for its inhabitants. 3D-printed structures are efficient in creating several replicable modules for low-income communities. Digital design offers fresh perspectives to familiarity and is powerful in creating hybrid craftsmanship between digital parametric design tools and local skilled labor.
The power of the metaverse and virtual reality
With the dawn of the metaverse comes the next wave of technological evolution. The metaverse is almost an experimental virtual container on which several unique worlds and iterations are possible. Digital design through architecture was bound to facilitate this container and practitioners are taking full advantage of its possibilities. Grimshaw, Farshid Moussavi, and many more have traversed this au-courant cyberspace and explored what it has to offer. Virtual reality allows clients to have a real-time understanding of a space enabling them to experience it holistically as it is the closest thing to reality. Virtual reality also allows designers to question their design process through real-time changes that can be made to a given space, paradoxically allowing for more human perception of architecture. Urban Planning in imaginary worlds with real-time design implications can prove to be highly beneficial as well. Some of the best projects often come from putting oneself in the shoes of the user, and the Metaverse facilitates this in full.
AI’s influence on digital design
Machine learning and artificial intelligence have improved exponentially in just a span of a few years through constant tweaking and data feeding. AI-generated artwork and renders have become popular among designers as they can produce incredibly detailed images with several iterations and varying styles in just a matter of minutes. Sometimes, these images are generated with minimal text prompts. DALL-E and Midjourney are arguably two of the most popular AI tools in the digital design world that require minimal prompts and using references, can generate a vast array of detailed images in an infinite number of styles. Navigating through these image generators can often lead to creative outcomes that act as a baseline for possible design evolutions.
However, there are complications with AI-generated images. The outcome is often not the outcome of the physical design, especially regarding built forms. The AI-generated images are often exaggerated. Additionally, outcomes based on text prompts can be controlled to a certain extent as the freedom to navigate a design space is restricted. A prompt, for example, Indian Architecture, often shows Mughal buildings, temples, or slum settings. The AI neglects everyday houses and bazaars. Thus, careful attention and consideration must be given while exploring these tools to create expected outcomes and not get swayed by machine-generated images. Machine learning is improving at a very fast pace and is a fascinating part of digital design with an intriguing future.
In conclusion
While some do not welcome the age of digital design, it is impossible not to acknowledge the benefits that it carries. Users and clients feel more connected and accepting of a project through real-time renders, visualizations, and the many possible iterations that account for their opinions, all facilitated by digital design. The wider public can now view projects through a more understandable lens making them more connected to the design and the process of development itself. For practitioners, the various technological tools and software allow them to be more creative and detailed in terms of outcomes. Digital design specifically in the world of architecture has allowed many practitioners to have a set identity among their presentations and projects allowing for spaces to be more vibrant and meaningful. While hand drawings and sketches are essential in ideation forming the core of the project, the digital design tools facilitate bringing these ideations to life.
References:
The digital in architecture: Then, now and in the future (2020) SPACE10. Available at: https://space10.com/project/digital-in-architecture/ (Accessed: 22 June 2023).
(Salem and Saad, 2011; Bhavna Shrivastava et al., 2013)
Digital: Technology Design (2022) Architectus Australia. Available at: https://architectus.com.au/digital/ (Accessed: 22 June 2023).
