We can all agree that the terms such as “Parametric design”, “Parametric modelling”, “Algorithmic design”, “Computation design” or “Parametric-tools” and many others are often used within architects’ and designers’ circles; they involve a range of practices from the production of magnificent facades to ultramodern furniture. The ideas that can be generated are not limited to direct creation; they may be discovered and created via algorithms or other software applications.
What exactly is Parametric Design?
Parametric design is an approach in design that describes how the relationships linked with elements are defined by parameters. Parameters that are described in such a way that elements are related can be adjusted to allow different designs to be explored within a given scope.It is generally employed in architecture, engineering as well as in product design to create designs systematically within certain criteria and guidelines.
For instance, an idea might be submitted by an engineer about site dimensions, sun exposure quantity, and soil type. This would cause the algorithm to come up with a unique solar panel that is optimised for the particular site.
It has been in practice for centuries for buildings but in recent times it has rapidly been in use in fields such as fashion design, animation, and photography as well.
The History Behind Parametric Architecture :
Even though the word “Parametric architecture” sounds new, its applications date back to the 19th century. Antonio Gaudi’s works such as Casa Mila and Sagrada Familia are great examples i.e. the model of hanging chains was flipped and created as a structure of the main building.
Pioneer of Parametric design in architecture:
Schmidt Studio
Zaha Hadid is a pioneer in the use of parametric design in architecture. Her choice of parametric design embraced her innovative and creative design thinking. She experimented with the use of technology to create complex, fluid, organic, and dynamic forms that are way beyond traditional techniques/methods. The twists, curves, and blends featured in her buildings were only possible by the use of parametric modelling.
Parametric design is not only about designing beautiful forms but also works on incorporating environmental considerations. Zaha Hadid’s works on parametric designs have analysed various factors like wind, natural sunlight, material, and sustainable performance. Her buildings stand as a piece of art which has no boundary in defining the form and spaces.
Biomimicry through Parametric design:
Parametric design has its strong ground in nature. The inspiration came from the natural living and non-living beings which are themselves parametric.
For example, a Butterfly is parametric: it has wings, a network of veins, curves, blends, and twists all are created from a set of parametric equations. It takes into account the life of the butterfly, such as the way it flutters its wings, to stay up in the air and move around.
Similarly, parametric design focuses on all the variables of the design to create a unique design.
The most popular tool: Grasshopper3D
At first, an unfamiliar user of Grasshopper software will be very confused looking at the interface and its readily available plug-ins that have inputs and outputs.
At a very basic level, it produces the simple numerics and algorithms for 2d and 3d art/patterns. At an intermediate level, the user can have different ranges of inputs such as textual, and audio-visual sensors.
The use of parametric design in architecture can produce structural drawings, views, and fabrications, and analyse sustainable considerations like wind and sunlight.
Example: 632 tall skyscraper Shanghai Tower, completed in 2015.
It has a 120-degree twist, as it rises high, which reduces the wind loads on the building by up to 25%.
By opting for this practically impossible form with the help of computer-aided parametric design – Grasshopper 3D this Shanghai tower became an iconic landmark building for its form.
Futurism with Parametric Architecture:
The worry that AI would gradually replace architects troubles many professionals. However, a solution to this may lie in the architect’s hands. Instead of a given project or neighbourhood, a whole city may need a team of architects to create it. Cities are increasingly in the right; they can do this themselves due to the development of technology lore.”
Creating these smart cities may operate highly depending on the parametric architecture design. This will give the architect a new task; to come up with every single structure in the system altogether rather than each separately.
Citations:
https://howtorhino.com/blog/architecture-technology/parametric-design/
https://media.biltrax.com/parametric-architecture-the-new-age-building-design-style/
