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Discovering Computational Design: A Journey Beyond Forms
- Architecture, Computational Design
- July 23, 2024
When I first heard the term ‘computational design,’ my mind immediately went to futuristic buildings with organic, flowing forms—something straight out of a Zaha Hadid sketch. To me, it was a realm of architecture reserved for the tech-savvy, those who could tame complex software to create jaw-dropping designs. But as I’ve journeyed into this field, I’ve come to realize that computational design is much more than just cool forms or technical stuff. It’s a new way of thinking about architecture—where logic, mathematics, and physical forces converge to shape design in ways I never imagined.
Well, these pictures are what I perceived this field to be. So what comes to your mind when I say this? Probably buildings which are complex organic forms. Or maybe some technical, complicated software. But that’s not it—actually, it’s so much more than that. The ‘non-conventional form-based architecture’ is probably what I thought it was until I actually got to know what it was.
Exposure to this Idea –
CEPT kind of exposed me to this whole thing through a software called Grasshopper (it is a plugin for Rhino, a 3D modeling software). This plugin is basically like visual coding that you do to design complex forms. Seeing my roommate doing some amazing stuff on this software and driving herself crazy, seeing her computer screen, my first thought was – that looks scary, … maybe that’s not for me,” since I’m not a tech-savvy person at all. All I knew was AutoCAD, and I had only made a few very bad models in SketchUp till then. But I was definitely excited to try or learn how to integrate organic forms into my design because, obviously, who doesn’t want cool models in their portfolio? So that became my notion: Software = Computational Design.
I had a few studios in my college that used this type of software…but still, I didn’t get myself to try them. And I’ll tell you why. I was hesitant to do an unconventional studio when people around were choosing to do hardcore architecture studio. So, I was really skeptical but mostly scared about not doing one of those studios in the set checklist and experimenting with something new. I know it sounds bizarre not to choose what you like when you have a choice.
So, I thought I will try to do some courses around this idea in winter school.
Workshop –
Still! The agenda was to learn software, so without thinking much and keen to start from somewhere, I jumped into a course offered in my college’s winter school. And I am so glad that I did!!
In the very first class, I realized that it is digital + physical explorations. In the workshop, we used both hands-on techniques and computer tools like Grasshopper and Kangaroo (a physics plugin) to explore how physical forces can shape design. We worked with materials like fabric and techniques like casting them to create efficient forms. The software helped us simulate and optimize these shapes, making the design process smoother and more precise.
After going through this process, I developed a new way of thinking about form and the parameters that affect form-building. We were also exposed to Antoni Gaudí’s work. He worked using computational principles without using computers. This opened up a large umbrella of computational design and the power it holds. I realized—that it’s a way of thinking, another way to design which is based on so much logic and analysis.
I fell in love with this way of thinking. For the first time, I felt like I could do this every day, and it was exciting! I even discovered that my university offers a master’s program in computational design. After checking out their work, I knew what I wanted to pursue in life. Trust me, this is the first time I haven’t been scared to jump into something. And mind you, I still feel like I’ve only scratched the surface—the desert of possibilities is still out there, waiting to be explored.
What Comes Next?
So that’s a glimpse into how I first stepped into the world of computational design, not as a tech expert, but as an architect-in-training eager to explore new possibilities. The journey so far has been eye-opening, and there’s so much more to discover. So, what do you think? Has this changed your perception of computational design? please drop a comment. If you’re curious to learn more about this field, stay tuned! Don’t forget to subscribe to stay updated!
References For Photographs Used
- Photograph 1 – Team, A. (2024, July 23). Parametric Architecture March Workshops. ArchDaily. https://www.archdaily.com/1013663/parametric-architecture-march-workshops
- Photograph 2 – Alvarez, L. (2024, August 21). Parametric architecture for urban wooden pavilions by Paul Stroia. AmazingArchitecture. https://amazingarchitecture.com/futuristic/parametric-architecture-for-urban-wooden-pavilions-by-paul-stroia
- Photograph 3 – Design Process. (n.d.). Antoni Gaudí. https://antonigaudidesigner.weebly.com/design-process.html
- Photograph 4 – Stott, R. (2023, March 6). Construction of Sagrada Família Accelerated by 3-D Printing Technology. ArchDaily. https://www.archdaily.com/613197/construction-of-sagrada-familia-accelerated-by-3-d-printing-technology
About Me
Devanshi Jain
Hi! Welcome to my blog. I’m an architecture student sharing my journey, from personal stories to diving into computational design as a complete beginner. Join me as I explore new techniques, tackle challenges, and discover how technology transforms design. Whether you’re a student, professional, or just curious, you’ll find valuable insights and a fresh perspective on architecture.
Such a great journey! And what an informative walk through your thoughts! Very very helpful
Excellent
Really cooool insights and a different take on the topic…would love to see more of your work on the same!!🫶🏻✨
very insightful, cant wait to see whats ahead!