Parametric design

In the “Parametric Design” lab, participants were faced with the task of designing and planning a parametric structure, which was then implemented in the “Building with AR” lab. The entire design remained parametrically controllable and the parametrics could also be benefited from the manufacturing process. One result from the lab is our wavy bench. This was developed, planned and built together with the students. To illustrate, the next steps are explained using the bank.

parametric design is a design method in architecture in which design processes are controlled by parameters. Parametric design makes it possible to generate complex geometric shapes by defining and manipulating parameters. Digital tools such as Rhino or Grasshopper support this process by making it possible to develop and optimize parametric models. This method is used in areas such as façade design, structural optimization and urban design, where it produces innovative, adaptable and efficient designs. In the lab, we use the method for a smaller scale and use it to design a seating area. The following illustration shows how parameters can control design.

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Grasshopper, a plugin for Rhino, enables visual programming of parametric models, where architects can create complex algorithms by linking components without having to program. Together, Rhino and Grasshopper enable dynamic modeling and rapid iteration of designs, allowing complex geometries and designs to be created efficiently. The following illustrations show scripts in Grasshopper for the bank.

After the design was completed, production for the bench was also prepared in Grasshopper. For this purpose, the bench was broken down into its individual elements and distributed over the material plates with the least amount of waste in order to mill them out of them. Lanyards were also prepared with the help of Grasshopper. The bench was finally assembled in the “Building with AR” lab. You can find out more about this here read.

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