“Generative Systems – Evolving Computational Strategies” + “ Formal Matters - The virtual as a generative process” By: Therese Tierney

Tierney discusses various topics that are of essence to the future of architecture and design. Architecture has become a multifaceted discipline because of the issues that we have to address in the present and in the future. It is this reason that has led to a development of more complex design tools that aid us in ways that were never thought possible. These technological tools are simply that: tools. We cannot expect for them to develop our design process to a full extent because human input is essential. It is up to us to differentiate between functional and non functional, and aesthetically pleasing and not pleasing. What these tools do is help us get to a point where we find a workable scheme which we can further develop. The author talks about a type of design helps us find better options to a specific creation. It is called parametric design.

With parametric design software, a designer is able to insert a group of rules or parameters that the computer has to work with, for example the area of the building or the height of a structure. Other parameters such as structure functionality may also be inserted and are often used by engineers. Once this set of data is inserted into the program, the computer begins to generate many different schemes that are consistent with the limits. From all these schemes the designer is able to choose which ones are most efficient and functional. With these programs, the computer is able to produce schemes that might not have been thought of by the designer which is a great advantage. These schemes may lead to a more efficient way of building or a more efficient use of energy within the building. The author does pose a question at the end of her description of the program however: “How much creative agency or choice does the designer actually have?” The designer may not have a complete choice of design per se, but the final choice of the design is entirely up to the designer. It is up to them to develop the scheme further and make it completely functional and aesthetically pleasing. We could say that these schemes produced by the computer are only a source of inspiration.

Another theme that is discussed by the author is the importance of collaborative work between several practices for example, architects and biological engineers, or designers and scientists. This work between several professions is inevitable in the future. Architects need to think beyond aesthetic design and begin to think about sustainability and efficient use of energy. By working together, designers are able to explore many facets of the design and in doing so, creating a more functional and efficient one. The software that is being used for design purposes was once used only by scientists and engineers. It is evident in this sense that both professions are inter-relatable. In all, it is a complex combination of mutations and changes that need of several factors to become an optimum design or concept. Many factors must be calculated in, not only mathematically, but also professionally and socially. It is the work of many people and points of view as well as mathematical factors that will help the future of design be brighter.