Design Computing II - Architecture

In this course contemporary architecture is studied through the lens of computational methods. It is shown how in the past 30 years the relationship between architecture, theory, materials, and computation has transformed. Principles of parametric design, performative design, and generative design are presented and discussed in-depth through cases of key buildings and architects. Special attention is devoted to interactive architecture. A number of contemporary key issues in architectural theory are brought in relation with computational approaches. Practical application in this course is tested through Arduino prototyping. Arduino enables the creation of interactive structures using sensors, controllers, and Processing programming language. By creating a number of interactive applications students will learn the basic technological principles of interactive architecture. Keywords - contemporary design methodology, advanced parametric design, rapid prototyping, AI, robotics, automation, simulation, analysis, optimization, CAD / CAM, data mining, advanced data processing.

The exercises must lead to a solution offered by the challenge owner of the course. In the year 2023-2024, the challenge was formulated in the framework of Maker Technology: How can Maker Technology be used to solve contemporary problems in architecture? The stratégy to solve this follows the Apple (2010) Guide: (1) Big Idea, (2) Essential Question

The minimum number of students to open the course is 5. EXCEPTION for self-paying students: if there are less than 5 students, the course will be taught in consultations.

• Website of the Course

The course uses the pedagogy of Challenge-Based Learning. Students are given a challenge – this year provided by Leyla Kyjanek Yunis, director of the Maker Institute. During the course, they need to solve the challenge. They construct their own learning path how to solve the challenge. This is done using the framework by Apple Challenge Based Learning - A Classroom Guide, 2010 (https://www.apple.com/br/education/docs/CBL_Classroom_Guide_Jan_2011.pdf). The lectures in the course provide students with a critical update on the concepts of design computing, because this is not addressed at all during their regular studies at the faculty.