Course detail

Computer Skills – Parametric Design

FA-PAD-NAcad. year: 2020/2021

Parametric Design is a generative method in architecture and other art disciplines. The artist does not create an art piece directly, but he/she defines the algorithm (a sequence of operations according to which software creates a 2D or 3D structure) and based on the input parameters he/she can continuously and efficiently change the final look of the work.
The theoretical introduction is followed up by practical classes. Selected examples will demonstrate the possibilities of Grasshopper, the graphic coding editor. In the second half of the semester students will create individual planar and space designs in cooperation with the pedagogue.
In the study programme “Architecture and Urban Design” the course is part of the courses on tools.

Language of instruction

Czech

Number of ECTS credits

2

Mode of study

Not applicable.

Department

Department of Drawing (UZ)

Learning outcomes of the course unit

– Students will learn object visual scripting in Grasshopper.

Prerequisites

Not applicable.

Co-requisites

Not applicable.

Planned learning activities and teaching methods

Not applicable.

Assesment methods and criteria linked to learning outcomes

Production of two unique art designs (one planar and one space design), presentation of the designs which will reveal the algorithms leading to their creation, digital submission of the design on a CD.

Course curriculum

Semester block schedule:
I. Theoretical part (history, context, reference examples, literature)
II. Practical demonstrations of tools and possibilities of the software (work with linear and space elements; division; attractors; 3D modelling; work with the random number generator; bitmaps; basics of RhinoScript)
III. Work on projects, consultation
IV. Presentation of designs, grading

Work placements

Not applicable.

Aims

The aim of the course is to introduce the students to the progressive method of architectural design. Students will get an overview of the history and the present possibilities when programming architecture.

Specification of controlled education, way of implementation and compensation for absences

Active participation in the practical classes, submission of two projects and their final presentation.
In the case of a student's apology and with approval of the subject guarantor, personal attendance may be substituted with online attendance in the classes.

Recommended optional programme components

Not applicable.

Prerequisites and corequisites

Not applicable.

Basic literature

ARANDA, Benjamin; LASCH, Chris. Pamphlet Architecture 27: Tooling. New York : Princeton Architectural Press, 2006. 96 s. ISBN 1-56898-547-9. (EN)
PAYNE, Andrew; ISSA, Rajaa. Grasshopper Primer [online]. The second edition. [s.l.] : [s.n.], 2009 [cit. 2011-05-12]. Dostupné z WWW: < www.liftarchitects.com/storage/research/Grasshopper%20Primer_Second Edition_090323.pdf>. (EN)
SAKAMOTO, Tomoko; FERRÉ, Albert. From Control to Design: Parametric / Algorithmic Architecture. Barcelona : Actar, 2008. 240 s. ISBN 978-84-96540-79-8 (EN)
TERZIDIS, Kostas. Algorithmic Architecture. Oxford: Architectural press, 2006. 160 s. ISBN 978-0-7506-6725-8. (EN)

Recommended reading

Not applicable.

Classification of course in study plans

  • Programme ARCHURB Bachelor's

    branch ARCH , 4 year of study, winter semester, compulsory-optional

  • Programme N_A+U Master's 1 year of study, winter semester, compulsory-optional

Type of course unit

 

Exercise in computer lab

26 hod., optionally

Teacher / Lecturer