Course detail

Computer Skills – Parametric Design

FA-PAD-NAcad. year: 2025/2026

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)

Entry knowledge

Not applicable.

Rules for evaluation and completion of the course

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.
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.

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.
– Students will learn object visual scripting in Grasshopper.

Study aids

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 B_A+U Bachelor's 3 year of study, winter semester, elective
    4 year of study, winter semester, elective
    specialization --- (do 2022) , 3 year of study, winter semester, elective
    specialization --- (do 2022) , 4 year of study, winter semester, elective

  • Programme N_A+U Master's

    specialization --- (do 2022) , 1 year of study, winter semester, compulsory-optional
    specialization --- (do 2022) , 2 year of study, winter semester, compulsory-optional
    1 year of study, winter semester, elective
    2 year of study, winter semester, elective

Type of course unit

 

Exercise in computer lab

26 hod., optionally

Teacher / Lecturer