Computational Design (Level 1) focuses on translating digital design concepts into physical prototypes through the integration of computational modeling, fabrication techniques, and production workflows. The course emphasizes scripting as a bridge between ideation and material execution, enabling students to explore novel fabrication strategies and digital-to-physical transitions. Through automated drawing, metadata management, and rigorous documentation practices, participants learn to produce comprehensive fabrication-ready outputs that connect design theory to material realization.


Syllabus

Credits: Chysalis amphitheatre by Marc Fornes

Continuing the journey from the previous term, the focus would be to transfer the knowledge acquired from the previous term into tangible physical realities. Our endeavour transcends conventional design paradigms, as we navigate the intricate fusion of fabrication and design. Participants will acquire the skills to develop scripts serving as conduits from conceptual ideation to the realisation of intricate designs, thereby unravelling innovative means of fabrication. This course focuses on the profound translation of digital concepts into tangible objects, meticulously navigating the complex relationship between design theory and fabrication practices.

Throughout this course, we will meticulously explore the intricacies of production methodologies. We will examine the synthesis of digital tectonics with tangible reality, observing the seamless transition from the ethereal digital domain to the tangible world. Participants will be introduced to automated drawing techniques and sophisticated baking methods, leveraging tools such as metadata management, and production streamlining.

The curriculum places particular emphasis on the production of comprehensive documentation. Participants will develop the ability to generate meticulous and automated documentation, ensuring a thorough capture of every facet of the design process, thereby upholding standards of clarity and precision.

 

Learning Objectives

At completion of the course, the student will:

  • Understand fundamental concepts of computational design;
  • Learn how to create strategies to build algorithms;
  • Have knowledge of basic concepts of generative design;
  • Be capable of generating parameterized processes;
  • Apply data driven design logics;
  • Learn how to create dynamic modelling;
  • Obtain a deeper knowledge of algorithmic design concepts and parametrization of geometry
  • Obtain a deeper knowledge of data management in grasshopper
  • Learn in deep about the parameterization of complex geometries
  • Learn about the most recent workflows for complex modelling
  • Understand the notions and practical use of optimization algorithms

Faculty


Faculty Assistants


Projects from this course

Adaptive Helios-Prism

Project Description Sunlight-Adapted Parametric Design: The sculpture’s reflective panels are parametrically arranged to interact dynamically with sunlight. Their angles can be calibrated to optimize light reflection, create dazzling visual effects, or provide shifting patterns of shade throughout the day. Functional and Adaptable Plaza: The installation transforms the plaza into a versatile space. Its adaptive light-reflecting and … Read more

Passadís d’ordinadors

Concept Inspiration Creating a tensile pavilion structure based on Felix Candela‘s arch and aisle geometric logistics and diagrams. Iterative design approach based on ‘anchor points’ on a frame. Exploring scalable methodology for Kangaroo based computational design processes. ‘Iglesia de la Medalla Milagrosa‘ Felix Candela – photo by Lola Alvarez Bravo, 1954 Felix Candela Drawings and … Read more

Computational Design Seminar

Tetuán Lattice Canopy Tetuán Lattice Canopy is a lightweight tensile pavilion proposed for Plaça de Tetuan. Inspired by the plaza’s circular geometry, the project uses a hexagonal lattice to organize a structural field around the central monument. Hexagons are transformed into a three-dimensional network supported by branching columns. Fabric-like meshes are tensioned between the segments … Read more

Recursive Shell

This project, titled Recursive Shell, is located at Plaça del Pi. The pavilion explores form-finding through inverted arch logic and modular timber shells. Using a Kangaroo Bouncy Solver, the design optimizes structural stability via parameters like pressure, edge lengths, and vertex loads. The system consists of interlocking triangular panels and joint discs extracted from a … Read more

Echos of Catalan

Pavilion with a voice of its own . Every major milestone in Barcelona’s modern history has echoed through this square. By creating an “Acoustic Pavilion,” the design acknowledges that Plaça de Sant Jaume is a place of speech. The structure doesn’t just provide shelter; it uses Acoustic Ray-tracing to focus or diffuse the “Voice of … Read more

Chill.Point

Inspirations Chill.Point is a lightweight timber and fabric pavilion designed for Plaça Universitat, creating a shaded urban pause within the city. Inspired by exposed timber frames and tensile scaffold structures, it combines structural clarity with soft, breathable enclosure. Using computational and parametric design tools, the pavilion responds to sun, wind, and pedestrian flow, optimizing geometry, … Read more