Parametric Design for Ecological Purposes – Case Studies and Algorithm Examples

Abstract

Abstract Ecological architecture, which is often confused with low energy architecture, is some kind of energetic compensation for environment which is also giving a new direction for developing of new technologies and architectural solutions. The problem of global human population growth, demand for building materials, electricity, fossil fuels and water - systematically raises environmental standards which have to be met by modern architectural objects - whose construction, operation, maintenance and disposal today consume 60% - 70% of the world's energy. This issue becomes important also on a larger scale which is the urban and spatial planning - creating a vast area of research and the profession for contemporary design thinking. Software engineers develop tools which allow designers design in accordance with the doctrine of ecology and sustainability. At the forefront of this technological race, there are parametric and generative design programs - giving designers extraordinary opportunities to shape the form of buildings based on the assumed ecological parameters. This article will talk about the Bridge Pavilion in Zaragoza (2008), 30 St Mary Axe in London (2004), Al Bahar Towers in Abu Dhabi (2012), City of Culture of Galicia in Santago De Compostela,  (2000-2013), Free Railway International Competition in Posen (2015). Beyond the theoretical consideration of the specifics of the presented objects, the article defines practical algorithmic sequences for generating forms of these objects. Sequences presented in the article were created in the Grasshopper and illustrate methods of creating specific buildings, with special attention to their environmental properties.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.sace.12.3.12989