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The digital age has radically reconfigured the relationship between conception and production,

creating a direct digital link between what can be conceived and what can be built through “file-tofactory”

processes of computer numerically controlled (CNC) fabrication.

It was the complexity of “blobby” forms that drew architects, out of sheer necessity, back into

being closely involved with the production of buildings. In the process, they discovered they have

the digital information that could be used in fabrication and construction to directly drive the

computer-controlled machinery, making the time-consuming production of drawings unnecessary.

The introduction of digital fabrication also enabled architects to produce scale models of their

designs using processes and techniques identical to those used in the industry. Thus, a valuable

feedback mechanism between conception and production was established.

This newfound ability to generate construction information directly from design information is what

defines the most profound aspect of contemporary architecture. The close relationship that once

existed between architecture and construction (what was once the very nature of architectural

practice) could potentially reemerge as an unintended but fortunate outcome of the new digital

processes of production. The digital generation of information to manufacture and construct

buildings can render the present inefficient hierarchies of intermediation unnecessary. As

constructability becomes a direct function of computability, the question is what new instruments

of practice are needed to take advantage of the opportunities opened up by the digital modes of

production.

04 – Digital Visualization

Julio Bermudez

Digital Visualization addresses representational challenges from within and without Architecture.

‘Disciplinary’

information associated with the production of buildings. 3D modeling, rendering, animation and

VR as well as the power of digital media to permit the seamless integration of various data types

are unleashing completely new ways to display architecture. As digital power continues to

increase and get cheaper, portability and wi-fi networks take root, and visualization work

becomes even more main stream, we can expect growing changes in the way the design process

is conducted, buildings are presented and documented, and the public and 3

from professional services. This demands a more conscious research/pedagogies aimed at

developing new representation conventions.

Digital Visualization is used to explore, understand and communicate architecturalrd party’s demands

‘Interdisciplinary’

ranging from artificial environments (e.g., video game worlds, cinematographic stage sets, web

and other cyber environments) to abstract data representation constructs (i.e., information

architecture), This type of work has already generated quite a number of new jobs, educational

programs and research projects in many industries, schools and universities. Whether or not this

type of knowledge implies a different type of architect (e.g., information architect) is subject to

debate. What is beyond argument is the fact that the need for this kind of expertise will only grow

in the coming years. Therefore, it is imperative that architecture programs pay serious teaching

and research attention to the areas of digital visualization.

Digital Visualization is a rapidly expanding area of expertise with competency

05 – Digital Projects: Defining Digital Architecture

Kevin R. Klinger

Architecture is presently engaged in an impatient search for solutions to critical questions about

the nature and the identity of the discipline, and digital technology is a key agent for prevailing

innovations in architecture. Although, this is really nothing new, as new technology

been

clearer definition of principles and skills necessary to maintain a rigor in emerging digital projects

has alwaysa catalyst for new ideas in architecture. A positive digital future in architecture requires a

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What is digital architecture?

as information reconfigures into digital visualizations, and projects evolve further as digital

fabrications. However, using digital technology doesn’t necessarily constitute creating digital

architecture. Ideas are still scrutinized by the author(s). Thus, a responsibility for a

dimension

equally with the critical as well as the technological skill base of the authors. Just as there is a

difference between building and architecture, there is also a distinct difference between digitally

generated projects and digital architecture.

Architectural ideas have found new forms of digital representations,criticalstill falls upon the author(s). Any new categorizations of architecture must connect

digital principles+rigor

algorithm for that surface? …A clear and critical definition of

materialize in the wake of these new tool driven terminologies. I submit that digital architecture

projects still come to life through the lens of a familiar architectural process—as a critical problem

solving activity that results in projects represented with a rigor and depth of idea and intention,

albeit with a highly sophisticated digital tool skill set. Without new principles, many projects

remain impenetrable and thus intimidating, or merely “interesting.” Without a rigor and critical

dimension, the projects will remain only exercises in software.

: Does the tool path limit the density of the ripple? Did I choose a suitablenew principles has yet to

digital skills:

Digital architecture requires proficiency with a specific foundation set of digital skills

such as:

solid modeling, video editing, motion graphics, rendering, animation, parametrics, drafting,

communications, layout, printing, presentation, database operations, web interface, CAM-based

fabrication, performance analysis: lighting, structures, systems, etc.

projects will not sacrifice the development of this skill set at the expense of a critical problemsolving

dimension. Thus, we must carefully consider the guidelines for what truly constitutes a

digital “architecture” project.2D composition, vector graphics, image manipulation, 3D modeling: surface modeling,However, innovative digital

03 – Digital Production/Fabrication

Branko Kolarevic