ARC3205H S
Instructors: Matthew Spremulli, Hali Larsen
Meeting Section: L0101
Thursday, 6:00PM - 9:00PM

Generative Design represents a definitive shift in the practice of how to conceptualize, design, fabricate, and build. At its core, Generative Design is a strategy that augments human capabilities and leverages the power of computation for guided design iteration. The practice leverages algorithms and automation while closely coupling design logic with explicit and measurable goals. The tools that support this emerging practice can be leveraged to either optimize or explore a vast design-space with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence.

This course will introduce Generative Design specifically as it applies to the domain of Architecture (and architectural details) - including the concepts, workflows, and toolkit needed to incorporate GD ‘studies’ into a design practice. These aspects will be delivered in a hybrid format, combining theoretical lectures, with hands-on workshops, readings, exercises, and guest lectures.

Students will apply their learnings towards a final architectural project, where both an overall design and detail will be developed using Generative Design technology. There will be an emphasis on how to communicate and visually represent the use of AI in design with different audiences, which will include physically prototyping a final detail. Based on an international design competition, the final project will give students the option to develop their final project towards a submission entry.

To complete course work, students are expected to be comfortable with computational design technology (including visual programming and parametric design). Students will work in pairs to experiment with generative design while working individually on the creation of artifacts (both physical and digital) that represent their creative stance on including AI in architectural design.