From Model to Code

Cultural Design Techniques in the Age of Data

Image: “total city” by Fritz Haller, 1975, gta Archive, ETH Zurich

 

The first perspective focuses on the history and theory of instrumental design knowledge in architecture. While in architecture, physical models are still regarded as an essential medium of knowledge production, there has been an ever-widening spectrum of computational methods for discussion for some time now. Data influences the production of architecture – whether as design tools, techniques of visualization or environmental simulation, systems of fabrication or management, and optimization of complex building processes. To develop a sovereign position for architecture, a critical examination of the creative, social and political potential of these technologies is becoming increasingly important.