Course content

The course is an introduction to parametric modeling applied in design and analysis of buildings and structures. The topic includes traditional methods for "form-finding" based on structural performance as well as more freeform design. The primary tools are Rhino 3D and Grasshopper 3D for parametric modeling, Karamba3D for structural analysis, and physical models. The course aims to provide basic understanding of the relationships between structural concepts and the shape of buildings and the application of physical and digital models to study this.

Learning outcome

GENERAL COMPETENCE:

The course will provide an overview of the relationships between structural concepts and explicit shapes/forms of buildings as well as physical and digital tools for studying this.

KNOWLEDGE:

After completing the course, the students will have practice- based knowledge about how to develop and analyze structural concepts by means of physical models such as "hanging-chain models" and "minimal-surface models" and about applying digital models linking architectural evaluation of forms with structural analyses typically by finite element modelling.

SKILLS:

The students will be able to apply digital and physical models for designing and analyzing structural concepts as an integrated part of architectural form.

Learning methods and activities

The instruction consists of four main parts:

1. Introduction to software for parametric modeling.
2. Introduction to some construction-based "form-finding" methods.
3. Application of this in tasks to generate shapes/volumes and simple construction elements.
4. A design project where architectural form concepts are examined and developed integrated with construction solutions. This design project is carried out by architecture and engineering students in collaboration.

This course is offered to incoming exchange students and will be taught in English if necessary

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

Courses and personal interest in design of buildings and structures, from NTNU master program in architecture or from NTNU master program i bygg- og miljøteknikk (regrading the latter: students from structural engineering in particular). Experience and interest in digital parametric modelling is favorable but not a condition.

Required previous knowledge

The course is open for students who have completed the third year of NTNU master program in Architecture, students who are enrolled in NTNU master program in Sustainable architecture, and for students in NTNU master program in Civil and Environmental Engineering that are enrolled in the course "Introduction to Architectural Design for Engineers" (AAR4208) and thereby in NTNU Minor in Architecture for Engineers.