Computational Design Techniques and Design Thinking

Course Description

Computation has a profound impact not only on industry and society, but also on our contemporary understanding of architectural form, space and structure. Computation has shifted the way in which architecture is conceived, produced, adopted and, ultimately, repurposed. Digital computation is enabled by the implementation of algorithms on a computer, which happens through programming languages. This is a fundamental property of computation as a technical achievement, but also as a theoretical framework for design. 

This seminar will lay the foundations for harnessing the potential of computation for architectural design and production. The course consists of three main parts:  

1. Introduction to Python, 
2. Introduction to Robotics, 
3. Algorithmic Design. 

In the first lectures, Visual Studio Code will be used as the code editor to learn Python. From week 5 onwards, Rhinoceros 8 ¹⁾ CAD software and its Grasshopper plug-in will be introduced. Throughout the seminar, participants will have access to a shared GitHub repository containing all developed Python scripts and Grasshopper definitions. 

By participating in this seminar, students will gain hands-on programming experience with Python, learn to use Git for version control and collaboration, and explore algorithmic form generation through the RhinoCommon API within Rhino and Grasshopper. They will be introduced to robot programming using KUKA robots and examine computational principles behind patterns in the physical world.

Lastly, students will develop skills to communicate computational design and code to varied audiences, use generative AI responsibly to enhance code robustness and transparency, and collaborate effectively in diverse and interdisciplinary groups. 

Teaching Mode

Lectures will be held weekly as in-person sessions and will focus on introducing new content, Q&A, troubleshooting, and discussion of weekly assignments. All lectures will be recorded and made accessible to participants via ILIAS.

Basic knowledge of Rhino and Grasshopper is a prerequisite. Both programs must be installed on students’ computers before the start of the semester. In addition, students are expected to have foundational experience with 3D printing as a method for materializing their final design projects.

The seminar will be conducted in English. The first class will take place on 14 October 2025.

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1) Students can begin the course using a 90-day evaluation version of Rhino 8. During the first weeks of the semester, there will be an opportunity to purchase a full Rhino license at an educational discount.