© ESARQ, Barcelona, 2014. All rights reserved.(Escola Tècnica Superior d’Arquitectura)Universitat Internacional de Catalunya (UIC)Inmaculada, 22, 08017-Barcelona, SpainTel. +34-932 541 800www.uic.es/esarq © Alberto T. Estévez, editor© 2nd International Conference Of Biodigital Architecture & Genetics© in all texts, projects and images, are owned by their authors

Cover photo: Alberto T. Estévez, Straw “still Alive”

This publication has its origin in the papers of the2nd International Conference ofBiodigital Architecture & Genetics,curated by Alberto T. Estévez, that was heldin Barcelona, from 4th to 6th June 2014.Thus, the order of appearance of the texts isthe same of the presentations in the Conference.

This publication has been made in the context ofthe Genetic Architectures Research Group fromthe Universitat Internacional de Catalunya.It is also part of the activities of theMaster’s Degree of Biodigital Architecturethat is leading the Group. This book owes itsgratitude to all who have collaborated on it andalso on the coordination of that conference:most especially to Oleg Kvashuk and Violetta Podets,as well as Diego Navarro, Leonor Toro and Dr. Judith Urbano.

Edited by Bubok Publishing S.L

Printed in SpainISBN papel: 978-84-686-5306-8ISBN digital: 978-84-686-5307-5Dep. leg. B 15381-2014

Alberto T. Estévez (ed.)

2nd INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OFbiodigital architecture & genetics

Alberto T. Estévez2nd International Conference Biodigital Architecture & Genetics

Alberto T. Estévez Learning from nature: Architecture and design in the first biodigital age

Dennis Dollens Autopoietic architecture

Alfons Puigarnau / Oleg Kvashuk / Violetta PodetsOut of the matrix of consciousness: Useful analogies for better understanding of algorithmic architecture

Pablo Lorenzo-Eiroa Form in form: The politics of digital representation

Fran Castillo Scripting the world

William Myers Biodesign

Pablo Baquero / Affonso Orciuoli Teaching strategies for digital fabrication

Molly Hogle / Albis del Barrio Capoeira’s heartbeat

Gernot Riether The nuit blanche pavilion

Yannis Zavoleas The nature of architecture

André Hamacher / Eirik Kjølsrud Growing floor plans and buildings

INDEX

6

8

24

38

54

66

74

86

98

106

118

130

Li Ning The generation of digital architecture form

Chengde Wu / Mark J. Clayton / Wei Yan Implementing behaviors for generative design

Tania Tovar / Juan Carlos Espinosa Actio-reactio: reactivity and the principles of reactive Architecture

Susannah Dickinson / Sheehan Wachter: Cellular noise: an installation using biomimetic principles

Michael Bunch The golden star structural system: Natures geometry in architecture

Elif Erdoğan / Arzu Gönenç Sorguç Transcoding cactus performance into built environment

João Ventura Lopes / Alexandra Paio Self- generated urban networks through digital physical simulation

Mostafa R. A. Khalifa / Radwa Fahmy Bio-form in parametric urban generative algorithms

Liss C. Werner Clarifying the matter

Pau Ginés i Sànchez On-line implementation of generative design methods to create custom furniture

Kostas Grigoriadis Material blends

Lila Panahi Kazemi / Andrea Rossi Self-assembly neighbourhoods

Elif Belkıs Öksüz Embedding the allometric principles to digital morphogenesis

Diego Navarro Evolutive algorithms

Kaveh Allahdin Feasibility of applying neural network in architectural design

Milos Raonic The central green market

Esmeralda López García Contextualized Skins

Maria João de Oliveira / Vasco Moreira Rato Cork’ews

Frederico Fialho Teixeira Specificity in morphogenetic design

Iasef Md Rian / Mario Sassone / Shuichi Asayama Structural characteristics of nature

Adriana Lima Topological surface and digital fabrication: a generative approach

María Mallo / Miguel Vidal / Javier Santamaría Efficient Irregular Tessellations

142

154

162

168

178

188

196

208

218

234

246

256

266

280

288

302

308

320

332

344

362

374

Alberto T. EstévezConference Chair

2nd INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF BIODIGITAL ARCHITECTURE & GENETICS

6

When some years ago we opened the 1st International Conference of Biodigital Architecture and Genetics, we were urged by a dark horizon, about the entire planetary subsistence. In this 2nd International Conference of Biodigital Architecture and Genetics the urgency is no less big. We will have to fight every time more and more for the minimum conditions of dignity in human existence, at the same time that we feel a cultural pressure for a correct adaptation to new times to configure systematically the world that humans needs for today.

Truly, the question is not a simple caprice, neither an intellectual necessity, neither only sensibility for losing less favoured people: now, the question is a global necessity, without reservations of classes, races or religions. As we declared some years ago, the whole planet is in front of danger of no-sustainability for all mankind. And by chance, now in this crucial moment, new techniques of an enormous potential are offered: biological and digital techniques. And even a fusion of both, in something that can be named biodigital architecture. It has incorporated the advantages proportioned by the understanding of genetics in both ways, the biological and the digital way, that permit to face with hope some continuity also worthy, but this time for the dignity for everybody.

Then, we are in front of the challenge of creating the future tradition of biodigital and genetics. For this it is necessary that people work on three key elements: research, teaching and profession. This is exactly what we have been doing in Barcelona from 2000, with the Genetic Architecture Research Group and Ph.D. Programme, with the Biodigital Architecture Master’s Degree and with the Genetic Architectures Office. There we learn & teach, we make research and we design: knowing that there are sufficient differential parameters to predict a complete age’s change. Today, in the middle of the second decade of our new Century, it is time to explain, to check, to discuss fascinations, inspirations, experiences, that interested people on this topics have done in the developing of this biodigital architecture and genetics, up to now.

Barcelona, Spring 2014

7

THE NATURE OF ARCHITECTURE

Yannis Zavoleas

The Nature of Architecture

The biodigital analogue informing performance

Dr. Yannis Zavoleas1

1The University of Newcastle Australia 1http://www.newcastle.edu.au/profile/y-zavoleas, http://www.yzarch.wordpress.com 1Y.Zavoleas@newcastle.edu.au

Abstract. Initially driven by the general aim to discuss the analogies between biology and architecture, this essay compares the concept of performance as it applies in these two fields. Performance is approached along with related terminology such as metabolism and function. It further evokes historical precedents of interdisciplinary research dated since the early days of modernism, mainly applied for the development of systems. Systems are recently brought into attention along with the appointment of digitally-based methods set for analysis, rule defining, dynamic simulation and composition. In reflection of the above, this essay addresses biology's influences in architecture in three main areas. These are stated as a recurring interest in structuralism, the primacy of behavior over aesthetics and the generative aspect of design. Keywords. Performance; metabolism; behavior; functionality; bio-structuralism.

Introduction Since the early days of modernism, the biological theme has enriched architectural discourse with a set of insightful references concerning the design premises and the means these can be achieved. Such a broad reservoir of influences is connected with processes directed to actions carrying out specific tasks, further suggesting functional and utilitarian connotations (Hensel, 2009).

An updating of the analogies between biology and architecture goes along with the introduction of digitally-based techniques. Computation has aided in the development of new methodologies concerning data registration, analysis and manipulation towards the production of variations about form and also its material manifestation in more dynamic manners. One of the main applications of computation in the design process is to define and alike to evolve systems capable of collaborating with different factors at optimal levels. Such a task may be described as a general understanding of performance. Performance may aid in the development and the assessment of complex systems whose behavior is comparable to ones of organic nature. A system's desired properties such as agility, compliance and overall pertinence in delivering compound operations may be examined with advanced digital tools simulating its behavior.

There is no doubt that nature offers an exceptionally rich asset of knowledge to explore; but, after years of study even of fascination with biological references and after the related research has often been limited to skin-deep understandings of organic themes, we have reached a point where it is important to respond to key questions about biology's appointment to architecture, such as:

118

*preserved author’s typography

The Nature of Architecture

The biodigital analogue informing performance

Dr. Yannis Zavoleas1

1The University of Newcastle Australia 1http://www.newcastle.edu.au/profile/y-zavoleas, http://www.yzarch.wordpress.com 1Y.Zavoleas@newcastle.edu.au

Abstract. Initially driven by the general aim to discuss the analogies between biology and architecture, this essay compares the concept of performance as it applies in these two fields. Performance is approached along with related terminology such as metabolism and function. It further evokes historical precedents of interdisciplinary research dated since the early days of modernism, mainly applied for the development of systems. Systems are recently brought into attention along with the appointment of digitally-based methods set for analysis, rule defining, dynamic simulation and composition. In reflection of the above, this essay addresses biology's influences in architecture in three main areas. These are stated as a recurring interest in structuralism, the primacy of behavior over aesthetics and the generative aspect of design. Keywords. Performance; metabolism; behavior; functionality; bio-structuralism.

Introduction Since the early days of modernism, the biological theme has enriched architectural discourse with a set of insightful references concerning the design premises and the means these can be achieved. Such a broad reservoir of influences is connected with processes directed to actions carrying out specific tasks, further suggesting functional and utilitarian connotations (Hensel, 2009).

An updating of the analogies between biology and architecture goes along with the introduction of digitally-based techniques. Computation has aided in the development of new methodologies concerning data registration, analysis and manipulation towards the production of variations about form and also its material manifestation in more dynamic manners. One of the main applications of computation in the design process is to define and alike to evolve systems capable of collaborating with different factors at optimal levels. Such a task may be described as a general understanding of performance. Performance may aid in the development and the assessment of complex systems whose behavior is comparable to ones of organic nature. A system's desired properties such as agility, compliance and overall pertinence in delivering compound operations may be examined with advanced digital tools simulating its behavior.

There is no doubt that nature offers an exceptionally rich asset of knowledge to explore; but, after years of study even of fascination with biological references and after the related research has often been limited to skin-deep understandings of organic themes, we have reached a point where it is important to respond to key questions about biology's appointment to architecture, such as:

119

- What are the properties being inherent to the biological model that evoke themes of main architectural interest and how may such a transference occur in more meaningful ways?

- How has the biological model helped to readdress critical assumptions about architecture, especially with the introduction of digital tools to design?

In respect, this paper assesses biology's main references along with an updated account of performance and then it summarizes its influences in architecture, as these have largely been supported by the use of digital means.

From "Form Follows Function" to "Form Follows Behavior" In the recent history of architecture, there has been a recurring interest in studying the natural world, often leading to various interpretations of the biological analogue. In respect, Mertins (2009) draws upon an extensive list of related references applied to the broader field of building construction, dating since late nineteen century. An important figure of early modernism was Scottish biologist Geddes (1915), with research on sociology and the development of cities in analogy to biological processes. He specifically elaborated on the dynamic functions associated with the initial formation and the evolution of human settlements. He also went on to explore the interdependencies among the organizational patterns, the resources, the environmental factors, the flow of capital, the distribution of labor and the human needs in a society. The precedents present overall an interdisciplinary focus on biological themes profoundly linking transformative operations detected in nature to a range of human-based activities, essentially preparing the ground for today’s engagement between architecture and biology.

Such an appropriation of knowledge from biology to architecture has been more fruitful when it is not exhausted to mere morphological imitation. In fact, it is claimed that the benefits are very poor when the biological paradigm leads towards extravagant adaptations that fail to lend any of the more thoughtful lessons biology is capable of giving to the architectural discourse (Hensel, 2009; Costa, 2009). On the other hand, the study of biological references has been far more insightful especially when it focuses on the processes behind the forms, helping to launch architecture’s propensity to biology’s modal functions and procedures such as those related to the reproduction, the adaptation and the evolution of live organisms. During the 1960s, Doxiadis (1966) with his peer researchers from various fields studied human settlements as compound biological systems forming aggregations in constant energy flux [Fig. 1]. Doxiadis presented the analogies between man-made systems and organic ones found in nature. The significance of such organic approaches in architecture relies on the fact that biological functions are factually defined upon the assumption that an organic being is not seen in isolation, but as part of a broader ecosystem. Consequently, the biological functions are solutions whose vitality is constantly tested by the environment: if they are advantageous, the organism will survive, increasing the incidence of these characteristics of adaptability in a given population (Costa, 2009), or, else, it is destined to extinction.

Seen through the above prism, the biological model is compared to an engineer's view. An engineer would roughly describe the biological processes of interaction between a live organism and its environment as a set of mechanical operations supporting an exchange of energies between two or more systems. Such operations generally involve a series of transformations between matter and energy. These operations are termed as

metaorgametasurvavoiwastat a funcwithdiffiadvaconnunsusysteto dspecopendefincomandOveits ea poby p

FigurConst

Athe aorgacharmorlogicdefin

abolism. Thanism and abolic funct

vival involvids decay aste. Waste, agiven mom

ctions. Wasth frequent diculty of oanced systenected withuspected byem is able t

different concial requiremn to the prosning charac

mbining oppchance, clo

erall, metaboenvironmentolyvalent sumpre-establish

re 1 tantine Doxiadi

Accordinglyadaptation oanisms, theracteristics, rphology as c. Adaptatinition of the

he aim of mits environtions are not

ves more thas it is able toapart from iment are in te may first

disadvantageoptimizationms have shh their capy the individto metaboliznditions as ment relatedspect of formcteristics ofosite conduoseness andolic functiont, ones that m of forces

hed patterns

is, 1966. Approx

y, the impleof metabolice principles

essentiallya result of

ions of the e underlying

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a dormant t appear as es, such as n (Costa, 2hown enormpacity to crdual and coze types of eit reaches nd to metabming new syf metabolicuct set as dd openness, ns introduceare primari

s of either ex of behavior

ximations of cit

ementation c functions s of form y causing evolutionarbiological

g structural

is to supporthus to may described nement of prder out of mmeaning, m

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2009). Yet,mous import

reate emergonsequentlyenergy beingnew states olism, one ynergetic re behavior a

dipoles, suchor perfect

e a dynamicly suitable fxternal or inr.

ties growing dyn

of the biolointo man-mmay be adsymmetry

ry processesmodel to

rules in sup

rt the symbiaintain balaas mere rep

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y to evolveg previouslyof efficiencthat is sati

elations in thare not alwh as determclock and pc set of respfor describinternal caus

namically as bio

ogical modmade systems

ddressed iny-breaking s (Frazer, 1design wou

pport of form

iotic relatioance betweepetitive onesnes. A livinrocesses genlude all of tntified in ren actions anose control elated to thaste’s indireomena of l(Costa, 200

y foreign to cy. It followisfied as thehe future (H

ways easy tminism and perfect clouponses betwing, comparse, even tho

ological organi

el in designs. As it happn relation tand an u995) expresuld thus bem's organic n

nship between them. Ins, especiallyng organismnerally referthese featureelation to dind it is assoand the res

he adaptatiect output, mlarge popul09). As sucit and so to

ws that there system re

Hensel, 2009to describe,chaos, pred

ud (Corco, 2ween a systering and assose not carri

isms.

n would focpens with thto its behaunderstandinssing form'se more abonature [Fig.

een an n fact, y when

m often rred as es that iscrete

ociated sulting ion of mainly lations ch, the o adapt re is a emains 9). The often

diction 2009).

em and sessing ied out

cus on he live avioral ng of s inner out the . 2].

120

- What are the properties being inherent to the biological model that evoke themes of main architectural interest and how may such a transference occur in more meaningful ways?

- How has the biological model helped to readdress critical assumptions about architecture, especially with the introduction of digital tools to design?

In respect, this paper assesses biology's main references along with an updated account of performance and then it summarizes its influences in architecture, as these have largely been supported by the use of digital means.

From "Form Follows Function" to "Form Follows Behavior" In the recent history of architecture, there has been a recurring interest in studying the natural world, often leading to various interpretations of the biological analogue. In respect, Mertins (2009) draws upon an extensive list of related references applied to the broader field of building construction, dating since late nineteen century. An important figure of early modernism was Scottish biologist Geddes (1915), with research on sociology and the development of cities in analogy to biological processes. He specifically elaborated on the dynamic functions associated with the initial formation and the evolution of human settlements. He also went on to explore the interdependencies among the organizational patterns, the resources, the environmental factors, the flow of capital, the distribution of labor and the human needs in a society. The precedents present overall an interdisciplinary focus on biological themes profoundly linking transformative operations detected in nature to a range of human-based activities, essentially preparing the ground for today’s engagement between architecture and biology.

Such an appropriation of knowledge from biology to architecture has been more fruitful when it is not exhausted to mere morphological imitation. In fact, it is claimed that the benefits are very poor when the biological paradigm leads towards extravagant adaptations that fail to lend any of the more thoughtful lessons biology is capable of giving to the architectural discourse (Hensel, 2009; Costa, 2009). On the other hand, the study of biological references has been far more insightful especially when it focuses on the processes behind the forms, helping to launch architecture’s propensity to biology’s modal functions and procedures such as those related to the reproduction, the adaptation and the evolution of live organisms. During the 1960s, Doxiadis (1966) with his peer researchers from various fields studied human settlements as compound biological systems forming aggregations in constant energy flux [Fig. 1]. Doxiadis presented the analogies between man-made systems and organic ones found in nature. The significance of such organic approaches in architecture relies on the fact that biological functions are factually defined upon the assumption that an organic being is not seen in isolation, but as part of a broader ecosystem. Consequently, the biological functions are solutions whose vitality is constantly tested by the environment: if they are advantageous, the organism will survive, increasing the incidence of these characteristics of adaptability in a given population (Costa, 2009), or, else, it is destined to extinction.

Seen through the above prism, the biological model is compared to an engineer's view. An engineer would roughly describe the biological processes of interaction between a live organism and its environment as a set of mechanical operations supporting an exchange of energies between two or more systems. Such operations generally involve a series of transformations between matter and energy. These operations are termed as

metaorgametasurvavoiwastat a funcwithdiffiadvaconnunsusysteto dspecopendefincomandOveits ea poby p

FigurConst

Athe aorgacharmorlogicdefin

abolism. Thanism and abolic funct

vival involvids decay aste. Waste, agiven mom

ctions. Wasth frequent diculty of oanced systenected withuspected byem is able t

different concial requiremn to the prosning charac

mbining oppchance, clo

erall, metaboenvironmentolyvalent sumpre-establish

re 1 tantine Doxiadi

Accordinglyadaptation oanisms, theracteristics, rphology as c. Adaptatinition of the

he aim of mits environtions are not

ves more thas it is able toapart from iment are in te may first

disadvantageoptimizationms have shh their capy the individto metaboliznditions as ment relatedspect of formcteristics ofosite conduoseness andolic functiont, ones that m of forces

hed patterns

is, 1966. Approx

y, the impleof metabolice principles

essentiallya result of

ions of the e underlying

metabolism inment and tt adequatelyan the refino set new orits explicit m

a dormant t appear as es, such as n (Costa, 2hown enormpacity to crdual and coze types of eit reaches nd to metabming new syf metabolicuct set as dd openness, ns introduceare primari

s of either ex of behavior

ximations of cit

ementation c functions s of form y causing evolutionarbiological

g structural

is to supporthus to may described nement of prder out of mmeaning, m

state, that an obstaclethe impossi

2009). Yet,mous import

reate emergonsequentlyenergy beingnew states olism, one ynergetic re behavior a

dipoles, suchor perfect

e a dynamicly suitable fxternal or inr.

ties growing dyn

of the biolointo man-mmay be adsymmetry

ry processesmodel to

rules in sup

rt the symbiaintain balaas mere rep

preset routinmarginal pray also inclis, not iden to commonibility of clo studies retance in wagent pheno

y to evolveg previouslyof efficiencthat is sati

elations in thare not alwh as determclock and pc set of respfor describinternal caus

namically as bio

ogical modmade systems

ddressed iny-breaking s (Frazer, 1design wou

pport of form

iotic relatioance betweepetitive onesnes. A livinrocesses genlude all of tntified in ren actions anose control elated to thaste’s indireomena of l(Costa, 200

y foreign to cy. It followisfied as thehe future (H

ways easy tminism and perfect clouponses betwing, comparse, even tho

ological organi

el in designs. As it happn relation tand an u995) expresuld thus bem's organic n

nship between them. Ins, especiallyng organismnerally referthese featureelation to dind it is assoand the res

he adaptatiect output, mlarge popul09). As sucit and so to

ws that there system re

Hensel, 2009to describe,chaos, pred

ud (Corco, 2ween a systering and assose not carri

isms.

n would focpens with thto its behaunderstandinssing form'se more abonature [Fig.

een an n fact, y when

m often rred as es that iscrete

ociated sulting ion of mainly lations ch, the o adapt re is a emains 9). The often

diction 2009).

em and sessing ied out

cus on he live avioral ng of s inner out the . 2].

121

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It follows tne the desiressed as in

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f any kind m. These agf a primitive

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2008), wherpport associators. In thef social strue's social imthat the desg with those

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ursive structurarganism/New Or

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y (Spuybroeig. 4] that iom analysisy produce v

dynamicalThe related

design tech

of pioneerine related resecy for the dravity. Late

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al transformatiorder, hosted by

gents of difergy upon aa pattern, ortive is not

ek, 2008) inis also receps, whose trvariations (Tlly to data

d processes mhniques," w

ng architectearch unfol

definition ofr, the inquirarchitects' rat various s

8). In more act and evo

ons. Project devUn-Built Event

fferent origian abstract r a branch o

frozen; it ntroducing cptive of theriggering inThompson, a by undermay be desc

where "the

ts and ded as f form ry was related scales, recent

olve in

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in that figure

of lines rather

certain e other nitiates 1917), rgoing cribed,

word

'assothe butagen

FigurNikolfrom

FigurI.Afenrules produZavol

Tarchstatigeomprob

ociative' focway these gwith a sen

nts making u

re 3 laos Michelis &bridges to plate

re 4 ntouli, K.Christset as algorithm

ucing a series ofleas with I.Syme

The integrahitecture oveic to dynammetric rulesblem (Trum

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Performative-Based Model Extending Functionality As a general estimate, the biological model has helped to further investigate on the set of behavioral properties describing performance in design. Performance refers to the outcome, as well as to the phases of its creation. In biological organisms, the vital operations and their supporting organs undergo processes of refinement and adaptation in regards to function, also to the purpose an organism serves as a system in the behavioral economy of larger systems to which it belongs (Hensel, 2009). A general sense of economy about systems and subsystems outlines the levels of efficiency about their processes, setting out the range between a minimum and a maximum point. Performance in architecture is commonly associated with functionality, a concept mainly addressed in the early proclamations of modern architecture based on the machine model (Zavoleas, 2013). Such an explanation of performance speaks about the optimal resolution of interrelated activities, as these are typically addressed in the plan drawing.

The definition of performance was clearly broadened after Second World War, as it turned out referring to competence at all scales, ergonomic design, material selection and usage, energy issues, construction methods and techniques, even aesthetics (Neufert, 1936 & 2000; Zavoleas, 2012 & 2013). In late 1960s, Gordon Pask borrowed the theory of Cybernetics, in order to develop the idea that architecture is a compilation of active systems and then, concepts associated with performance were extended under a cooperative manner among all parts involved. For example, the idea of the house as a machine for living in initially assumed that the house was essentially a tool whose sole purpose was to serve the inhabitant. Instead, Pask (1969) proposed to position the notion into the concept of an environment with and also in which the inhabitant cooperates, and so to emphasize on mutualism as compared with mere functionalism, further suggesting that functionalism could be usefully refined in a humanistic direction: "the functions, after all, are performed for human beings or human societies. It follows that a building cannot be viewed simply in isolation." In effect, Pask’s statement has helped to shape a definition of performance in design that is in tandem with the biological model. Performance ought to communicate all kinds of associations developed in any conjoint set of agents. It would also assume compatibility and efficiency in any form of energy exchange among them. Such an approach provides with precise descriptions about the agents in dynamic associations forming mechanisms and generating emergent phenomena (Holland, 1998). Performance is sought after all agents and their functions, whose effect may be measured along the course of design and adjusted according to its goals.

The above definition of performance is necessary in order to unravel the versatile affinities between architecture and biology especially under the digital scope. Taken from its meaning in biology, performance may consist of an inclusive concept in architecture too, one that renders the dynamic relationships between an entity and its environment. Computation further aids to describe biological functions and to apply them effectively to architecture, as in a DNA-like code [Fig. 7]. Advanced simulation software and scripting are used as generative tools [Fig. 8] for analyzing and integrating design as an extension of nature (Dollens, 2009). If we were to digitally express the organic behavior of a system in a reduced model, such a model would present a dual set of properties, often associated with optimization, in other cases with the ability to adapt to various operations, even to unpredictable ones.

124

biolobut aorgais noto houtcfinal

FigurYanniprodu

FigurV.CharespoI.Sym

ogical or coalso as the sanization duot to describhelp perceivcome of thisl geometry i

re 5 is Zavoleas, 201ucing a set of dif

re 6 airopoulou, R.C

onds to external meonidou, V.Stro

omputationaset of bounduring morphbe form in ave form ass process pris still rigid

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Charalampoudi,forces. Worksh

oumpakos, V.Pa

al form not odary constrahogenesis."an Euclidians a topologractically te, yet much m

ations of the cublages.

, N.Galouni, K.Shop AB-USE II, appas and D.Zis

only as the aints that acAs with the

n manner, bugical configuerminating wmore intellig

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Siska, Grid$, 20University of P

simopoulos.

description t as a local e biologicalut to set the uration [Fig

when the "figent than an

ursive duplicati

013. TopologicaPatras, Greece. I

of the fullyorganizing

l model, georules of its g. 6]. Form

fittest" solutny of the pre

ions and Boolea

al variations of Instructors: Yan

y developedprinciple foometry’s fugeneration a

m emerges tion is foundevious figur

an operations

f a grid structurennis Zavoleas w

d form, or self-unction and so as an

d. The res.

e that with

Performative-Based Model Extending Functionality As a general estimate, the biological model has helped to further investigate on the set of behavioral properties describing performance in design. Performance refers to the outcome, as well as to the phases of its creation. In biological organisms, the vital operations and their supporting organs undergo processes of refinement and adaptation in regards to function, also to the purpose an organism serves as a system in the behavioral economy of larger systems to which it belongs (Hensel, 2009). A general sense of economy about systems and subsystems outlines the levels of efficiency about their processes, setting out the range between a minimum and a maximum point. Performance in architecture is commonly associated with functionality, a concept mainly addressed in the early proclamations of modern architecture based on the machine model (Zavoleas, 2013). Such an explanation of performance speaks about the optimal resolution of interrelated activities, as these are typically addressed in the plan drawing.

The definition of performance was clearly broadened after Second World War, as it turned out referring to competence at all scales, ergonomic design, material selection and usage, energy issues, construction methods and techniques, even aesthetics (Neufert, 1936 & 2000; Zavoleas, 2012 & 2013). In late 1960s, Gordon Pask borrowed the theory of Cybernetics, in order to develop the idea that architecture is a compilation of active systems and then, concepts associated with performance were extended under a cooperative manner among all parts involved. For example, the idea of the house as a machine for living in initially assumed that the house was essentially a tool whose sole purpose was to serve the inhabitant. Instead, Pask (1969) proposed to position the notion into the concept of an environment with and also in which the inhabitant cooperates, and so to emphasize on mutualism as compared with mere functionalism, further suggesting that functionalism could be usefully refined in a humanistic direction: "the functions, after all, are performed for human beings or human societies. It follows that a building cannot be viewed simply in isolation." In effect, Pask’s statement has helped to shape a definition of performance in design that is in tandem with the biological model. Performance ought to communicate all kinds of associations developed in any conjoint set of agents. It would also assume compatibility and efficiency in any form of energy exchange among them. Such an approach provides with precise descriptions about the agents in dynamic associations forming mechanisms and generating emergent phenomena (Holland, 1998). Performance is sought after all agents and their functions, whose effect may be measured along the course of design and adjusted according to its goals.

The above definition of performance is necessary in order to unravel the versatile affinities between architecture and biology especially under the digital scope. Taken from its meaning in biology, performance may consist of an inclusive concept in architecture too, one that renders the dynamic relationships between an entity and its environment. Computation further aids to describe biological functions and to apply them effectively to architecture, as in a DNA-like code [Fig. 7]. Advanced simulation software and scripting are used as generative tools [Fig. 8] for analyzing and integrating design as an extension of nature (Dollens, 2009). If we were to digitally express the organic behavior of a system in a reduced model, such a model would present a dual set of properties, often associated with optimization, in other cases with the ability to adapt to various operations, even to unpredictable ones.

125

FigurYanni

FigurNikolarchi

Iarchenvispacdiffeflexirespsuppseeklevestrucrecomodcom

re 7 is Zavoleas, 201

re 7 laos Michelis &tectural space.

In respect, hitecture maironment ance. Performaerent functiibility for t

ponsiveness.ported by coking optimaels, from ancture capab

onfigured. Adel, being ab

mputational m

13. A nest struc

& Constantina TzDesign course

performanay interact nd the rangeance wouldions and scthe purpose . Then, thomputation l solutions nalysis to sble of hostiA new kindbout a quesmeans.

cture produced b

Tzemou. SimulatWeak Typologie

nce's signifwith data be of socio-c

d promote sycales, along

of overall e biologicawith an em(Costa, 200synthesis. Ming data and of bio-strt on organic

by rules set as r

tion of dynamic es, University of

ficance in being relatecultural influynergetic beg with a vagility tow

al model wmphasis on re09), still retaMethodolognd by whicructuralism c structures

repetitions and t

agents acting aof Patras, Greec

architectureed to functiouences of hehavior amo

varying degrwards a widewould talk ecursive opaining opengy is relatech this struis at hand produced g

transformations

as attractors andce. Instructor: Y

e is twofoonal compe

human activong the desree of specer range of

about theerations and

nness in all ed to the ducture is be

informed bgenetically t

s of a single ele

d repellers for dYannis Zavoleas

old. In prinetence, its nities and ph

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developmenteing dynamby the biolthrough adv

ement.

defining s.

nciple, natural hysical across versus global

process ntation arying t of a

mically logical vanced

The above utterance, apart from setting up provisional criteria about the outcome of architectural design, it also interferes with general assumptions about function, also with the appointed methodologies and strategies of development about a project. As it turns out, the biological model, being a polyvalent referent to performance in itself and having been studied extensively within the digital framing, prompts to pursue its analogies with the subject of architecture even further, in the areas roughly summarized as below.

Conclusion. Architecture's Performance, or the Biodigital Nature of Architecture The properties of the biological model that are of interest to architecture are those related to live organisms viewed as systems. An organism's survival depends on generative processes of adaptation and evolution being part of a larger ecosystem. The related functions describe an organism's metabolic behavior. Accordingly, an organism's form may be viewed as the result of generative processes associated with metabolism. The above characteristics have helped to redefine critical assumptions about architecture largely challenged by the digital processes, tools and techniques, in the following ways:

First, the comprehension of an architectural edifice as an organic system suggests a holistic approach to design, being less about the geometric definition of form and more about the interpretation of its qualities at a structural level. A quest on structures in architecture is reminiscent of late modern avant-garde studies on structuralism. Each element or unit is perceived in relation to a broader system. Such a view of the organic further reflects architecture's long-term conviction to align with socio-cultural ideologies through proposed modes of hierarchy, order and control, transferred to man-made space.

Second, architecture's organic behavior involves studying an edifice's performance as a metabolic entity. Metabolism in architecture may translate to functions related to energy efficiency and sustainability. It implicates virtually all sizes, from micro to macro and from material to architectural and the broader scale, as it also links the natural and the urban context together.

Third, the biological model presents preference to generative processes and the evolutionary character of design. Form-finding is introduced as a meticulous course involving recursive experimentation bringing up intermediary findings and assessment, gradually leading to more refined solutions. An interest on methodology has helped to build on architecture's affinity to science and its interdisciplinary profile; a set of challenges that has escalated with the fusion of computational means and techniques in each phase of the design process, especially those being about simulation, code definition, recursive operations, evolution and optimization.

In view of the above, it may be claimed that architecture's multifaceted relationship with biology steps upon an exploratory trajectory whose roots are dated in modernism. The biological model has helped to reintroduce significant themes of the architectural discourse in the present context, which have been overlooked for long and so to link again architecture with theories and findings of other sciences too, such as physics, material science, engineering, even sociology and political sciences. Finally, a major contribution of biology to architecture is that it has caused a surge of interest in advanced digital means and techniques, along with a drastic increase of awareness about design being a dynamic process that often involves setting up novel modes in creative research and pioneer practice.

126

FigurYanni

FigurNikolarchi

Iarchenvispacdiffeflexirespsuppseeklevestrucrecomodcom

re 7 is Zavoleas, 201

re 7 laos Michelis &tectural space.

In respect, hitecture maironment ance. Performaerent functiibility for t

ponsiveness.ported by coking optimaels, from ancture capab

onfigured. Adel, being ab

mputational m

13. A nest struc

& Constantina TzDesign course

performanay interact nd the rangeance wouldions and scthe purpose . Then, thomputation l solutions nalysis to sble of hostiA new kindbout a quesmeans.

cture produced b

Tzemou. SimulatWeak Typologie

nce's signifwith data be of socio-c

d promote sycales, along

of overall e biologicawith an em(Costa, 200synthesis. Ming data and of bio-strt on organic

by rules set as r

tion of dynamic es, University of

ficance in being relatecultural influynergetic beg with a vagility tow

al model wmphasis on re09), still retaMethodolognd by whicructuralism c structures

repetitions and t

agents acting aof Patras, Greec

architectureed to functiouences of hehavior amo

varying degrwards a widewould talk ecursive opaining opengy is relatech this struis at hand produced g

transformations

as attractors andce. Instructor: Y

e is twofoonal compe

human activong the desree of specer range of

about theerations and

nness in all ed to the ducture is be

informed bgenetically t

s of a single ele

d repellers for dYannis Zavoleas

old. In prinetence, its nities and ph

sign agents cialization vf local and e design pd experimenphases at v

developmenteing dynamby the biolthrough adv

ement.

defining s.

nciple, natural hysical across versus global

process ntation arying t of a

mically logical vanced

The above utterance, apart from setting up provisional criteria about the outcome of architectural design, it also interferes with general assumptions about function, also with the appointed methodologies and strategies of development about a project. As it turns out, the biological model, being a polyvalent referent to performance in itself and having been studied extensively within the digital framing, prompts to pursue its analogies with the subject of architecture even further, in the areas roughly summarized as below.

Conclusion. Architecture's Performance, or the Biodigital Nature of Architecture The properties of the biological model that are of interest to architecture are those related to live organisms viewed as systems. An organism's survival depends on generative processes of adaptation and evolution being part of a larger ecosystem. The related functions describe an organism's metabolic behavior. Accordingly, an organism's form may be viewed as the result of generative processes associated with metabolism. The above characteristics have helped to redefine critical assumptions about architecture largely challenged by the digital processes, tools and techniques, in the following ways:

First, the comprehension of an architectural edifice as an organic system suggests a holistic approach to design, being less about the geometric definition of form and more about the interpretation of its qualities at a structural level. A quest on structures in architecture is reminiscent of late modern avant-garde studies on structuralism. Each element or unit is perceived in relation to a broader system. Such a view of the organic further reflects architecture's long-term conviction to align with socio-cultural ideologies through proposed modes of hierarchy, order and control, transferred to man-made space.

Second, architecture's organic behavior involves studying an edifice's performance as a metabolic entity. Metabolism in architecture may translate to functions related to energy efficiency and sustainability. It implicates virtually all sizes, from micro to macro and from material to architectural and the broader scale, as it also links the natural and the urban context together.

Third, the biological model presents preference to generative processes and the evolutionary character of design. Form-finding is introduced as a meticulous course involving recursive experimentation bringing up intermediary findings and assessment, gradually leading to more refined solutions. An interest on methodology has helped to build on architecture's affinity to science and its interdisciplinary profile; a set of challenges that has escalated with the fusion of computational means and techniques in each phase of the design process, especially those being about simulation, code definition, recursive operations, evolution and optimization.

In view of the above, it may be claimed that architecture's multifaceted relationship with biology steps upon an exploratory trajectory whose roots are dated in modernism. The biological model has helped to reintroduce significant themes of the architectural discourse in the present context, which have been overlooked for long and so to link again architecture with theories and findings of other sciences too, such as physics, material science, engineering, even sociology and political sciences. Finally, a major contribution of biology to architecture is that it has caused a surge of interest in advanced digital means and techniques, along with a drastic increase of awareness about design being a dynamic process that often involves setting up novel modes in creative research and pioneer practice.

127