ARCH 420 - Introduction to Shape Grammars

Institution:

Catholic University of America

Subject:

Architecture

Description:

This subject introduces a computational or generative approach to design using shape grammars. Shape grammars were one of the first, and remain one of the few, computational design systems that are wholly visual, rather than textural or numerical. They provide a powerful means for design analysis and synthesis, for design exploration, for generating novel design solutions, and understanding design language. Rules are developed to compose and describe architectural and other designs. The class covers topics such as shapes, shape arithmetic, symmetry, spatial relations, shape computations, and shape grammars. It focuses on the application of shape grammars in design language research, design analysis and creative design via computation. This class teaches shape grammars fundamentals through hands-on exercises and discusses issues related to practical applications of shape grammars. The basics of shape grammars wil be introduced through lectures and through in-class, by hand exercises with simple abstract shape grammars. A range of applications from stylistic analysis to creative design will be explored. Computer programs for shape grammars will be presented. Readings will supplement lectures.

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.cua.edu

Phone Number:

(202) 319-5000

Regional Accreditation:

Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Semester

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