My Connection with Parametric Design

My fascination with parametric and generative design tools such as Grasshopper arises from my deep-seated curiosity about the intricacies of natural self-organising systems, whether they are materials or biological systems. This curiosity extends to diverse natural phenomena like the formation of sand dunes, the ebb and flow of sea waves, the delicate patterns of cloud formation, the captivating shapes of soap bubbles, or the arrangement of leaves around a stem. My intrigue also spans to larger scale patterns found in the cultural, societal, and behavioural interactions with various spaces. What ties all these systems together is the fundamental role of mathematics in their generation. We rely on mathematics and rational logic as tools to unravel the mysteries behind their formations, allowing us to expand our design repertoire into uncharted territories.

The concept of parametric design goes beyond the simplistic notion of merely creating gradients that are producible solely through digital fabrication, as it is often perceived. Such a narrow interpretation fails to capture the depth of this concept and its potential applications. Instead, it involves delving into the inherent relationships within complex systems. For example, pyramids can be viewed through a parametric lens, as can Gothic architecture and Gaudi's masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia. Even though Gaudi may not have explicitly employed mathematics in his architectural endeavours, we've spent years uncovering the mathematical underpinnings of his creations to decipher the DNA he employed in his designs. This is precisely why I hold a profound appreciation for mathematics. It provides us with abstract formulas that serve as a rational framework for comprehending the intricacies of natural systems. Grasshopper, in turn, serves as a valuable tool in our quest to achieve this understanding.