A PARAMETRIC PHENOMENOLOGY: Implementation of Multi-Sensory Experience in Parametric Architecture

Abstract

Parametric design tools are representationally revolutionary in contemporary architecture and opened up new possibilities in realizing the architect’s imagination. Patrik Schumacher describes ‘parametricism’ as a dynamic system that has become a new ontology. He states “Parametricism is the way we do urbanism and architecture now” (Schumacher 2009). In contrast, Wassim Jabi, in response to ACADIA discussion on digital design in 2007, highlights the emerging problem of “oversubscription of parametric,” which has resulted in a visually oriented work with emphasis on randomly generated design. Such approaches in architectural design would eventually lead to the point where “form follows fashion rather than function” (Jabi 2007). Even though parametricism evolves from complex algorithms, the manipulation of those algorithms in parametric design primarily revolves around form-finding process that causes the loss of experiential qualities and eliminates the human existential dimensions. Therefore, integration of phenomenology in the parametric design process is a necessary step for the future generation of architecture. The purpose of this thesis is to discover the possibility of parametric design beyond aestheticism and formalism by incorporating phenomenological elements that would essentially enhance implementation of experiential sensations in the design.