But what is generative design? Put simply, generative design is a computer-based design method where the end product is generated by an algorithm. Among the numerous benefits of the practice are the fact that generative designs are parametric and that numerous design iteration can be explored by simply tweaking a designs input components.
So, what do the result of generative design look like?
Essentially, generative designs have a very organic look. They seem to mimic the patterns, symmetry and the seemingly chaotic growth found in nature. One of the most dramatic and stunning examples that I’ve seen was on display at the last Venice Carnival, one of the world’s oldest and most elaborate costume parties.
Generative Design Lab, Do The Mutation, created a series of masks that were formed specifically for the users face. According to the group, “People’ faces are scanned [by] a sensor and acquired in a digital environment. The software application written by [our] designers generates customized masks for each person. The masks are produced as unique pieces through 3D printing [using] WINDFORM materials.”
As generative design becomes adopted by more architectural and design practices across the globe, conception of what architecture and products “should” look like is likely to change dramatically.
Images Courtesy of WindForm