After successful completion of the course, students are able to devise an architectural “design” problem into solvable sub-problems and, if necessary, to develop a solution strategy by using algorithms. The students acquire the ability to analyze and solve single phases of a design process from the viewpoint of simplification and/or optimization using self-developed programs (scripts). The focus is not on the specific implementation (i.e. programming/scripting e.g. in Grasshopper or NetLogo), but on the development of a storyboard that defines the solution strategy.
This year's planning task is the design of habitat on the moon or on Mars. This means paying attention to transport options, weight, and costs as well as to self-sufficiency in the construction stage and in the final state.
The design studio "To the stars" deals with habitats on the moon or on Mars. Apart from transport and the possibility of using resources on-site, the separation of inside and outside in a hostile environment is of particular importance.
Due to the distance to the "safe" earth, the central challenge lies in the sustainable use of resources, i.e. a sophisticated supply and disposal management. The question arises to what extent architecture can help to achieve such a goal. Individual aspects include energy supply, circulation (especially with regard to a structure that allows growth), food production, supply with water, disposal, or evacuation options.
Students should pick out one or more aspects and work out a solution where architecture supports the problem-solving. Algorithms that simulate circulation and display overlaps, for example, can be helpful. It is also possible to deal with the arrangement of functions – from system maintenance to leisure time. A verification takes place within the framework of a fictitious and not real environment. This means that the focus is not on the realization, but on dealing with special conditions.
The design studio is divided into the following parts:
- Analysis of a fictional habitat on the Moon or Mars (functions)
- Development of an algorithm for an aspect of the designing process
- Draft based on the research
The findings from the analysis phase serve as the basis, taking into account the different functions, especially with regard to a space-saving overlaps or to spatially necessary separations. An algorithm (storyboard) should be developed that, for example, optimizes processes, checks design variants, or defines the shape directly.
