Artificial Morphogenesis: The Guangzhou Tower Delta Studio

Abstract

In this article we use the Guangzhou Tower Delta Studio as a case study to discuss novel parametric urban design processes for the ecological development of new urban settlements. Conventional master plans typically propose a single static ‘end’ condition (at best with a few intermediate phases) derived from top-down visions, often incapable of responding to site-specific microclimatic, topographical and cultural conditions. Frozen in an outmoded context, such strategies deliver ineffective planning in the short-term and require extensive recapitulation in the long-term. In our experimental research, we challenge traditional master plans and explore novel, morphogenetic processes for designing architecture and urban/landscape systems organically, by employing bottom-up, data-driven design strategies, consisting of a computational reading of the performative characteristics operating at a site, a parametric simulation of alternative urban developments over time, and a sculpting of landscape and building forms that address the simultaneous needs for environmental performance and typological invention.

Keywords

Morphogenesis / Computational Urbanism / Data-driven Design / Parametric Typologies

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

Higher Education Press