Bridging the Divide Between Design and Reality in Student Design Builds in Increasing Accessibility to Emerging Technologies

Abstract

Architectural education is historically rooted in Vitruvius’ teachings of durability, utility, and beauty - adopted from his text “Ten Books on Architecture” which still hold relevance to modern architectural theory. Throughout the evolution of architecture, the need for feasibility has grown. The divide between architecture and built construction has since questioned the vision versus reality of what is constructed. The rapid development of architecture is rooted in its synthesis of materials and methods through technologies. From construction techniques of rebar within reinforced concrete to the formal generation of iconic architecture using computational design, architecture is the manifestation of cultural aspirations. Visionary architecture has expanded mediums from discrete imagery to digital experiences that immerse users mobilized by the growing innovations in visualization techniques and tools. While the illustrative techniques of visualization have begun to blur the vision between reality and fiction, it is the responsibility of the architect to utilize the tools to bring the ideas to built reality. Whereas traditional procedures of mandated licensure or obtainment of a degree open the opportunity to bring ideas to reality, contemporary pedagogy makes the possibility well before requirements of these milestones. Architecture students today have access to emerging technologies that are instrumental in the design, visualization, detailed fabrication, and delivery of a project well before the completion of their undergraduate degrees. This paper presents a case study at Canada’s largest accredited architectural program demonstrating the range of accessible technologies for students to apply their design ideas into built reality using parametric modelling, virtual reality, augmented reality, and digital fabrication. The authors posit that this accessible agency provides confidence and comfort in closing the divide between architecture and construction.