Shape Grammars for Creative Decisions in the Architectural Project

Joana Tching,Alexandra Paio,Joaquim Reis

doi:10.13189/csit.2017.050206

Abstract

Shape grammars (SG), which define a set of shapes, are used in applications in the field of Computational Creativity (CC). Computational Creativity can be considered an area of Artificial Intelligence (AI) that chases the goal of understanding creativity and building computational applications that emulate or support human creativity in Arts and Science. In this context, our aim is to show how SG may provide artists with applications to assist them in the creative process, not only creating solutions but also as a way of creating new ideas. Our objective is to demonstrate how, in architecture, SG can work with rules that will convey legal restrictions, space needs and goals of the architect, creating possible solutions to a project. A wide range of solutions can be tested in computational applications based in SG. These applications can also encourage the architect to go further in his creativity through shape emergence where the conditions are fulfilled and presented as innovative and/or unexpected. Architects obey strict rules when they apply artistic intention to a specific need/objective intention (space building). Thus, our methods are to enumerate SG as a tool for decision-making in architectural projects and to show a set of common phases that may be generated by the use of computational applications in response not only to technical needs but also to creative goals.

Highlights

Shape grammars are used in applications in the field of Computational Creativity (CC)
CC can be considered an area of Artificial Intelligence (AI) that chases the goal of understanding creativity and building computational applications that emulate human creativity in Arts and Science
Computational Creativity contributes to the artwork through new forms of interaction with digital information, producing effects that stimulate human perception and potentiate the artist's creativity, allowing the artist to obtain a wider range of new solutions [1]

Summary

Introduction

Shape grammars are used in applications in the field of Computational Creativity (CC). SG were conceived in the 70s by George Stingy and James Gips [2] and arose when AI was already studying different areas of knowledge and when the first graphic computational editor appeared [3]. This later can be considered the precursor of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) systems. Shape grammars are part of one area of knowledge called “Design Computing” or “Computational Design” They are production systems that allow the generation of compositions with shapes or designs [4]

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Methods

Conclusion