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Parametric design is used to create structures with free organic shapes and complex geometry.
Parametric design is the process of shaping by creating (programming) a mathematical algorithm (script).
It creates a mathematical model of a complex geometric object with multiple parameters, the alteration of which changes the configuration of individual elements or details and the interrelationships between them throughout the object.
One of the earliest examples of parametric design is the church of Santa Coloma de Cervelo by Antonio Gaudi. He created a pattern of strings loaded with weights in order to construct a complex vaulted ceiling formed by many different arches. By adjusting the position of the weights or the length of the strings, the shape of each arch is altered and the deformation of adjacent arches is influenced.
Over the last fifteen years, parametric design has become a leading trend in architectural and product design worldwide. Examples of 'parametric' buildings are available in the portfolio of all leading architectural practices. Frei Otto, Frank O Gehry, Greg Lin, Zaha Hadid, Koop Himelblau and others are considered to be the pioneers of contemporary parametric architecture.
Parametric design began to be thought and talked about in Bulgaria around 2010, after young Bulgarian architects had contact with English, Austrian and German universities that offered specialized training. There is no building in Bulgaria that has been completely designed with parametric methods. However, there have been numerous implementations of smaller-scale structures and individual architectural or design elements.
| TORNADO PAVILLION Experimental installation in urban environment 2012 Spatial construction made of cardboard/ ARCH+ Parametric Design Workshop |
Constructions
Parametric steel, reinforced concrete or timber structures are increasingly appearing worldwide. Buildings with such structural systems present unique volumetric solutions and design vision. In Bulgaria, such structural solutions are extremely rare and are counted on the fingers.
| Parametric spatial structure based on geodesic dome/ Design |
Suspended ceilings
One of the most large-scale applications of parametric design in this country is suspended ceilings. They are found in supermarkets, offices and showrooms. They are used as solutions for hiding installation systems, improving the acoustic performance of rooms as well as for purely decorative purposes. They give a "sculptural" and artistic feel to the space.
| Design |
Decorative wall panels
Parametric design also finds a variety of applications in the design of walls and screens. Loose surfaces and graphics composed of slats, perforated panels or decorative foil "break" the variety and participate in the creation of an expressive visual identity. They are often perceived as a work of art and are part of the artistic design of spaces.
| An acoustic wall panel in an office space - city of. Design |
Design elements
Some of the most attractive and original realizations of parametric design in our country are related to the production of unique product design, furniture and accessories. The possibilities for shapes and materials are limitless, and parametric furniture and details bring a boutique design feel and create an unusual and fabulous atmosphere.
| Bench in the Flora exhibition centre - town. Burgas/ Workshop for Parametric Design ARX+/ arch. Emil Burulyanov and Hristo Topchiev |
Elements of the urban environment
Examples of parametric design of elements of the urban environment are extremely interesting and surprising for the scale of Bulgaria. The original design, accompanied by the whimsical shapes and high-tech details help to enhance the quality and overall perception of our surroundings.
| Installation in urban environment - town. Varna | Gradksa fountain M!KA - gr. Varna / ARX+ Parametric Design Workshop |