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Scripting

April 29, 2024

Generative Design & Standardized Typologies: Unlocking Innovation in the AEC Industry

Sofia Malmsten

CEO & Architect

The emergence of various design platforms for generative design within the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry signals a promising shift towards innovation. While these platforms share similar principles, each possesses unique strengths and possibilities. Primarily utilized in the early stages of design, they offer immense potential for creativity and efficiency.

However, our experience working extensively with Virtual Design and Construction (VDC), Building Information Modeling (BIM) strategies, and housing development has revealed a common trend among clients — they often have standardized solutions or developed products tailored to their needs.

Client specific design logic integrated in Hektar — the tool for generative design in early stages
Client specific design logic integrated in Hektar — the tool for generative design in early stages

By integrating these existing products into the realm of generative design and optimization, we unlock a wealth of data, empowering businesses to harness the full potential of generative design, AI, and automation while retaining ownership of their solutions.

This integration catalyzes a paradigm shift within the AEC industry towards product-oriented thinking, facilitating the early connection of production, sales insights, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), construction, and key performance indicators (KPIs). Essentially, it becomes a catalyst for holistic project development.

Illustratively, we present a collaborative project with an Austrian developer. Utilizing a predefined set of hotel rooms, student apartments, and residential units, alongside a comprehensive design manual outlining unit combinations, we developed an algorithm for automated configuration based on user goals, constraints, and preferences.

This approach enables the consideration of local regulations, market-specific constraints, and technical aspects directly within the model. For instance, in addressing the 3D puzzle of unit configurations, our algorithm optimized building structures by factoring in efficient shaft positioning, distribution requirements, slab height, construction standards, and zoning regulations.

We are continuously refining this approach to expedite customization processes. Our vision is to enable users to seamlessly integrate Hektar with their own standardized methods of configuring buildings, with architectural expertise remaining central to the process.

Stay tuned as we pave the way for innovation and efficiency in the AEC industry.