Constructing computational models of nature for architecture: A case on transcoding the intelligence of cactus

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Tezin Türü: Yüksek Lisans

Tezin Yürütüldüğü Kurum: Orta Doğu Teknik Üniversitesi, Mimarlık Fakültesi, Mimarlık Bölümü, Türkiye

Tezin Onay Tarihi: 2012

Öğrenci: ELİF ERDOĞAN

Danışman: ARZU SORGUÇ

Özet:

The environment of knowledge exchange between computation and biology elicits a contemporary approach towards architecture. Computation, as an overarching mode of thinking, instructs the analysis, understanding and reinterpretation of the un-formal structure of natural organizations (such as systematic construct, information flow, and process through time) for architectural form generation. Consequently, the computing theory originates a mind-shift where processes, relations, and dependencies are a major concern for reconsidering and re-comprehending the environment. Besides, computation presents universal modes of thinking and tools for modeling, within which transdisciplinary studies and knowledge interchange between distinct disciplines are flourished. This thesis will discuss architectural form generation through interpreting computation as “transcoding” and an interface, while nature will be regarded as a “model” and a source for learning. A case study will be conducted by analyzing cactus plants and their common generative logic in the framework of computation. Consequently, the produced computational model of cactus plants will be scrutinized for probable outcomes, questioning what such a re-interpretation of natural systems may imply for architecture.