The application of topological geometry to the architectural concept design process in the flow of digitalization

Thuy, N T M and Thi, N D (2022) The application of topological geometry to the architectural concept design process in the flow of digitalization. International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation, 40(3), pp. 422-440. ISSN 23984708

Abstract

Purpose: The paper aims to research the applications of topological geometry to the architectural concept design process and their combination with the modern digital technology to find novel architectural spaces and forms which are dynamic, easily adaptable to the context and surroundings. Design/methodology/approach: The article uses the method of studying the existing literature on topological geometry and architectural design theory including design thinking, architectural design methods and architectural compositions to analyze and compare them with architectural practices and suggest new topological design tools and methods. Moreover, the paper tests the proposals with a number of preliminary design research experiments. In addition, graphic design software, parametric design, building information modeling (BIM) and digital development trends in architecture were explored and experienced to reveal the application potential of topological design thinking and methods in the trend of architectural digitization. Findings: The paper has analyzed, synthesized and systematized the basic theories of topological geometry in order to clarify their applications in the architectural concept design process. On that basis, the paper proposes a novel topological design thinking and method for finding rich diversified architectural ideas and forms based on original invariant design constraints. Finally, the paper clarifies the combination as well as the mutual, motivating relationship between topological geometry and modern digital technologies when applied to architectural design. Originality/value: The research contributes a novel design thinking and method based on topological geometry combined with modern digital technology to the architectural design theory. It will be a valuable tool capable of suggesting architects how to think and innovate in architecture in the era of industrial revolution 4.0.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: architectural concept design process; BIM; digital architecture; topological architecture; topological geometry; topological method; topological thinking
Index terms: digital technology, architectural design, preliminary design, methodology, experiment, proposal, digitalization, architectural practice, architect, concept design, parametric design, building information modelling, geometry
Subjects: digital technology, project planning, mathematical modelling, business, profession, data collection methods, design methods, computing systems, information systems, research methods, design practice, design process
Topics: Roles and Professions, Business Strategy, Research Practice, Project Management, Design Practice, Digital Applications
Descriptive scope: 5 PCTEA

N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here