The ASCAAD 2021 theme is dedicated to the ARCHITECTURE IN THE AGE OF DISRUPTIVE TECHNOLOGIES – Transformation and Challenges. The theme focuses on addressing the paradigm shift due to computational design gradually renouncing the typical morphogenetic-centered associations in the architectural discourse. Participants are encouraged to identify visions and challenging aspects such as: from the tangible to the intangible, from the physical to the phenomenological, from mass production to mass customization, from the artifact-centered to the human-centered, and from formalistic top-down approaches to informed bottom-up approaches. This imminent shift of focus is increasingly stirring a debate in the architectural community and is provoking a much needed critical questioning of the role of computation in architecture as a sole embodiment and enactment of technical dimensions, into one that rather deliberately pursues and embraces the humanities as an ultimate aspiration.
Topics: 1) Human-Centered Computation • Design Cognition • Creative Design Concepts and Theories • Human-computer interaction • Machine learning & deep learning in architecture 2) Emergent Modes of Learning • Virtual Learning Environments • New Modes of CAAD Learning • Design Education • Interactive Media and Visualization 3) Architectonic Languages • Generative and Parametric Design • Shape and Motion Grammars • Responsive and Interactive Architecture • Rapid prototyping and digital fabrication • Design-to-Robotic Production • Programmable and Smart Materials 4) Technology Integration and Collaboration • Building Information Modeling (BIM) • Computer-Supported Design Collaboration • Virtual/Mixed Reality • IoT, Cloud Computing and Digital Twinning 5) Computational Enculturation • Adoptable Built Environments • Smart Cities • Digital Heritage • Digital Architectural Humanities