Subdivision surface modelling for architecture

This paper introduces research currently under development in the Digital Architectonics Research Group of the Department of Architecture & Civil Engineering at the University of Bath, UK. This research aims to develop a software framework for the application ofsubdivision surface techniques to the modeling of complex 3D building forms. By incorporating both structural and environmental optimization algorithms into the framework, a “concurrent engineering” approach is adopted, whereby information on the consequences of different design decisions is provided up-front. This results in a tool through which practicing engineers and architects can explore concepts in an informed manner, helping to steer their creativity towards designs with efficiency built-in. The paper introduces the basic software platform and goes on to describe the implementation of subdivision surface modeling, formfinding and optimization techniques. The benefits of combining these capabilities in a single tool are then demonstrated through a case-study, and the future direction of the research is discussed.