WHAT IS PARAMETRIC ARCHITECTURE?

SMC2, as a specialist in the design and construction of covered sports and leisure structures, masters the art of the textile membrane. For unique projects, our team has enriched its know-how by mastering parametric architecture.

Parametric architecture in a few words

Definition

Parametric design is an innovative approach to digital design, thanks to the possibility of generating complex geometric shapes by exploiting a large amount of data, whether environmental, acoustic, structural, social or urban. As Aurélie Simone, a specialist in parametric design, puts it: “Parametric architecture is an innovative design method using CAD software based on algorithms. It allows the creation of complex and new forms or structures, in a simple and optimised way, while ensuring their feasibility.

Origins

The notion of parametric architecture – also called parametric design – is quite recent. It was propelled by the emergence of digital tools and 3D software. It has revolutionised the stylistic references and representations of traditional architecture by offering architectures the possibility of proposing free, non-standard forms and complex structures.

The term “parametric” comes from mathematics. It refers to parametric equations that use a number of parameters and variables.

Traditional modelling VS parametric modelling

To quote Aurélie Simone again, traditional design methods consist of “adding up elements of the project to create a whole. During the development of the project, technical constraints are added. The parametric approach, on the other hand, goes much further. It is about “defining the relationship between the elements that will create the whole and the identity of the project”.

The DNA of the parametric concept is the algorithmic system. If the constraints and parameters change then the result adapts while remaining true to the DNA.

The benefits of parametric design

Parametric architecture allows for creative freedom. It allows you to add a strong architectural signature to your creations, by proposing complex shapes and providing an answer to various needs sometimes subject to precise constraints. Modelling can be easily adapted to potential changes in the project. Finally, parametric architecture allows an optimisation of the use of materials and thus grants a better control of costs.

An example of parametric architecture by SMC2

Thanks to the parametric method, SMC2 was able to design and build a unique textile façade for the Mon Grand Plaisir shopping centre in Plaisir in the Yvelines. The textile architecture allowed the creation of fluid and aerial forms. The shopping centre thus stands out from other buildings by becoming a fine example of contemporary architecture. The result is artistic, pure and slender. The project was completed in a timely and cost effective manner by combining digital tools with the artistic skills of the architects in charge of the project.