**Computational design** is a design approach that uses computer-based tools, algorithms, and data processing to aid or automate parts of the design process. It allows designers—especially in fields like architecture, engineering, product design, and digital art—to create complex, efficient, and responsive designs that would be difficult or impossible to achieve manually. ### Key Features of Computational Design: 1. **Algorithmic Thinking**: Instead of drawing a shape manually, you define _rules_ or _formulas_ (algorithms) that generate the shape. 2. **Parametric Design**: You can change inputs (parameters) and automatically update the design—ideal for optimization and iterations. 3. **Generative Design**: The computer explores multiple design options based on your goals and constraints. 4. **Automation**: Repetitive tasks (e.g., layout generation, structural optimization) can be automated. 5. **Simulation and Analysis**: Real-time feedback based on performance metrics (e.g., energy efficiency, structural integrity). ### Common Tools and Languages: - **Grasshopper for Rhino** - **Dynamo for Revit** - **Processing, Python, C#** - **TouchDesigner, Houdini** (for digital media and interaction) ### Example Use Cases: - Generating facade patterns that respond to sun angles - Optimizing structural systems using fewer materials - Creating adaptive urban layouts based on pedestrian flows [[Computational design]], [[Algorithmic thinking]], [[Parametric design]], [[Generative design]], [[Automation in design]], [[Design simulation]], [[Performance-based design]], [[Architectural computation]], [[Digital design workflows]], [[Form generation algorithms]], [[Data-driven architecture]], [[Rule-based modeling]], [[Algorithmic modeling]], [[Parametric modeling]], [[Visual programming]], [[Grasshopper 3D]], [[Rhino 3D]], [[Dynamo for Revit]], [[Processing language]], [[Python scripting]], [[C# programming in architecture]], [[TouchDesigner]], [[Houdini FX]], [[Digital fabrication]], [[Design optimization]], [[Iterative design]], [[Adaptive systems]], [[Responsive design]], [[Architectural performance analysis]], [[Simulation tools in architecture]], [[Energy efficiency modeling]], [[Structural optimization]], [[Facade design]], [[Environmental analysis]], [[Solar-responsive design]], [[Data visualization in design]], [[Parametric workflows]], [[Computational creativity]], [[Machine learning in architecture]], [[AI-assisted design]], [[Digital architecture]], [[Computational logic]], [[Parametric geometry generation]], [[Design automation tools]], [[Performance simulation in design]], [[Architectural computation tools]], [[Generative algorithms]], [[Urban design computation]], [[Smart city modeling]], [[Pedestrian flow analysis]], [[Design intelligence]], [[Computational workflows]], [[Design iteration]], [[Sustainable design systems]], [[Digital form-finding]], [[Architectural data modeling]], [[Computational process design]], [[Parametric optimization]], [[Architectural algorithms]], [[Computational analysis]], [[Design scripting]], [[Advanced modeling tools]], [[Design evolution]], [[Emergent design systems]], [[Algorithmic design processes]], [[Parametric rule systems]], [[Computational thinking in architecture]], [[Architectural informatics]], [[Data-driven workflows]], [[Architectural innovation]], [[Digital design thinking]], [[Adaptive architecture]], [[Environmental performance design]], [[Design computation education]], [[Performance-based architecture]], [[Computational modeling]], [[Automation workflows]], [[Architectural visualization tools]], [[Architectural software]], [[Computational form generation]], [[Design iteration automation]], [[Performance-driven architecture]], [[Digital twin modeling]], [[Parametric environment modeling]], [[Architecture and computation]], [[Responsive architecture systems]], [[Architectural intelligence]], [[Computational design methods]], [[Architecture and technology integration]], [[Complex geometry modeling]], [[Generative systems in design]], [[Digital systems in architecture]], [[Computational architecture education]], [[Computational design in engineering]], [[Computational design in art]], [[Interactive media design]], [[Digital art algorithms]], [[Computational design philosophy]].