Digital fabrication in the architectural design process

Abstract

Digital fabrication is affecting the architectural design process due to the increasingly important role it has in the fabrication of architectural models. Many design professionals, professors, and students have experienced the benefits and challenges of using digital fabrication in their design processes, but many others in the field are not yet aware of the possibilities and drawbacks afforded by these technologies. The research presented here unveiled key issues on the matter through a series of interviews with twenty-five individuals, focusing on digital fabrication in their practices and schools, and through three experiments utilizing eight digital fabrication methods, such as three-dimensional printing, laser cutting, and desktop milling. The interviews and experiments form a basis for suggesting better ways to utilize current digital fabrication methods in design and for proposing future methods better suited for the architectural design process.