This seminar aimed to explore methods of generative design through the use of Grasshopper (Visual scripting interface for Rhinoceros). Students learned modeling techniques in Rhino understanding the difference between using NURBS and meshes. NURBS describe the basic properties of curves and surfaces that are represented in rhino as a 3-D geometry which can provide flexible ‘play’ of complex form making. Meshes are much simpler in how much information they hold allowing them to be useful for more precise heavy modeling. Grasshopper then was used to drive large quantities of geometry through data structures.

The seminar's focus was on developing component based envelopes that respond to a theoretical context. Students developed an understanding of how to organize lists and data trees to create relationships between those components. The intent of building small scale relationships is to allow a bottom-up design process to guide and investigate larger scale emergent order phenomenons. This investigation leads to an iterative decision process of solving a design problem without preconceiving a prescriptive solution. Topics of paneling, surface interpolation, surface mapping and mesh subdivision were covered.