System mash-ups: emergent crafts and rule-based approaches to design and construction

Abstract

This paper will revisit the recent history of design and construction, scrutinizing—in parallel—conceptions of systemization and architectural craft. Within design and construction, technology is most commonly implemented to standardize processes; it is particularly dominant within management procedures. We will trace this domination from Vitruvius through to modern construction. We bring evidence to bear that suggests craft still remains a key constituent, particularly in our contemporary condition where technology is cheap, accessible and tunable. By looking at examples where craftsmanship manifests as the manipulation of a specific set of interactions between computing systems and software, this paper aims to provide observational evidence that prompts speculation of a return to the pre-enlightenment condition of architect as ‘homo universalis’. Where technology’s influence extends beyond systemization of design and construction, rather the ability to mash-up disparate systems and software becomes a key constituent of the designer’s process. Firstly we review the recent history of a rule-based approach to construction, starting with the early writing of Vitruvius through to more recent changes. This will include economic and technological developments that have influenced the current form of construction. Secondly, we will look at some of the recent initiatives that have been implemented to address the changing shape of the business and execution of construction; this will include methods of procurement and Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) such as panelized and volumetric construction. We review some current technological and collaborative developments in the design/making process that have been stimulated by technology and speculate as to their relevance within design and making. The findings challenge existing models for design and construction where technology is restricted to organizational management or digital fabrication; and draw attention to the influence of technology on the more arcane processes of creative practice.