Technology and Architecture:

Throughout history, architectural practice has drastically changed due to technological advancements. New experiments and innovations always deeply impact architecture. From the Greek classical era, we see how intellectual advancements in mathematics, geometry, and proportioning made architecture more perfect in geometrical proportioning. In Gothic times, engineering advancements changed the look and overall height of architecture. In Byzantine architecture, advancements in dome construction altered the overall appeal of the architecture.

Present-day technological advancements also impact architecture, changing the overall approach to architectural practice and the role of the architect. Today, one of the most significant duties of architects is to collect data, which could be site-related, climatic, contextual, or related to user experience, and then act as a bridge between client expectations and that data.

Technologies are not only affecting the design phase of a building but also impacting the entire AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) industry. Technologies are integrated into every stage, from design to construction. Tools like Revit, Rhino, Grasshopper, etc., are used to create 3D virtual models, estimate costs, develop construction plans, calculate energy consumption, conduct building performance simulations, optimize designs based on data, and more. AR/VR/MR is utilized to evaluate buildings interactively and gather client feedback efficiently, while 3D printing is used to create design prototypes for real-world construction.

Advancements in manufacturing technology, computing power, digital visualization, and robotics are gradually and rapidly changing architecture. Here, we discuss ten such technologies:

Building Information Modeling (BIM):

BIM is a revolutionary technology for the AEC industry, allowing all necessary workforces, such as engineers, architects, estimators, clients, and others, to collaborate on a single platform. It reduces communication gaps and facilitates tasks from simple 3D model creation to construction plans and cost estimation. BIM tools enable architects to run numerous simulations on their projects for a clearer understanding of real-world effects. Renowned BIM-compatible software includes Revit, ArchiCAD, and Allplan.

Artificial Intelligence (AI):

AI excels at handling large-scale data, enabling architects to find efficient design solutions and optimize designs while considering materials and budget constraints. AI is also used in virtual work to facilitate client feedback.

AR/VR/MR:

Virtual reality replicates real spaces in the virtual world, allowing users to tour spaces through VR sets. AR overlays virtual images onto the real world, facilitating interactive evaluation of virtual plans with real-world sites. Mixed reality combines physical and virtual spaces and experiences.

Big Data:

Big data technology enables architects to handle large amounts of data, facilitating tasks such as replicating existing buildings, evaluating their health, and renovating. It also helps architects access unique data to create more efficient buildings.

Generative Design:

Generative design helps architects generate multiple design options simultaneously based on specific criteria, such as cost and energy efficiency, using scripts and revolutionary algorithms.

3D Printing:

3D printing technology allows architects to print almost any shape or form as needed, facilitating the creation of real-world houses with increasingly complex forms.

Cloud Computing:

Cloud computing enables architects to store data remotely, facilitating easier, faster, and more efficient data sharing among different professionals working on the same project.

Robotics:

Robotics provide precise construction capabilities essential for modern construction needs. Robots offer precision, speed, and accuracy, particularly in tasks that are risky or impossible for humans.

New Building Materials:

Technological advancements enable architects to analyze data and simulate real-time effects to experiment with new construction materials that are sustainable, environmentally friendly, strong, and cost-efficient, such as green steel, carbon-absorbing concrete, and mass timber.

Benefits of New Technologies:

New technological advancements enable architects to meet the demands of the times and bridge gaps between society and architectural designs. They enhance design time, facilitate faster construction, enable accurate measurement of environmental impacts, and support sustainable development. The demand for a democratic design approach is increasing, providing more user-specific designs, while big data technology helps analyze and evaluate large amounts of user feedback systematically.

Conclusion:

It is essential to remember that architectural evolution relies on human involvement throughout the process. These new technologies are tools for architects, enhancing their abilities rather than replacing them. The true potential of these technologies is realized when they are in the hands of skilled artisans who understand how to use them effectively.