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052-0635-00L 2 Credits BSC D-ARCH

Computational Design III

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Benjamin Dillenburger, Prof. Dr. Bernd Bickel, Dr. Anton Savov
Only for students repeating session exam of S26 (Regulation 2017) Videoportal:
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:20

Abstract

The courses “Computational Design III and IV” focus on exploring digital architectural culture. They examine the central question of how digital methods and strategies can be used creatively and purposefully, as well as consciously and critically, in the design process in order to have a sustainable impact on building culture.

Objective

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: Advanced Digital Skills: ● Apply selected digital techniques in architecture and document the process and parameters clearly. ● Implement and modify a generative design workflow with and without the use of AI. ● Use state-of-the-art techniques in digital rendering and representation to create imagery that communicates a stated design intent. Digital Technologies in Architecture: ● Describe and compare major digital technologies in architecture, identifying their typical use cases. ● Explain and contrast various computational approaches that support design. ● Explain and strategically apply the key working principles of computer graphics techniques and AI-enabled visualizations. Critical Reflection on the Application of Digital Technologies: ● Discuss and evaluate the implications of digital cultures and theory from disciplinary, ethical, and environmental perspectives. ● Develop a critical stance on how digital tools influence authorship, bias, and design intent. ● Assess how computer-aided visual communication shapes perception, decisions, and the design process at different project stages.

Content

The course, Computational Design III, is organized into two thematic blocks. Each block consists of a lecture, tutor-supported exercises and assignments, and a discussion of student work. The first block covers techniques and skills for generative design, such as parametric modelling and AI-assisted coding in Grasshopper. This block examines their impact on contemporary practice and concepts of authorship. The second block builds skills in producing visualizations using physically-based rendering (PBR) in Blender and AI-assisted rendering. This block examines the fundamentals of computer graphics alongside generative image models and their impact on state-of-the-art architectural rendering practices. All course materials, assignments, and submissions will be managed through the Moodle learning platform.

General Information

Language
German
Levels
BSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 60 minutes
Aids
Keine
Digital
The examination takes place on your own device. Installation of SEB required.
Vorlesungsbegleitende Übungen stellen ein obligatorisches Leistungselement dar, welches nicht für sich alleine bestanden werden muss; sie werden mit einer Note bewertet, die anteilsmässig (50%) zur Gesamtnote der Lerneinheit, die im Rahmen einer Sessionsprüfung abgelegt wird, zählt. Die Sessionsprüfung findet als On-Campus Online-Prüfung statt (Bring Your Own Device - BYOD) und kann sowohl in deutscher als auch in englischer Sprache absolviert werden.The assignment deliverables accompanying the exercises are a compulsory part of the course which do not have to be passed separately. They are graded and count proportionally (50%) towards the overall grade for the course unit, which is determined as part of a session exam. The session exam takes place as a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) exam and can be taken in either German or English.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Computational Design III No time listed 2 h weekly

Offered In