Connecting FormIt and Dynamo for Predesign Formal Thinking

FormIt architectural modeling software connects 3 elements of the design process that are relevant to every project: contextual information, building performance simulation, and parametric modification. Learning to connect these pieces quickly and efficiently in the architectural, 3D sketch-style environment of FormIt enables quick iteration opening new modes of design thinking. This session will illustrate a process that we're teaching architecture design students: first, how to quickly build design context (both from data acquisition sites and the creation of custom models) of buildings and topography; second, how to develop predesign simulations to inform decisions and create a baseline for building performance; and, finally, how to develop formal strategies by using parametric processes with Dynamo software connecting design ideas and simulation data. In closing, the session will cover predesign visualization beyond FormIt, pushing the file to prototyping and virtual reality.