Stereotomic Models In Architecture, A Generative Design Method to Integrate Spatial and Structural Parameters Through the Application of Subtractive Operations

Abstract

This paper introduces a generative design method for architecture grounded on the stereotomic approach. The method is based on the application of the Boolean subtraction operation to integrate spatial and structural parameters in the conceptual phase of the design process. Working on a three-dimensional form, which is displayed and studied as a solid mass with the help of a solid modelling software, the architect is able to hollow it out using subtractive operations to generate interior spaces in the form of spatial voids. This process can be applied in an iterative way; at each step, the portion of the solid mass remaining after the ap-plication of previous operations is further hollowed out. The method takes advantage of the potential offered by contemporary digital tools to generate and explore multiple design variations.