Delanda

Delanda’s essays investigate the genetic algorithm; their place in architecture and their use in the future.  Genetic algorithms are now a tool that can generate form by the mating of different forms.  The richest algorithms breed the most surprising results.  If the results were predictable the need for this tool would no longer exist.  In saying that, there still needs to be some level of predictability to generate true buildings.  Structural elements need to still function in the same ways, holding the loads and stresses of the building.  For if columns evolved into decorative elements the structural soundness of the building would be compromised.  Therefore; before the breeding of forms begin, a “body plane” must be set, much like how mammals have an “abstract vertebrae” plan, building would have to have their own “body plan” that defines the essence of a building.  The designer would decide what that plan is comprised of, and in doing so becomes the designer of the egg rather than the designer of the building.  Once the egg is decided upon the genetic algorithm takes over and starts generating offspring, as generations pass new building forms will evolve. 

My question is then; in the end will algorithms be able to produce more efficient buildings than architects are now able to produce?  And if so, will aesthetic design in the future be of less importance compared to “aesthetic fitness”?