Shape Grammar

Analysis of shape grammar application as a tool for urban design

M. Mandić, B. Tepavčević, 2015. Environment and Planning B: Planning and Design, volume 42, pp. 675-687

Abstract: In the past decade a certain number of studies have suggested that shape grammars and their capability for producing alternative solutions represent an adequate tool for overcoming complexities regarding urban design. In this paper we present a critical analysis of various approaches to shape grammar application in urban design. The aim of this research is to provide an insight into the current state-of-the-art developments and give a critical evaluation on the basis of the criteria of interactivity and flexibility in the approach. We identify two main concepts of grammar application in urban design and outline their characteristics. We conclude that a generic or context-independent approach to shape grammars can provide high levels of flexibility and interaction with the user. This, coupled with their ability to encode different layers of information, facilitates their use for design exploration and problem solving in an urban context.

Online version of article: Analysis of shape grammar application as a tool for urban design

Procedural Modeling in architecture based on statistical and fuzzy inference

B. Tepavčević, V. Stojaković, Automation in Construction, 2013. Vol. 35. pp.329‐33.

Abstract : In this research, we used a group of sacral buildings on the territory of Vojvodina. 3D mass models that are similar to the real world buildings are automatically generated via CGA Shape Grammar programming rules.The results demonstrate that coupling procedural modeling with fuzzy and statistical analysis enables generation of infinite number of buildings representing the typical appearance of an architectural type and their variations, which is a reliable reproduction of characteristics of the real world buildings. We also demonstrate the application of this approach in the simulation of architectural heritage appearance.

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Procedural Modeling in architecture based on statistical and fuzzy inference

Shape grammar in contemporary architectural theory and design

Tepavčević B., Stojaković V., 2012. , Facta Universitatis Series: Architecture and Civil Engineering Vol. 10, No 2, 2012, pp. 169‐ 178.

Abstract: In the past decade, digital technologies had a great impact on contemporary architectural practice, design and theory. CAD/CAM technologies opened up new opportunities by allowing design and production of complex geometric shapes. One of the first applications of computational process in architecture was based on using shape grammars, a rule-based expert systems in artificial intelligence generating geometric shapes. Early applications of shape grammars in art and architecture started shortly after its invention during the 70ies and 80ies of the XX century, however, their potential as a generative design tool still has not been fully exploited in practice. Despite their popularity in academic circles, shape grammars have not found a widespread place/usage in computer aided architectural design. Role of shape grammar as a generative design and analysis tool and their influence on contemporary architectural design and theory are examined in this paper. Also, new and ongoing issues concerning shape grammars are discussed in order to indicate further directions of their usage.