Towards a 100 % Customized Architecture

Abstract

The chapter envisions an agenda for a 100 % customized architecture to increase quality and performance of the built environment. Advanced machines connected to computational applications encourage an understanding of architectural design as an information flow. Design teams use, and in some cases develop directly, tailored tools to extract the design from specific data, such as material characteristics, customer expectations, performance options and fabrication features in order to develop projects at any scale. The growing interest of architects to experiment with advanced fabrication methods has outlined the synergy between digital and material processes in design and construction as a concept of emerging importance. This new paradigm has been defined as digital materiality , able to synergically connect data and material, programming and construction. This novel material awareness suggests the potential development of new families of integrated architectural systems, overcoming the limitations of contemporary construction typologies. The perspective of the radical diffusion of mass customization is discussed with an analysis of supporting conditions necessary in order to strengthen the impact of this cutting-edge research over the next decade, such as the development of accessible computational tools and digital fabrication facilities, the specification of new education systems and the definition of novel professional competences. In particular, a discussion about how the AEC sector would benefit from re-organizing its own system of contractual regulations is presented as well as how to overcome the legal constraints which are currently limiting the diffusion of advanced customized architecture.