ABSTRACT
This chapter tracks a selective summary of the evolution of computational design methods, from the retooling of CAD, to code-based design. Shifting from top-down modeling to more generative, bottom-up systems, interest in biomorphics, biomimetics, and natural systems has brought about an intensified culture around morphogenetic design systems and evolutionary software in architecture and urbanism. From Building Information Modeling (BIM) and its potential to automate the design of options arises the potential for urban optioneering. This gives rise to the possibility of informing city design with dynamic, emergent processes, to help shape and regulate it. This chapter also presents the history and present status of parametric design for urbanism.
