ABSTRACT
In the domain of computational design and architecture, the generation of architectural structures using automated methods has been a persistent challenge. In this study, we present an interactive design system that utilizes geometric and spatial composition constraints as input to recreate traditional Yao stilt houses. The architecture of the Yaos, an ethnic group from China, is known for its distinct characteristics in using wood as the main element of construction. This work proposes a tree graph representation method for the space layout of the existing Yao wood stilt houses and at the same time provides a wider diversity of design solutions as output. We implement such architecture prototypes in Python programming language as a tool for Rhinoceros 3D graphics software, to facilitate the generative design workflow and cataloguing of the stilt houses. In a case-study experiment, we demonstrate the system’s ability to (a) rebuild housing prototypes resembling the existing surveyed stilts, and to (b) generate diverse building structures while considering given spatial design variables.
