PA Talks 02 – Mario Carpo (The Second Digital Turn)

Summary

In this interview, Mario discusses the profound impact of computer-aided design and artificial intelligence on architecture. He explains how the traditional separation between design and fabrication has collapsed, allowing architects to become makers of notations directly translated into physical objects. The rise of AI and 3D printing enables unprecedented levels of detail and customization in design. Mario emphasizes the importance of a balanced architectural education, combining studio practice with classroom and lab learning, and predicts that while AI will be a valuable tool, it won't replace the need for human architects anytime soon.

Takeaways

• 🏗️ The advent of computer-aided design (CAD) has fundamentally changed architecture by collapsing the separation between design and fabrication. Architects now use the same tools for thinking, drawing, and making physical objects.
• 🖌️ Traditionally, architects were agents of notation, creating drawings and technical notations for builders to construct buildings. With CAD, architects can now also be agents of fabrication.
• 🤖 The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in architecture is shifting the role of architects from problem solvers to decision-makers, as AI can handle complex decision-making processes traditionally reserved for humans.
• 🔍 The 'second digital turn' in architecture refers to the shift towards using digital tools like 3D printing and AI, which enable more precise and granular design and fabrication at a microscopic level.
• 🔢 The concept of 'discretization' in design, or the use of discrete components like voxels, is becoming more prevalent due to the capabilities of modern manufacturing technologies like 3D printing.
• 📦 Discrete manufacturing processes like 3D printing allow for the creation of complex, high-resolution structures that would be impractical for humans to design and fabricate manually.
• 🏙️ While digital tools can solve some architectural problems, they are not relevant to all aspects of architecture. There are still many problems that are non-computational and rely on human intuition, taste, and personal choices.
• 💼 The economic feasibility of using AI and robotics in architecture is limited by the cost of these technologies compared to the relatively low cost of architectural labor, suggesting that AI will not replace architects in the near future.
• 🌟 The idea of 'starchitects' or celebrity architects is seen as an anomaly and not a goal for the next generation of architects, emphasizing the importance of focusing on good design rather than fame.
• 📚 Mario recommends that young architects should focus on a well-rounded education, combining studio work, classroom learning, and laboratory experiments to become well-trained professionals capable of competing in the global market.

Q & A

How has computer-aided design (CAD) changed the way architects think about design space, building, and the relationship between human and environment?

CAD has fundamentally changed architecture by collapsing the separation between design and making. Traditionally, architects were agents of notation, creating drawings that builders would then translate into physical structures. With CAD, the same digital file can be used to produce both an image and the physical object itself, making architects both thinkers and makers.

What is the significance of the shift from traditional architectural practices to computer-aided design in terms of architectural profession?

The shift signifies the end of the separation between design and making. Architects are now able to notate, represent, and fabricate at the same time, which was not possible in the traditional practice where architects made drawings and builders made the physical objects.

How does the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in architecture affect the role of architects?

AI is increasingly being used for decision-making in architecture, which traditionally was a human task. This can lead to more informed and reasonable decisions, but it also raises questions about the extent to which AI will replace human architects in the future.

What is the 'second digital turn' in architecture, and how does it relate to the use of AI and computational tools?

The 'second digital turn' refers to the further integration of digital technologies into architecture, including AI. It involves the use of computational tools not just for design and making, but also for solving complex problems and optimizing solutions, potentially leading to more efficient and precise architectural designs.

How does the use of 3D printing and additive manufacturing technologies influence the style of architecture, particularly in terms of 'oxidization' or 'discretization'?

3D printing and additive manufacturing technologies have led to a style of architecture characterized by discretization, where structures are made up of individual, distinct pieces or 'voxels'. This contrasts with the smooth, subtractive style of the 90s, which was influenced by CNC milling machines.

What are the implications of the shift towards a 'discrete logic of manufacturing' in architecture?

The discrete logic of manufacturing, where each component is individually fabricated, can become an aesthetic attribute. Architects may choose to display the technical logic of the construction process in the final design, showcasing the individual components that make up the structure.

How can the use of computational tools and AI in architecture lead to more efficient and sustainable designs?

Computational tools and AI can optimize designs by calculating and fabricating structures at a microscopic level of resolution. This can lead to significant savings in building materials and energy, as only the necessary material is used where it is needed.

What are the potential drawbacks of mass customization in architecture, and when might it be unnecessary?

While mass customization allows for the production of unique items at no additional cost, it may not always be necessary or desirable. For example, creating one million different glasses when a standard design works for everyone could be seen as excessive and wasteful.

How does the speaker view the future role of architects in the context of advancing digital technologies?

The speaker believes that architects should not become complacent and should continue to learn and adapt to new technologies. However, he also emphasizes that architects should maintain their human-centric approach and not rely solely on technology for decision-making.

What advice does the speaker have for young architects regarding their education and professional development?

The speaker advises young architects to engage in systematic learning beyond just studio work. He emphasizes the importance of a balanced education that includes design, scholarship, and scientific experimentation, suggesting that a well-rounded education is crucial for success in the field.

How does the speaker perceive the current state of architectural education and the job market for architects?

The speaker acknowledges that the number of jobs available to architects is influenced by market fluctuations and is not solely dependent on the number of graduates produced by architecture schools. He also suggests that some architectural education programs may not be adequately preparing students for the competitive international market.