Optimisation-driven design in the architectural, engineering and construction industry

Digital tools and services relying on digital technology are becoming more pervasive, and are widespread in many different stages of the design process of structures. In this study, design optimisation from the perspective of architectural and structural engineering design is explored. Although, until recently, optimisation was recognised as a ‘tough’ mathematical tool, its evolution in terms of usability and efficiency have made it attractive for improving architectural design from the earliest stages of the design approach. Specialised digital tools that are able to support all structural engineering optimising requirements are somewhat difficult to develop; instead, customised structural design optimisation services have recently appeared. This work presents different strategies for parametrising distinctive variables involved in the definition of each architectural synthesis, which are defined as the main goal in architectural design optimisation and the structural design optimisation. A review of optimisation processes and optimisation tools in the field of architecture, engineering and construction is then provided. Recent paradigms from the built environment where parametric optimisation procedures have been applied in real-world design practice are also presented.