The computer-

rendered
technique in the 2007
architectural field
In this term paper, I will discuss the role of computer
technology in the architectural field and whether this method
is of any importance, an advantage to the architect‟s
profession. In this work, the methodology and the contents By: WAN
which derive from many sources are based on library
research. This paper will explain how the visual form of the FAEZAH W
computer technology is employed as a kind of method in
design and problem solving. Based on the arguments put ADNAN
forward highlighted, it will conclude that this method is the
best technique that should be implemented today in the
architectural field.
_________________________________________________________1.0 INTRODUCTION

In the era of globalization, technology has become the main aspect in each and every
country which caters for the needs of people and as the problem-solver to issues raised in
the environment during this present time. Experts believe that the more the technology
starts to evolve, the greater the changes, metamorphoses and inventions will be in the future
(Cuff, 2002). Undeniably, the evolution of technology continues to progress and transform
the practical aspect of traditional methods in nearly every field. In developing this
appropriate response to the evolution of technology, the computer, which was invented
within the 20 centuries and nowadays, has become the most important tool that caters for
the work for nearly all aspect of life and purposes. Likewise, scientists, technology experts
and engineers conceive the future as the goal to progress and move forward.

Eventually, architecture is one field that has been affected by this changing situation.
It should be noted that the traditional methods of architectural design which is the hand-
drawn technique used by architects has always impressed the world with its conscientious
and aesthetic expression. For example, the Mosque of Cordoba, in Spain and also a building
which was designed by Antonio Gaudi, the Sagrada Familia Cathedral in Barcelona, that
portrays the outstanding aesthetic details which not many architect are able to do the same
today. However, over the last 20 years, the methods of architectural design have gone
through a vast metamorphosis adapting the computer technology in design through the use
of computer programs such as AutoCAD, REVIT, VectorWorks and others. In response to
the evolution of technology, these programs are designed to imitate the hand-drawn
technique and consequently, this new wave has lead to the dissatisfaction among some
people. Though some are inflamed to oppose the new technology in architecture yet these
methods have miraculously proven to be the best method to apply in this era. An example of
building which is built with the aid of computer technology is the Petronas Twin Towers in
Kuala Lumpur which was designed by Caesar Pelli.

According to Cuff (2002), this issue is pointed out and continually debated between
architects who embrace computer-generated techniques and those who are inclined towards
the view that the traditional hand-drawn technique should still be carried out in designing.
Some people believe that the design methodology introduced nowadays has led to radical
cultural shift in architecture whereby the understanding of what means to be an architect has
changed (Laiserin & Linn, 2001). Moreover, those who beg to differ contend that methods
used by the younger generation of architects appear to be like a video-game in slow motion
and thus portray the unserious manner of this group of architect-to-be in designing.
“Changes never answer the end”, an English proverb best describe technology that use in
the future. It is possible that in the future, the methods used to design will be much more
compact and outstanding. Hence, we should think of the possibility of replacing the
traditional method with the new method of computer technology for the benefit of all. I
strongly believe that the computer-rendered technique should be implemented to replace the
traditional hand-drawn technique because it helps architects to generate and explore new
forms in design, it helps to design effectively, and it helps architects to accomplish a
desired career milestone.

_________________________________________2.0 THE CASE AGAINST

THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPUTER-GENERATED SOFTWARE

In this section, the view is been considered whereby the negative aspects of
implementing the computer-generated replacing the hand-drawn technique are raised. The
issue of changing the culture of design and lack of experience in the traditional method of the
hand-drawn technique are highlighted to oppose the idea of implementing the new
technology.

____________________________________________________2.1 RADICAL
CULTURAL SHIFT

Laiserin and Linn (2001) state, “The digital technology is significant change of design
culture and influencing our core understanding of what it means to be an architect,: (p.166).
Referring to what has been mentioned by the writers, it is believed that this new method
which uses the digital technology has imposed a radical cultural shift in this field. Back in
history, architects who were also known as master builders, applied their skills in hand-drawn
technique to speak their design intention. Such work which requires a conscious detail and
concentration has impressed the viewers all over the world with its extraordinary beauty and
style.
 However, with the presence of computer technology in the architectural field
nowadays this culture has changed. Most architects-to-be are of the groups which are
graduating with digital skills rather than skills in drafting. Likewise, many experienced and
veteran architects are afraid that if the technique of computer-generated software is used to
teach the new generation of architects, they might possibly neglect the fundamentals of
learning in architecture which is the joy of learning on paper (Linn, 2001).

In contrast, though many people have opposed the implementation of this technique,
yet it should be noted that in the teaching of Islam, there is no conflict between Islam and
technology. In fact, Prophet Muhammad P.B.U.H called upon Muslims to gain and develop
knowledge through any medium that can benefit them. Thus technology in the architectural
field does not contradict the Islamic teachings and systems (Nabil M. Al Maghrebi & Potmis,
1996). Moreover, the use of computer-generated software has given benefits in promoting
the paperless environment in the architecture filed and at the same time saving the
environment.

Furthermore, Bermudez and Klinger (2003) state that the need for digital technology
in architecture is a must and inevitable and this have given profit not only to architectural
practices but also to teaching methods and the research process. Moreover, some research
done in the United States of America proves that nearly 90% of the architecture schools in
that country exercise their practice with the digital technology (Seebonum, 2003).
Therefore, the misconception of changing the culture of design is irrelevant because this
technique has assisted more in understanding architecture in new type of medium.

_________________________________________3.0 IN FAVOUR OF THE

IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPUTER-GENERATED SOFTWARE

In this section, the approach is to highlight the benefit of implementing the computer-
generated software in the design process of the architectural practice. Such important
points highlighted are the benefit in generating and exploring new forms in design, ability to
design effectively and meticulously and also architects are able to set their targets to
achieve a higher stage in their career and accomplish a desired career milestone.
_________________________________________3.1 AID IN GENERATING
AND EXPLORING NEW FORMS IN DESIGN

Computer technology which has been widely implemented in the architectural filed is
believed to be the excellent solving method in the design problem (Ojeda & Guerra, 1996).
In like manner, the use of this technique has given architects profits in exploring their design
creatively thus overcoming certain design problems in the early stages of the design
process. Such issues of complicated and sophisticated structural design which were once
pointed out by certain group of people as the crazy work of an architect and the nightmare
for engineers, is now possible to be constructed.

Through the use of computer techniques, architects are able and inspired to explore
new forms in their design. although the same outcomes are able to be produced from the
hand-drawn technique yet it should be noted that the traditional methods only produce the
horizontal ad vertical type of drawing. In other words, there are limitations in exploring the
design through that method. In contrast, with the new method of computer technology,
architects are able to explore in 3-Dimensional drawings, models and volumes. Other than
that, design of curved and parabolic style introduced by architects can easily be applied and
implemented using the digital tool (Snoonian, 2001).

Moreover, any changes and alterations to the design can easily be done and viewed.
For example, designers can apply a different type of colour finished to the wall and view the
different effects of each colour applied. Thus, clients can also play their part and choose
what they like best. As a result, unnecessary over expenditure in the cost of the project can
be avoided. In the context of education, this technology had aided students who are lacking
in the hand-drawn technique thus they are able to explore and communicate their design
fluidly and hence work in a more disciplined manner according to the limited timeframe given.
Furthermore, using this medium to design can produce drawings as real as the living things.
In like manner, the simulations created are able to give a clearer picture to show the
response towards the context of the project.

On the other hand, what has inflamed certain people in opposition to the
implementation of the computer-rendered technique replacing the hand-drawn technique is
that they believe the methodology of architectural design used by the new generation of
architects appears like a video-game in slow motion (Laiserin & Linn, 2001). In spite of all the
evidence given, it is undeniable that the computer-generated technique does appear like a
video-game. Nevertheless, what many people do not realize is the fact that computer
technology has created such a collaborative environment since it allows the users to interact
and explore various way of understanding architecture. Furthermore, it should be noted that,
through these methods of visualizations, users have a greater understanding of their design
and it encourages greater enthusiasm and seriousness towards their designs and they are
able to perform multi-tasking works yet explore variations of architecture style with minimal
investment of time.

It is clear that computer technology has become an important tool which can
encourage architects to explore and break a new ground in their design intentions. Likewise,
design is no more in basic forms as mentioned in the English proverb, “changes never answer
the end”. The method of computer technology emphasizes functionality rather than designing
something that is beautiful but not functional. In addition, Snoonian (2001) states that,
“Technological advance were integral to achieving a design goals for a wide variety of
project”. Therefore, we should enable the implementation of this new revolution of
architectural style in meeting today‟s lifestyle and needs.

_______________________________________________3.2 AID IN DESIGN

EFFECTIVELY AND METICULOUSLY

Linn and Laiserin (2001) stated; “Before, if you had a good hand and draft well, it
stayed with you the rest of your life. Today, that‟s not enough. Software applications and
hardware are constantly changing”, (p.22). Referring to what has been stated above, clearly
the need of implementing the computer-generated software is important to this field of
architecture. Undeniably, the technology continues to evolve thus the methods used today
might not be a suitable technique to use in the future. It should be noted that, the digital
technology has given benefit to architects to perform their task of drafting, modelling,
detailing, building fabricating and other process of designing being conducted in a single tool
which is the computer. Besides, they can work in any place at any time. In like manner, they
do not require being at the drafting table all day long to do their jobs but instead they can
work at home, in the cafeteria, during holidays and other times that they like.

Furthermore, some clients demand the design process of the project to be

completed sooner or in other words less time is consumed. Likewise, the method of
computer-generated software enables architects to speed up their design process and at
the same time produce an effective and accurate product. Similarly, the technology has
become assistive that can enhance their practice. They can use the time consumed to do
more analysis, additional design structure and details. As human beings, we cannot be
separated from doing something wrong which is also mentioned in the Holy Quran verse
114:1-6. However, as an architect, a single mistake can affect a lot of live. Therefore, the
unnecessary mistake should be avoided. Likewise, the computer software is designed to aid
architects in designing accurately. Such errors can easily be detected in the early stages of
the design process. In terms of mobility, the advantage is at hand where the technology has
invented various types of medium for saving the document and drawings in as small as the
thumbs. Examples of the mediums that can be used to save the files are using the compact
disc, pen-drive, portable hard-disk and many others. Therefore, the efficiency in terms of the
mobility is clearly undeniable compared to hand-drawn techniques which require a cylinder box
or some in the architecture terms „the bazooka‟, to gather and save the drawings.

However, it could be argued that the medium of this new technology requires a lot of
money because the tools are expensive compared to the traditional methods that can be
bought at a cheaper price with the use of paper. Nevertheless, what those who oppose do
not realize is the fact that this method of the computer-generated technique has aided in
reducing the paperwork and thus helps in saving the environment (Snoonian, 2001). We know
that paper is been processed from trees. The fact that architecture requires and consumes
most in the use of paper has encouraged the software inventors to design software to adi
the design process in architecture thus encourage less usage paperwork. As such,
architects only require to delete the file or mistakes they done and then continue their work
without any major problems.

On the whole, the computer-generated technique is good news for a busy architect‟s
lifestyle which helps to work smart and enjoy their life at the same time. Furthermore, those
who argue against the use of this technique should rethink and imagine if they get into a
situation when their office caught fire tomorrow, could they get to work a day later? With the
use of the computer technique, it is possible to do so but for the hand-drawn technique
which uses paper, they might not be lucky if they got into that situation (Snoonian, 2001).
As the matter of fact, this has happened in United States on September 11. Therefore, we
should always be ready for any consequences in our life. As such, by implementing the
methods of computer0generated, this type of problem can be avoided. Furthermore, it
provides a way to embrace the efficiency and accuracy in the architectural design field.
______________________________________________________3.3 AID TO
ACCOMPLISH A DESIRED CAREER MILESTONE

According to Marx and Tomassian (2003), “The technical competence in computer

technology has become a condition sine qua hon of landing a job at a respectable
architectural practice” (p.8). likewise, from the research done by experts the fact is that
92% of an architectural firms preferred to hire employees with computer literacy. It is
important to note that computer literacy is the assimilation in the office working environment
today. Moreover, most documents and drawings nowadays are produced using the
computer.

Back in time, the skills in the hand-drawn technique were vital for architects who were
looking for a job. Though this traditional method has impressed the world with its detail and
conscious design, nowadays the skills in computer are needed. Form the survey of Fadzidah
Abdullah (1999) regarding the use of computer aids in architectural firms, she mentioned
that most architectural offices utilized computer aids daily, and the percentage showing
100% of workers are using the Word process software and 92% of the drawing process are
using the computer0generated software program.

Furthermore, the ability to focus on design issues early in their career has helped
many young architects to mature sooner and as a result, they are able to progress futher ans
faster in their careers. Likewise, this new generation of architects-to-be can master not only
design but also other fields relating to architecture. Besides, architects are able to enhance
their practice in architecture abroad. They can be involved in the international project all over
the world yet be in their own country at home or anywhere. In like manner, the team members
in different locations of the globe can view, alter and update project documents depending
on their task electronically (Snoonian, 2001).

However, the opponent might argue that, this method has made the new generation
of architects have less experience of designing and drawing by hand thus missing out the
joys of learning on paper. But this is just not true because they still have the experience of
designing using a different medium which is designed to simulate the hand-drawn technique.
Moreover, they will have more knowledge in other fields relating to architecture. Thus, it
helps them to take their desired career one step further and support architecture‟s diverse
endeavours and thinking modes.
 Clearly, we should be competent and aware of the current digital movement
development thus in the context of the architectural field the need to employ digital
technology is needed to expedite and improve the quality of services. Thus, the knowledge
of computer-generated software enables architects to spread their wings in all aspects of
the profession related to architecture and move further in their careers.

_______________________________________________4.0 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the computer-rendered technique in the architectural filed can create

more advantages and give more profit when its application is well implemented and
developed which consequently make it successful. Based on the argument, despite people
who argue against the use of computer-generated software as a method of design, it is
important to note that, sooner or later the traditional hand-drawn technique will reach its
limits in expressing its design intention (Ojeda & Guerra, 1996).

Moreover, the fact is that by using the computer-generated software, architects are
able to be ready in any type of situation and consequence regarding their design. as such,
they are able to work in a more effective, time efficient and more accurate manner. Kent
(1996) mentioned that, in this era of globalization, it is important to emphasize that the way
architects perceive architecture is now influenced by computer technology. Likewise, it is
also affects the approach in which architecture is conceived and experienced.

More noteworthy is the fact that the technology has assisted in building an
adaptable, manageable, and sustainable architecture, which benefits not only the present day
but also the future, has made many architects get involved in applying the computer
technology in architecture (Bernstein, 2003). With the implementation of the computer-
rendered technique to replace the traditional hand-drawn technique, education is seen as the
first important tool in the reshaping of the new generation of architects. In other words, the
implementation of this technique should start from the architecture school. According to the
survey by Fadzidah Abdullah (1999), it is stressed that, “..architecture schools should
review the syllabus to be comparative with current digital movement in computerized working
environment today and adapt the teaching methodology”. So they should be willing to try to
invest in developing personal skills of the student body.
 Finally, it should be noted that the technology of the computer us designed to cater
for future needs and respond to the problems that always occur in the traditional method of
design. In like manner, it is not possible to be brave enough to say that today‟s technology
will result in the future design in the architecture field. If this method is implemented, then
the work and profession as an architect will be a source of daily enjoyment to architects and
no longer a nightmare to engineers. Thus we should accept the evolution of the architectural
design method.
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