TOA2 Final Examination Paper

Simplicity and Complexity

Parametricism vs Vernacular
A. Introduction

Simplicity and Complexity connectively defines contradicting styles in architecture such

as Vernacular and Parametricism respectively. Vernacular illustrates the simplest form of what
architecture can be, yet provides maximum flexibility to people with how to build the buildings
they want, an architectural space that reflects human necessity. Parametricism, on the other hand,
predicts of the utmost creation human beings can do, that designs of buildings and spaces could
be intricate and complex as it can be with parameters set to it to conform with the standards. The
theme, yet opposes each other, could be understood in a sense that we could see the simplicity in
architecture’s complex totality.

Parametricism is a style within contemporary avant-garde architecture, promoted as a

successor to post-modern architecture and modern architecture. The term was coined by Patrik
Schumacher, at the 11th Venice Architecture Biennale in the year 2008. ‘The announcement of
Parametricism involves two simultaneous discursive moves: the presentation of a new vital
architectural movement and the reassertion of the concept of style(s) as valid and productive
category of discursive orientation and self-description’ (Schumacher, P. 2012). Parametricism is
the contemporary style that is advancing its design agenda based on parametric design
techniques. It continues to evolve rapidly due to its ongoing culture of research and
experimentation. This evolution is channeled by a set of overarching original principles. As
conceptual definition, Parametricism implies that all architectural elements and compositions are
subject to modulation via variables. Using parametric design tools, programs, and computers to
manipulate equations for design purposes, Parametricism allows precise computations and
execute of complex designs. (Schumacher, P. 2015).

The term “vernacular architecture” is used to refer to traditional buildings that have been
designed and built to match the local climate and culture. Another remarkable feature of
vernacular architecture is the use of local building materials to construct housing that makes such
good use of passive energy. In other words, vernacular architecture provides the local inhabitants
with a comfortable living environment while at the same time having minimum impact on the
natural environment (Murakami & Ikaga, 2008). Vernacular architecture is characterized by its
reliance on needs, construction materials and traditions specific to its locality. It is a type of
architecture which is indigenous to a specific time and place and not replicated from elsewhere.
Historically, vernacular architecture has incorporated the skills and expertise of local builders as
opposed to formally-trained architects. (Sharma, 2014).

Page 1 of 4
 TOA2 Final Examination Paper
B. Contradicting Ideas
Parametricism
Design • All forms to be parametrically
Approach malleable; topo-logical rather than
geo-metric, and thus inherently
pliable: splines, nurbs, subdivs,
particle-spring systems, agent based
systems etc. (Schumacher, P. 2015)
Materials • As a computer based design
approach, Parametricism treats the
properties of the design as variables.
The design processes include
dimensions, angles and curvatures
remain malleable. (Schumacher, P.
2014)
• The materials used are those of
properties that can execute the
various complex designs.
Function • Parametricism is by now addressing
& all major urban building tasks, large
Context developments such as complex,
cities, and urban spaces and on all
scales, including e.g. infrastructure
projects like train stations and
airports.
Vernacular
• Vernacular architecture is commonly
geo-metric in form. Most structures in
this style are in square, rectangular or
circle shaped plans.
• Vernacular style differs from place to
place and depends upon the location and
the type of building material available in
the area. (BuildoTech, 2012).
• In the western part of the world
commonly available materials are ashlar,
clay, mortar, sand, and they use sun-
baked earth.
• Eastern parts commonly use bamboo,
laterite, timbers, palm leaves and straws.
• Vernacular architecture exists because
people in the rural areas and the
unfortunate needed a reasonable shelter,
collecting abundant materials that can be
used to build their homes.
• These shelters are imperfect and
temporary or non-permanent, yet must be
able to adapt to the climate and
environment’s condition.
Page 2 of 4
TOA2 Final Examination Paper

C. Synthesis Opera Village Laongo / Kéré Architecture

Location: Burkina Faso, Africa

The radial organization of the new 12-hectare
town follows the shape of the nautilus curve,
featuring the opera house as the center and the
soul of the project. Around the festival hall and
opera house will be workshops, modular housing
units, a school for up to 500 young students with
music and film classes.
Integration of innovative and vernacular materials
To support this wide range of function and use, an adaptable
structural module was developed with integrated passive
ventilation, solar energy use, and water collection and
management. Made with local clay, wood, and laterite stone,
these modules minimize ecologic and cost impact by
maximizing the use of materials widely available on site.

The parameters of vernacular

The Opera House takes on a
circular form with a 15 meter-high
wall of spaced wooden dowels that
hold up the roof. Several strategies
were implemented to make the
construction as efficient and
comfortable as possible for its users
without the need for energy.

The opera house as the center of the project, designed in a nautilus curved form through the
parameters of the vernacular materials. The endeavor will serve as a center for cultural exchange
and provide housing, education, and medical care to the local inhabitants; the function and context
of the architecture itself draws attention to the place as a center of African film and theater with
the construction of a world-class performance centerusing locally available materials and building
with accordance to the local climate, thus, defines vernacular and parametric architecture.

Page 3 of 4
TOA2 Final Examination Paper

References

archdaily. (2011, August 12). Vernacular Architecture and the 21st Century. Retrieved from
archdaily: http://www.archdaily.com/155224/vernacular-architecture-and-the-21st-
century

BuildoTech. (2012, May 9). Vernacular Archiitecture and Building Materials. Retrieved from
BuildoTech: https://www.buildotechindia.com/vernacular-architecture-and-building-
materials/

designboom. (2014, May 24). diebedo francis kere: opera village transforms burkina faso.
Retrieved from designboom: http://www.designboom.com/architecture/diebedo-francis-
kere-opera-village-transforms-burkina-faso/

Kere Architecture. (n.d.). Opera Village. Retrieved from Kere Architecture: http://www.kere-
architecture.com/projects/opera-village/

Murakami, S., & Ikaga, T. (2008, September). Evaluating Environmental Performance of

Vernacular Architecture through CASBEE. Retrieved from ibec:
http://www.ibec.or.jp/CASBEE/english/document/Vernacular_Architecture_brochure.pdf

Schumacher, P. (2009). Parametricism: A New Global Style for Architecture and Urban Design.
Architectural Design, 14-23.

Schumacher, P. (2014). Design Parameters to Parametric Design. The Routledge Companion for
Architecture and Design Practice.

Schumacher, P. (2015). In Defense of Parametricism. Styles; In Defense of Parametricism, 1-8.

Sharma, A. (2014, November 8). Vernacular Architecture. Retrieved from SlideShare:

https://www.slideshare.net/shaishwarya/vernacular-architecture-41286186

Aguilar, Jahziel Candace R.

2AR-10

Page 4 of 4