Behind the Algorithms: How Computational Design is Transforming Architecture
Design Excellence Meets Digital Innovation
When we spoke with Mario Romero, Digital Practice and Computational Design Lead at Perkins&Will, and Nirmala Srinivasa, Project Manager at the same global practice, one theme stood out: computational design isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a powerful enabler of creativity and collaboration.
Perkins&Will, renowned for its ethos of design excellence, has always championed research-driven architecture. But as Mario explained, the firm’s approach to digital practice is unique: “We consider the craft of digital delivery and advanced workflows as a practice in itself. It’s not about novelty—it’s about making design better, faster, and more rigorous.”
The Challenge: Iteration Without Compromise
The conversation centred on a striking project for a tech client—a campus designed to foster collaboration and creativity. At the heart of the scheme was a dramatic feature: a series of sculptural timber fins forming a lodge-like space for employees. The client loved the concept but wanted multiple iterations—thicker fins, different curves, varied spacing.
For Nirmala, the challenge was clear: “We had the vision, but in Revit, every change meant hours of re-modelling. When you’re trying to get client buy-in, you can’t afford delays.”
Enter Mario and his computational design toolkit. Using Rhino and Grasshopper, he built a parametric model that allowed the team to flex profiles, adjust spacing, and explore curves in real time. “It’s about using parameters and algorithms to drive design constraints,” Mario explained. “That flexibility means we can iterate quickly without sacrificing rigour.”
Collaboration Beyond the Screen
What made this story compelling wasn’t just the technology—it was the collaboration. “This wasn’t about letting tools dictate design,” Nirmala stressed. “The design intent came first. The tools helped us achieve it.”
And the benefits extended beyond the client. When the contractor initially balked at the complexity, Mario’s parametric model became a bridge between design and fabrication. By rationalising components and exporting data into CAD, the team demonstrated how the fins could be manufactured efficiently. “We empowered the GC and the sub,” Nirmala said. “Suddenly, they saw it wasn’t frightening—it was achievable.”
Mario added, “As computational designers, we’re not just scripting geometry. We’re data translators. We make sure everything talks to each other—Rhino, Revit, fabrication software—because interoperability is key to delivering real-world architecture.”
Lessons for the Future
So, what does this mean for architects navigating the digital frontier? Mario’s advice is clear: “Don’t let technology lead design. Bend it to your will. Approach computational design with empathy—understand the vision first, then find the workflow to make it happen.”
For Nirmala, the takeaway is equally powerful: “If you keep design excellence at the foundation, you’ll find the right partner—whether that’s a person or a tool. This project proved that collaboration and technology can preserve the integrity of a concept.”
Where Does AI Fit In?
Looking ahead, Mario sees AI as an accelerator, not a replacement. “AI won’t design buildings for us, but it will take away the mundane tasks—meeting minutes, rendering variations—and free us to focus on design. It’s about using these tools to iterate faster and make better decisions.”
Nirmala agrees: “It’s exciting to think about where AI will take design. But the human element—the vision, the empathy—that will always matter.”
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