These artifacts were produced during a course I taught that investigated use of topology optimization software for the generation of materially efficient architectural structures. This software arranges matter in space with the goal of minimizing material use and can arrive at complex geometrical solutions. Adoption of this software is common in product design disciplines which seek material reduction without loss of performance but is rare within the field of architecture.

Current discourse around algorithmic design, optimization, form-finding, and design agency were examined through a series of readings and discussions, and the course questioned the potential roles that optimization may play during the design process. Beyond simple goals of efficiency, this design software was used here for its expressive aesthetic potential.