New tectonics: a preliminary framework involving classic and digital thinking

Abstract

The digital tectonic studies noticed the dramatic change of traditional architectural construction in association with digital technology. A more systematic framework of new tectonics combining digital and classic elements and processes is needed to explore the digital theory in the architecture field. The first step of this case-study research is to determine both the analytical factors of classic tectonics and the digital cases. The next step discusses emergent digital factors of tectonics. The third step applies the four new, factors to the tectonic processes of five digital projects by well-known architects who have actual building experience in both predigital and digital it,works. Some phenomena of digital tectonics have emerged to reveal the dynamic factors of motion, information, generation and fabrication. In a preliminary framework of new tectonics, seven classic and four digital factors form a whole and interact with each other. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.