Immersive Environments for Persistent Modelling and Generative Design Strategies in an Informal Settlement

This paper discusses the potential of a workflow that integrates parametric design and spatial computing, to create a persistent model, and address the gap between top-down and bottom-up design approaches for an informal settlement in Mumbai. The workflow involves the use of Fologram®, a Grasshopper® plugin for Rhinoceros®, which allows designers to work in a Mixed Reality (MR) environment through the Microsoft Hololens® eyewear and ubiquitous smart devices. While Immersive environments typically enable visualization of a design, we are interested in its possibilities as a tool to assist the locals, who often design and construct without the aid of designers. This practice is a good opportunity to examine the implementation of this technology. These tools allow the user to visualize a model at full scale and make edits, which permit an assessment of the design in real time before finalizing design decisions. In addition, the shared MR experience can be further integrated in the proposed community as a participatory design tool promoting recreational and educational experiences for local people and children. Discussions and investigations of the possibilities happen through an action research under an architectural studio setting. We have considered three types of decision making in the design process: “urban” scale, “building” scale and “detail component” scale. During the design process, Fologram® developers assisted through technical troubleshooting sessions in the form of video conference, e-mail, and workshop. The final objective is to demonstrate that these environments can be combined beyond a representational intent.