Computational Models in Architecture: Understanding Multi-Dimensionality and Mapping

The aim of this paper is to discuss computational thinking and parametric design and thus “what model is” in the realm of mathematics in architecture. Here we investigate how multi-dimensionality and reference systems should be contemplated, along with what mapping is and how it is related with algorithms in computational design. Set theory and functional relations are re-visited and similarity/similitude concepts and the importance of nondimensional parameters relating different reference systems (interpreted as domain and range relations) are pointed out. In this context, computational design approaches based on modern biomimetic studies in architecture which are beyond metaphors or analogies are considered as the prominent cases of the present inquiry.