Customer Reviews

Pamphlet Architecture 27: Tooling

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Aranda/Lasch provide a glimpse of what algorithmic techniques in architecture are capable of producing. Spiraling, packing, weaving, blending, cracking, flocking, and tiling are briefly defined, and their conceptual application in architecture is explored.

Although interesting, the discussion is left at a highly conceptual level, and the book could benefit from more detailed exploration and explanation. A website promising programming code to accompany the techniques has yet to be developed (and 2 years from date of publication probably never will) and does not appear to require the purchase of the book in order to access if it ever does go online.

A better discussion of algorithmic architecture can be found in Kostas Terzidis' Algorithmic Architecture, which not only shows better developed architectural projects but provides an analysis of code scripting.

This book looks at scripting from a conceptual point of view. I enjoyed its form and content. The examples of work were inspiring.

Why do I give this 3 out of 5 stars? I feel slightly miss led. On page 94 the authors write "Scripts from tooling experiments are available at www.arandalasch.com/tooling". Yet the site doesn't exist! The authors have yet to create this accompanying site that could give more tangible insight into the nitty-gritty of scripting. I assume it won't happen as its been more than a year now since the book was published. Too bad, because there are really few books that get into the details of scripting without becoming "programming books". Aranda and Lasch could have been pioneers in this area as they seem to enjoy the hands-on aspects of making stuff. Instead, they have dropped the ball.

The book is full of pseudocode which is fine if you already know how to program. But for DIY beginners like myself, its just not enough...

Sheds some light on the aesthetic potentials of algorithmic design, but it leaves the reader very unsatisfied. Nothing here goes beyond the basic geometric exercise level. Also, it's a short read and even shorter if you already know the logic behind the algorithms.

The "process" that Aranda/Lasch uses is also downright shallow: make an algorithmic form then force-feed program into it. I love exotic geometry if it's done thoughtfully, but the projects in Tooling are neither very exotic nor thoughtful and the end result is mediocre eye candy and so-so form driven architecture. I firmly believe that more enriching applications exist for algorithmic design; applications that are broader in scope and are guided by an intent to advance the discipline well beyond the making of funny shapes.

Philosophical differences aside, there's nothing in Tooling that can't be found on the internet, for free, and with the relevant code (See communities for GC, Processing, RhinoScript, etc). Do not pay money for this. Tooling is too hollow, too sparse, and too undercooked.

Are there even any connections to actual tools in this book? This is a bad "how-to" book of digital wankery, written clearly by folks that are strangers to actual tools; like ones that mill, cut, press, drill... you know, actually make stuff. I recommend this book for those who would rather imagine tools than actually use them.

If you just started to dive into the world of algorithmic architecture, this is a great book to have. The graphics are great, the layout is clean and attractive and the concepts are very valid.

as an architect, i find this book fascinating. but it is not in any way limited to the practice of architecture. its relevance extends to all fields of design, and probably into fields of which i am not familiar. its a 'must have' in my opinion.

This book provides a general idea about scripting and algorithmic design to those interested in this new medium of design in architecture. I personally have known the authors and they're experts in this field.

The book updates the latest trend and concept of architectural actions. I find it very useful tool to have.

this is one of those rare species of books through which one can explore new avenues. Totally beneficial