Can the computer be a creative tool in the early phases of architectural design? Despite rapidly advancing digitization, analog design tools – from freehand sketches to models – shape the initial development of architectural ideas. At this stage, the computer is not yet part of the equation. It is detached from the design activity, and only put to use in the next step, for calculating, analyzing, simulating and presenting concrete ideas.
Gerhard Schubert analyzes this discrepancy and examines basic human-computer interaction methods and design tools, as well as the conditions that structure the interaction of these two actors, human and computer. Based on this, Gerhard Schubert has developed a solution for a new computer-based design system: The system concept CDP // Collaborative Design Platform offers a direct link between the physical and digital worlds. Instead of completely replacing designers’ established working methods, the system seamlessly couples familiar analog tools with digital design-supporting tools. The computer thus becomes a creative Design Decision Support, even in earliest design phases.
