Contemporary Techniques in Architecture by Ali Rahim

Ali Rahim makes the argument from his point of view that contemporary architecture is capable of existing in a symbiotic relationship with the user through multi dimensional programmatic applications of it's usable space. In order to develop a refined solution at the construction phase of the design process, an iterative series of events must take place that studies the physical context, as well as the qualitative spectrum of human actions that could influence the space on a given occasion. He argues that while some in the profession may utilize digital means as a tool for greater efficiency, his personal paradigm is to harness the capabilities of digital technology in order to strength of the depth and adaptability of contracted designs to contemporary culture. He also argues that architecture can be a catalyst for altering the habits of the individuals who typically interact with the architecture through the modification of their typical behavior. This is achieved through the iterative process of manipulating the form of the building to adapt to the pressures that have been predetermined by the environment and the design team. The buildings' profile not only adapts to the human inhabitants, but also the flora and fauna that pose boundaries and opportunities for adaptive programming and building performance enhancement.

When reading this article, I was reminded of a principle presented by Lebbeus Woods in his book, "Envisioning Architecture," where he urges contemporary designers to expand their interests beyond that of architecture. Woods himself was keen on cybernetics, which can be understood through the expression of much of his work.

Neil Denari worked for Airbus after graduating from architecture school, and the time spent in the airline industry can be clearly read among the exterior detailing of his facades, wrapping skins, structural systems and inset glazing motifs.

I would suggest, after conducting a brief background search of Ali Rahim, that he allow his external interests beyond architecture to influence the projects he's apart of, since it's an unconvincing argument that we as architects have the pedagogy of an anthropologist, and should be "deciding" the path of those within generically programed spaced, meaning those spaces which aren't in need of overt circulation separation plans. (i.e. Airports, racetracks). Their seems to be an air of premature enlightenment concerning the manipulation of human order, which is masked by a remedial understanding of digital technology instead of a comprehensive study of human activity, which I might argue would he impossible to achieve. These types of design interventions seem to be more successful at the micro scale, such as in the work of Kram Weisshaar's Breeding Tables project. When working within the confines of a predetermined space that must reside within a larger entity, the constraints of the project can be simply rationalized, and the resulting product is then judged relative to the multitude of iterations that take place through the algorithmic medium.