Exploring cellular automata for high density residential building form generation

• This paper reflects on the theoretical framework of cellular automata (CA) in the design of high density housing.
• We focus on the implementation of a tool to develop a three-dimensional model that deals with architectural requirements.
• We explore the potential of diagrammatic descriptions to address density, accessibility and natural light criteria.
• We extend the dynamical behavior of classical CA through the versatility of cell properties.
• We accommodate generative and conventional design procedures to promise programmatic and spatial requirements.

This paper presents an investigation into the integration of cellular automata in the architectural design process, specifically in the design of high density residential building forms. Addressing the complexity of cellular automata rule definition, we explore the potential of visual and diagrammatic descriptions to address density, accessibility and natural light in the architectural context. This paper reflects on the theoretical framework of cellular automata (CA) and what characterizes their application to architectural design. The intention is to develop a tool to support the adaptation of architectural requirements into CA principles. Focusing on the application of CA at the beginning of the design process, we outline the implementation of CA generating three-dimensional architectural form for a high density residential project in the Netherlands.