Prefabricating the Terraced Houses in Malaysia using Parametric Design

 Introduction   


Keywords: terraced houses, parametric design, computational, prefabrication

This study is an illustration of how terraced houses in Malaysia could benefit from the use of parametric design process throughout its development. Existing issues related to housing are a result of inefficient design processes and outdated technology in the building industry that must be addressed. In order to understand this issue, the development of terraced houses is reviewed based on the author’s experience whilst highlighting the crucial facts for the advantage of the new parametric approach.



By learning from the vernacular architecture such as the Traditional Malay houses, elements of design concepts are valuable to the current housing industry while existing practice of terraced houses design lacks in the innovation of spatial configuration and construction methods. Thus the paper discusses the benefits of using parametric design and computational approach in the design process of Architects as well as in the construction works. It goes on to provide practical examples of parametric projects and feasible building production technology used elsewhere that is exceptionally efficient.

The paper continues to provide relevant ideas relating to the topic of parametric such as the use of algorithm and codebased scripting cultures. However, the paper attempts to demonstrate computational design beyond the perception of merely a drafting tool but offering assistance to Architects in design thinking. Detail analysis of ideas suggests the appropriate solutions that are applicable to the context of terraced houses in Malaysia to the advantage of sustainability, socially and needs. The paper concludes that parametric design in the computational approach has the potentials to transform the practice of terraced houses development in the future.

 Reference to the Study. 

Aiman has since received his Ph.D. award in January 2019.
This dissertation was submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of MSc Sustainable Architectural Studies in 2012.

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