Mad Digital Materialities

This article presents the development of a parametric and algorithmic design course at a School of Architecture and Design with a strong tradition rooted in the 'Designer Author' paradigm inherited from the Beaux Arts. It analyzes current and contextual themes of the course while conducting an overview of its evolution since its inception. The article also addresses the paradigm shift implications of parametric and algorithmic design within the contexts of architectural and industrial design. Teaching methodologies are examined, and student work results are analyzed. Lastly, the discussion encompasses aspects related to algorithmic model development and the debate on the importance of process versus product. Among other topics, there is debate surrounding authorship and algorithm development derived from tutorials.