48-724 Scripting and Parametric Design
9 units, Carnegie Mellon University
This course prepares students for modeling geometry through scripted development of parametric schemes primarily for design applications that is, to introduce students to basic scripting in geometrical modeling environment with a focus on algorithms relating to form making and to reinforce and extend basic concepts of parametric modeling. Contemporary approaches to modeling geometry are computational reflected in designers wanting much more control over the generative process by varying parameters, in turn, enhancing the efficiency with which they navigate design variations, analyze design artifacts and explore design manifestations. This course has two parts: firstly, to supply the basics of object-oriented programming and algorithmic thinking using Python language constructs, and secondly, to supply the basics of scripting generative form making specifically, by customizing procedures for generative design via scripts in GhPython in conjunction with Rhino/Grasshopper objects. A number of different form-making algorithms are explored, e.g., fractals, rule-based models, cellular models, agent- based models, and optimization- based models. The course consists of lectures, computer instruction and weekly assignments. Prior exposure to Rhino/Grasshopper is required.
Prerequisites: none listed
Offered: Fall 2026, Fall 2025
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