Algorithmic vernacular: a generative design process for hillside settlements and dwellings, optimized for siting, access and prefabricated construction

Dwellings on hillsides require complex design and construction techniques, resulting in low productivity and high cost. Urban hillsides often feature low-density individual houses with private gardens or high-density informal settlement with lack of green spaces and compromised liveability. By contrast, densely built historic hill-towns are admired in the context of tourism for their setting and spatial coherence. This article proposes a design process, which combines design knowledge and parametric design. The research employs a mixed methodology, combining design research, computer simulation, and case study. Based on dwelling design and aspects of fabrication/installation, a shape grammar of dwelling modules is developed, which are set-out and combined with a rule-based, generative design algorithm. The process allows for the design of high-density settlements, comprising low-rise dwellings, with topography and principles of serial construction as design generators. The resulting two-stage parametric design tool is tested and refined on a case-study site in Wellington (NZ).