FAQ | The Open Window Studio

Question 1

1. What is computational design?

Accepted Answer

Computational design uses algorithms, parameters, and data-driven workflows as a design medium. Rather than producing a single fixed solution, it enables the exploration and evolution of multiple design outcomes based on intent, constraints, and performance.

Question 2

2. How is this different from traditional architectural design?

Accepted Answer

Traditional workflows often progress linearly. Computational design is iterative and systems-based, allowing design decisions to respond dynamically to environmental, structural, material, and spatial inputs throughout the process.

Question 3

3. Do you only work on architectural projects?

Accepted Answer

No. While architecture is central to our practice, we also work on landscape, interior environments, installations, research projects, and experimental prototypes—across scales and disciplines.

Question 4

4. At what stage of a project can you get involved?

Accepted Answer

We can engage at any stage: Early concept and form exploration; Design development and performance optimization; Technical detailing, fabrication logic, and documentation. Early involvement allows the greatest impact, but we also integrate into ongoing projects.

Question 5

5. Do you replace architects or consultants?

Accepted Answer

No. We collaborate with architecture studios, environmental consultants, structural designers, and researchers. Our role is to augment existing expertise through computational thinking.

Question 6

6. Do collaborators need to know coding or parametric tools?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. We translate computational logic into clear design insights, enabling teams without a computational background to engage meaningfully with the process.

Question 7

7. Is your work driven by algorithms or design intent?

Accepted Answer

Design intent always comes first. Algorithms are tools for exploration, testing, and refinement—not substitutes for architectural judgement or intuition.

Question 8

8. Can computational design support sustainability and performance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Computational workflows allow early-stage testing of environmental performance, material efficiency, and structural behavior, enabling more climate-responsive and resource-efficient design decisions.

Question 9

9. How do you ensure design quality in parametric systems?

Accepted Answer

Outputs are continuously evaluated and curated. While systems generate possibilities, architectural judgement guides selection, refinement, and resolution.

Question 10

10. Can your workflows adapt to design changes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Parametric systems are inherently adaptable. Changes in brief, constraints, or performance criteria can be integrated without restarting the design process.

Question 11

11. Do you provide fabrication-ready outputs?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We deliver fabrication-aware models, detailed drawings, and digital fabrication support, bridging design intent with construction logic.

Question 12

12. Do you develop custom tools or scripts?

Accepted Answer

When required, we create custom parametric definitions, scripts, or workflows that teams can use, adapt, and extend beyond a single project.

Question 13

13. Do you work on research or academic projects?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Research is integral to our practice. We collaborate with academic institutions, researchers, and independent practitioners on design research, prototypes, and experimental explorations.

Question 14

14. How do you approach collaboration and authorship?

Accepted Answer

Collaboration is transparent and dialogue-driven. Authorship and intellectual property are clearly discussed at the outset, respecting existing design ownership while defining computational contributions.

Question 15

15. How can we start a collaboration?

Accepted Answer

Reach out via email or WhatsApp through the Contact page with a brief description of your project, goals, and current stage. We'll respond with how we can best support your work.