What It Means

Generative design is a digital process where software explores a vast range of design solutions based on user-defined goals, constraints, and data inputs. Using algorithms and artificial intelligence, it automatically generates optimized options that meet performance, cost, material, or spatial requirements.

Why It Matters

Generative design unlocks a new level of design efficiency and innovation. It allows architects and engineers to test thousands of options quickly—balancing aesthetics, function, sustainability, and budget. It enables better-informed decisions at the front end of a project.

Best Practices

• Use in the conceptual design phase for layout, massing, or site planning.
• Define clear goals (e.g., daylight, views, adjacency) before generation.
• Integrate performance simulations to filter and refine options.
• Apply human review and design intent to guide final selection
  
  
  

Real-World Use

Design teams use generative design in the early stages of planning to optimize layouts for offices, residential buildings, and site planning. By inputting criteria like square footage targets, circulation efficiency, and environmental factors, they rapidly generate viable concepts before committing to one direction.
However, Generative design is best suited for conceptual exploration. It is less effective in later phases such as design development or construction documents, where precise detailing, technical coordination, and compliance take priority over iteration.

In Simple Terms

It’s like giving your software a problem to solve—then watching it come up with hundreds of options in minutes. You pick the best one, then move forward with real-world detailing.