Advancing architecture: Form-finding of architectural forms using comprehensive multi-objective optimization

Today's architecture increasingly features complex, free-form buildings, facilitated by parametric design. Yet, these forms face significant challenges. In the current global energy crisis, early-stage optimization of free-forms for energy performance is essential. Also, digital fabrication, often required for such complex geometries, should be integrated into their form-finding. Furthermore, the distinct aesthetics of free-forms demand attention during form-finding. However, there is a lack in integrating these objectives in form-finding of free-forms. This paper presents and applies a comprehensive multi-objective optimization framework for the form-finding of a free-form building. Case study results show improvement in minimizing fa & ccedil;ade surface area, minimizing incident solar radiation in summer, and maximizing it in winter by 2.25%, 1.7%, and 1.4% respectively, compared to baseline form. Additionally, all fa & ccedil;ade panels are flat, and aesthetics are considered. These findings underscore the framework's potential to generate energy-efficient, rationalized, and aesthetically appealing parametric forms that meet the demands of contemporary architecture.