CAD: Where Art and Science Meet
By Austin Brentley
Architecture school received a massive makeover when computer aided design software (CAD) hit the scene. In many ways, this innovative technology changed architecture the way the calculator changed traditional mathematics. School curricula were able to expand dramatically as a result of CAD software. It revolutionized the way that buildings were invented, designed, and constructed.
The Early Days of Architecture School
In the old days of architecture school, students relied primarily on pencil and paper. They would test out different ideas by mapping them out as blueprints, running complex physics calculations, and praying that their creations were structurally sound. But only by constructing the building could they ever be 100% certain. As you can imagine, this was an extremely laborious and tedious process that left a lot of room for error - errors that could prove fatal at times. This all changed when CAD software came along. Architecture school was forever changed.
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What Exactly is CAD Software?
In a nutshell, CAD software allows architecture school students (and other professionals) to test out different ideas on a computer. The programs can simulate different variables (example: wind, slope, weather, and soil density) to see if a new creation will be able to survive in different scenarios. Some of the more advanced architecture schools have systems that can actually simulate natural disasters like earthquakes and floods.
Architecture Schools of Today
As you can imagine, recent graduates of architecture school are equipped to handle far more situations than one could have just 10 years ago. And the best part is, technology has a way of growing exponentially, so it's a pretty good bet that architecture school graduates of tomorrow will be able to produce even more dazzling, innovative designs.
About the Author
A freelance writer and researcher, Austin Brentley is an English teacher currently living and working in Yamaguchi, Japan. His previous experience includes working for a lobbying firm in his native Washington, DC and working for various record and television studios in New York. Austin holds a B.A. in history from Harvard University.
