Book Review of Digital Fabrication in Architecture by Nick Dunn. Reviewed by Martha González Palacios

Martha González Palacios

Humanities Commons

Copyright © 2012 ARLIS/NA   Digital Fabrication in Architecture, by Nick Dunn. Laurence King, September 2012. 192 p. ill. ISBN 9781856698917 (pbk.), $40.00.  Author Nick Dunn provides a good overview and introduction to digital technologies currently available to architects. By focusing on the kind of architectural design that would have not been feasible or even imaginable using more traditional means, Dunn highlights the possibilities that these technologies and techniques have brought forward beyond simply improving speed or efficiency.  The book is well organized and includes table of contents, index, footnotes, and picture credits. The introduction includes a brief history and description of the book's structure and is probably the weakest section, but it is short enough that it is easy to move on to the meat of the matter.   The main text is arranged in a logical sequence where each of its three parts, “Generation,” “Integration,” and “Strategies,” builds upon the previous. Each section is clearly organized starting with an introduction followed by numbered subsections that address the different technologies, aspects, or approaches. The main text is supported by relevant images that show a wide variety of projects from around the world. These include screenshots, renderings, and photographs from components' details to urban grids. Also interspersed throughout the book are case studies and step-by-step features that help further explain, illustrate, and contextualize the technologies, techniques, and processes discussed in writing. The book closes with a brief conclusion section followed by a glossary that could be more substantial and a very useful list of further reading.   The range of projects covered by case studies and other examples is quite impressive including the work of world-renowned architects and firms like Zaha Hadid and OMA, and emerging designers, as well as thesis and dissertation projects. The later could be better identified to include at least the students' institution although one could assume that these are works of the author's students at the Manchester School of Architecture. Also missing is a way to identify images that are merely used for graphic design purposes, such as those on title pages, which also constitute examples that could be of interest to the reader. In contrast, Dunn does an excellent job in providing enough relevant information in a concise and succinct manner for images within each section with a style of writing consistent through the book.   This is a heavily-illustrated work that shows not only the author's comprehension of the subject but also an understanding of his audience. Dunn’s approach is systematic and pragmatic. It explores the great potential of using digital technology not only for representation but also to continuously push the boundaries of design, fabrication, and construction. In doing that, it serves as a source of inspiration for designers.  Martha González Palacios, Librarian, Architecture and Planning Library, The University of Texas at Austin, martha.gonzalez@austin.utexas.edu  

Digital Fabrication in Architecture

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Digital Fabrication in Architecture

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