What software will I need to use for this course?

You will use Rhinoceros 3D and its integrated visual programming platform, Grasshopper 3D

Do I need any prior experience with Grasshopper or 3D modeling to enroll?

No previous knowledge of the software is required, as the course is designed for absolute beginners.

What core computational design and data management concepts will I learn?

You will learn to develop computational thinking by creating algorithms, using data lists, trees, domains, series, and ranges to manage, randomize, and filter geometry.

What specific practical modeling exercises and projects are included in the curriculum?

You will complete hands-on exercises ranging from multi-cylinder modeling and custom 3D trusses to custom pattern mapping and designing a parametric organic pavilion.

What practical outcomes can I expect by the end of the course?

You will develop a strong foundation in visual scripting, enabling you to build algorithm-driven models, control complex geometries parametrically, and apply color data visualization to your designs.

Full Access Pre-Recorded Mar 19, 2025 3 Hours Beginner

Grasshopper3D for Beginners 101

Name: Grasshopper3D for Beginners 101
Price: 30.00 EUR
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5.00 (2 reviews)

Grasshopper3D for Beginners 101 is a course on PAACADEMY that introduces parametric design and computational thinking using Grasshopper, the visual programming tool integrated with Rhinoceros 3D. Starting from core concepts, participants learn to build algorithms structured as Inputs–Code–Output, work with data lists and trees, organize and remap data, and create 3D organic structures. The course progresses from generating multiple cylinders parametrically to building custom patterns and a parametric pavilion using surface-based logic and Graph Mapper curves.

Ignacio Revenga

Verified Account

3 courses5.0

About Grasshopper3D for Beginners 101

Grasshopper is a visual programming tool integrated with Rhinoceros 3D, a popular software for 3D modeling. Unlike traditional design tools, Grasshopper allows you to create complex geometries and parametric structures through algorithms instead of manual modeling.

Grasshopper lets you control geometry parametrically, enabling you to design complex forms by manipulating underlying parameters. This approach opens new possibilities for innovation, from generative design to responsive architecture.

By the end of this course you will have a strong foundation in Grasshopper and the basics of computational thinking and parametric design to create a dynamic, flexible, and innovative architectural solutions.

What you will learn

Develop a Computational Thinking design process.
Produce Algorithms structured in Inputs - Code - Output
Create inputs from Rhino and Grasshopper and combine them
Create Data Lists / Trees to control Multiple Geometries
Organize, Randomize, and Remap Data
Manage and Filter Data and Geometry
Color Data Visualization
3D Organic Structures

Methodology

This course will teach the foundational concepts of Grasshopper and how to create simple parametric models. As the course advances, these models will grow in complexity, introducing participants to more sophisticated algorithms and advanced techniques for controlling geometry and data.

Through practical exercises, you'll develop computational thinking and learn to create and organize algorithms. This course will deepen your understanding of Grasshopper, moving from basic concepts to more advanced techniques.

Program of the course:

Exercises 1 & 2 - From Single to Multiple cylinders

Generating intrinsic geometry in Grasshopper
Control of geometry properties based on established parameters Generation of multiple elements simultaneously.
Generation and control of data list using Series, Range, Domain
Modify the order of the data list using Jitter
Visualization of results by color based on Data using Gradient

Exercise 3 & 4 - Custom patterns & Parametric Pavilion

Custom patterns
Surface-based on pattern
Triangular and Dual Graph Grid
Curves by controlling points using Graph Mapper
Organic surface using revolution along axis
Apply Custom Pattern into Organic surfaces
Generate 3D Patterns

Knowledge Requirements

What you should already know or have ready before you start, experience, tools, and any baseline skills the instructors expect. Scan the list below so nothing catches you off guard.

No previous knowledge of the software is required. You will learn everything in the course.

Course Content

10 Lessons

Important Notes

The “Grasshopper Fundamentals for Architects” course by PAACADEMY has a total of 10 Sessions
Each session and the entire course is recorded, and videos will be available for participants right away.
PAACADEMY will provide a certificate of attendance.

Software & tools

Rhinoceros 3D

Grasshopper 3D

Highlights

Instructors

Ignacio Revenga

3 Courses5.0

Ignacio Revenga is a Spanish architect based in New York and holds a Master's in Architecture from ETSAM - Higher Technical School of Architecture of Madrid, Polytechnic University
He is the founder of Topomorpho, a design lab specializing in computational protocols and experimental architecture through emerging technologies and computational thinking.
His work dissolves the boundaries between art and architecture through complex geometries inspired by nature and form-finding methods. By integrating mathematics, physical simulations, and biomimicry, he develops architectural solutions that evoke poetic atmospheres, which he refers to as heterotopias.

Part of his research has been published in architecture magazines such as UPM and COAM, contributing to the discourse on computational thinking applied to architecture.
He has collaborated with educational institutions such as the Polytechnic University of Madrid and Pratt Institute of New York and has worked with renowned international firms like Caza or Theverymany, among others, on projects across the United States, Colombia, the Philippines, and Japan. His work has been recognized and published in Architizer A+Awards, Dezeen, Rethinking the Future, German Design Awards, Archilovers, The Plan, Archello, AIA NY News, Design Icons, BluPrint, Goood, AasArchitecture.

Grasshopper3D for Beginners 101 FAQ

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Reviews

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5.0avg2 Reviews

2 Comments

Geddy Lee

Very useful!

Jun 24, 2025

Luca

Really great course

May 20, 2025