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This workshop explores how scissor-based geometry and Grasshopper can transform patterns into adaptive architectural systems.
2 courses5.0
Adaptive and deployable systems are opening new possibilities in architecture by enabling spaces and structures to transform in response to different needs and conditions. Behind these dynamic behaviors lies geometry - not simply as a way to create form, but as a system that can generate movement.
In this workshop, participants will explore how scissor-based geometry can be used to design transformable architectural systems through computational design. Starting from the fundamental principles of scissor mechanisms, we will gradually build parametric models in Grasshopper and investigate how geometric patterns can evolve into deployable and adaptive structures.
Grasshopper was chosen for this workshop because it allows designers to work directly with geometric relationships, test different design variations, and simulate movement in an intuitive visual environment. Instead of repeatedly rebuilding models, participants will learn how to develop flexible systems that can be modified, explored, and refined throughout the design process.
By the end of the workshop, participants will have created their own deployable geometric system and gained a practical workflow applicable to responsive architecture, kinetic structures, and other computational design projects.
Understand the basic logic and geometric principles of scissor-based deployable systems
Model and control scissor mechanisms through parametric workflows in Grasshopper
Create flexible geometric systems by defining relationships between form, movement, and parameters
Explore how repetitive patterns can be transformed into deployable architectural structures
This workshop focuses on the design of adaptive and deployable architectural systems using scissor-based geometry and parametric modeling. Rather than developing a single predefined project, participants will learn a computational workflow applicable to a wide range of design applications, from kinetic pavilions and transformable canopies to responsive façades and experimental spatial installations.
Participants will build parametric scissor units, study their geometric behavior, and combine them into deployable systems capable of controlled transformation. Through a series of guided exercises, they will learn how to organize geometric relationships, define movement through parametric constraints, and generate different design variations from a single computational model.
By the end of the workshop, each participant will have developed a fully parametric, deployable system, along with a design concept demonstrating how the workflow can be adapted to different architectural scales and applications.
The workshop follows a step-by-step, hands-on computational design workflow that combines geometric exploration, parametric modeling, and design development.
1. Introduction to Scissor-Based Geometry
2. Parametric Modeling in Grasshopper
3. Developing Deployable Geometric Systems
4. Design Exploration and Computational Workflow
Day 1 - Understanding and Modeling Scissor-Based Systems
Day 2 - From Geometric Patterns to Adaptive Transformations
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.
Curriculum will be published soon.
Ladan Vojdanzadeh is an architect and educator with over a decade of experience in teaching transformable design systems, particularly scissor-like mechanisms. Her academic and professional work focuses on exploring the intersection of geometry, motion, and algorithmic logic in the field of architecture.Ladan has taught over 20 workshops, authored a book on transformable structures, and worked in architectural design and supervision on different projects.She currently teaches courses related to advanced structures and computational design, integrating Grasshopper into her methodical, step-by-step approach to algorithmic modeling.
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