Reinterpreting Traditional Windows Lattices Patterns in Contemporary Design through Parametric Design and Digital Fabrication

Windows’ lattice patterns are essential parts of traditional Chinese garden architecture in
Suzhou, as they boast unique artistic charm and profound cultural connotations.
Furthermore, classical lattices have been widely applied in contemporary design. Existing
research mainly focuses on the design principles of lattices themselves, such as ice-ray
lattice patterners. However, the selection of lattice patterns is often based on subjective
perceptions of designers without specific criteria. Therefore, this paper intends to take the
daylighting performance of windows’ lattices as a reference criterion for designers to
choose their types. Parametric design has been demonstrated to perform well in timber
design and sustainability analysis, while robotic fabrication excels in accurately
assembling complex standard timber designs. This research introduces a file-to-
fabrication workflow to assist the designer in selecting suitable lattices in contemporary
design and accurately assembling their design. A landscape wall composed of a selected
lattice pattern is used to identify the feasibility of the workflow.