A morphological study of fivefold Islamic geometric patterns using formal grammar for computer-aided design applications

• Published in: International journal of architectural computing Vol. 22; no. 3; pp. 295 - 322
• Main Authors: Refalian, Ghazal, Coloma, Eloi, Moya, Joaquim Narcis
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London, England SAGE Publications 01.09.2024
• Subjects: formal grammar; shape grammar; computational design; L-system; parallel rewriting system; Islamic geometric pattern; parametric design
• ISSN: 1478-0771; 2048-3988
• DOI: 10.1177/14780771231203358

This paper presents a morphological study of Islamic geometric patterns (IGP) and their role in application of formal grammar in computational modeling of IGPs. Through a comprehensive literature review and data collection, we analyze the morphological properties of these patterns using techniques such as geometric transformations, pattern classification, and symmetry analysis. Based on our findings, we explore how these properties can be used in constructing a formal grammar through string rewriting system for a CAD application. Building on a study on the potential of a string rewriting system for modeling IGPs, the current research suggests an update to the previous system and introduces a new morphological structure for IGPs. The new method has an expanded sample set and is tested on a class of 5-fold star patterns with 12 members and demonstrates successful development. The results are implemented in a Grasshopper add-on, providing a flexible platform to generate the patterns through strings and to control their parameters. This tool opens up new possibilities to bridge traditional patterns with contemporary technologies and make them more accessible. Furthermore, it contributes to the preservation of IGPs as a significant cultural and architectural heritage, while also advancing the evolution of these patterns to a new and contemporary generation.