Abstract

The paper presents a framework to develop participatory urban design decision-making interfaces for the early stage of design. We produce a parametric integrated system to generate urban configurations that relate to functional areas, land-divisions, construction cost and possible revenue. We speculate this kind of interface can engage stakeholders in urban design decision-making processes. The paper presents instruments to cater urban parameters according to the interests of the designer and need of the design context. As a proof of concept, we have tested the interface in a low-density suburb of Wellington, New Zealand. We conclude the paper with an overview of our virtual design communication instruments that offer further participatory engagement throughout an urban design process.

Keywords: Parametric urban design; Decision-making; Virtual reality; Urban form