Parametricism examined: The controversial architecture style and its ties to neoliberalism

Summary

Owen Hopkins introduces a new Dezeen series on Parametricism, the controversial architectural style billed by its originator as the defining style of the 21st century. The article explores how Parametricism uses algorithmic design and computational processes to create complex, fluid forms, and critically examines its relationship with neoliberalism. It traces the style's origins from digital architecture pioneers like Greg Lynn to Patrik Schumacher (Zaha Hadid Architects' principal), who coined the term and promoted it as a universal design paradigm. The piece discusses both the aesthetic ambitions of Parametricism and the critiques that it represents the architecture of neoliberal capitalism itself, raising questions about its social and political implications.