In order to define how parametricism is influencing today's architecture, I consider it important

to try to define parametricism in a simple manner. There are many definitions and theories, and
there is of course the obvious answer that parametricism is architecture born out of the
optimization of parameters, or the conclusion that it has it's roots in the digital animation
tehniques of the 1990s (according to Patrik Schumacher in "Parametricism - A New Global Style
for Architecture and Urban Design" - www.patrikschumacher.com ), but these elements are
really not enough to define this new style. Parametricism is a style that permits inspiration from
nature, mathematics, programming and basically any other source, while optimizing the desired
design.

The Bridge of Aspiration, London, http://www.1000lonelyplaces.com/tourist-

destination/european-travel-destination/the-bridge-of-aspiration-london-england-get-inspired/

After an era where architectural form was dictated by the "minimum" - minimum
ornamentation, use of space or of funds, when architecture has become involved in only
considering the balance between these three elements (which might be correct, but
incomplete), parametricism is allowing architecture to regain it's individualism and aesthethic
appeal, while the use of parametric software allows architects an intelligent approach to design.
Structural and formal elements such as beams or windows are now being used almost as
ornaments, being possible to create patterns or shapes by playing with their position or
direction.
Optimization of beams using Grasshopper and Karamba plug-ins, www.karamba3d.com

Allthough the first name that pops into mind when we think of parametricism is Zaha Hadid, we
are now witnessing use of parametric elements from more conservative firms such as Herzog &
de Meuron or Norman Foster, with examples like attractor generated patterns or diagrid
structures. It is uncertain for me whether this is an assumed decision or just a natural
consequence of the digital software used, but the idea is that parametricism is becoming a
cultural wide-spread phenomenon.

Norman Foster, 30 St Mary Axe - "The Gherkin" , www.az.co.uk

Herzog & De Meuron facade ,http://media-cache-
ec0.pinimg.com/originals/d8/90/7f/d8907f540641af386db5d3cccc905774.jpg

The beauty of parametricism is it's versatile mannerism - since parameters are the natural way of
defining objects, mechanisms, systems and basically anything else, it is only logical that whatever
the inspiration source, parametricism can be applied to it. By changing and playing with the
parameters that define an architectural object, we are easily subjected to a higher multitude of
variations than ever before. Due to this, architecture is going through a transitional phase, one of
renowal and revolutionary views.

Another characteristic that defines parametricism as an influential style nowadays is the fact that
it can not only be applied to any idea, but to any physical object : such as any other style that
implemented itself into history, parametricism is transitioning from architecture to industrial and
interior design, urbanism or even scenography. Additionally, there is an increasing number of
function-less installations, created only to test software improvement, material behavior or
form's aesthethic. More so , because parametricism is a style that heavily depends on digital
fabrication, it's spread is highly helped by the virtual environment.
Tex Fab Installation, http://blog.archpaper.com/wordpress/archives/59514#.VCdsevl_vpU

However, I consider that the greatest challenge when working with parameters in a digital
matter is keeping a healthy balance between taking advantage of the power of the software, and
not limit ourselves to outdated, overly simple designs, and not exagerating the deviation of the
simple, natural shapes.

It is hard to determine whether parametricism will change the face of architecture as we know
it, but for sure we are witnessing many architectural firms embracing if not a parametric style,
for sure parametric elements in the design of their buildings and in other fields related to
architecture and art, therefore I conclude that parametricism is a style that will weight on
architectural history from now on and that it has greatly influenced architecture as it is in the
present.