  This paper presents a methodology and software tools for parametric design of
complex architectural objects, called digital or algorithmic forms. In order to
provide a flexible tool, the proposed design philosophy involves two open
source utilities Donkey and MIDAS written in Grasshopper algorithm editor and
C++, respectively, that are to be linked with a scripting-based architectural
modellers Rhinoceros, IntelliCAD and the open source Finite Element solver
OOFEM. The emphasis is put on the mechanical response in order to provide
architects with a consistent learning framework and an insight into structural
behaviour of designed objects. As demonstrated on three case studies, the
proposed modular solution is capable of handling objects of considerable
structural complexity, thereby accelerating the process of finding procedural
design parameters from orders of weeks to days or hours.
