Trends and developments in computational design and nature-based approaches in architecture: a bibliometric analysis

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26439/limaq2026.n017.7842

Keywords:

computational design, biomimicry, parametric design, sustainable architecture, bibliometrics, interdisciplinary collaboration, advanced technologies, architectural innovation

Abstract

Architectural design has undergone a substantial shift over the past two decades, driven by the adoption of computational technologies and the integration of nature- inspired principles. This bibliometric study examines 415 articles indexed in the Web of Science database, identifying key patterns across computational, parametric, generative, and biomimetic design research. The findings show a marked increase in publications since 2015, suggesting a growing effort to align sustainability goals with advanced technological methods. However, the effective implementation of this alignment varies depending on project type and geographic context, and in many cases still lacks robust empirical validation.

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Author Biographies

  • Marcelo Fraile Narváez, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, España

    Doctor en Arquitectura por la Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), máster en Conservación y Rehabilitación del Patrimonio Arquitectónico por la Universidad Nacional de Córdoba (UNC) y arquitecto graduado en la Universidad Nacional de Tucumán. Está especializado en diseño digital (UBA). Ha enseñado en instituciones como la Universidad de Costa Rica, la Universidad Internacional de Cataluña y la Universidad Internacional de La Rioja (UNIR). Fue director académico del máster universitario en Espacios Inteligentes (UNIR) y coordinador en programas de posgrado en España. Ha sido becado para investigaciones en diseño biodigital y fabricación digital. Fue funcionario del Ministerio de Cultura de Buenos Aires (2007-2015) y director de la revista TRP21. Actualmente, es profesor en la Universidad Rey Juan Carlos.

  • Nadia McGowan, Universidad Internacional de La Rioja, España

    Doctora internacional en Comunicación Audiovisual, Publicidad y Relaciones Públicas (cum laude, premio extraordinario). Actualmente, forma parte del Vicerrectorado de Transferencia de la Universidad Internacional de La Rioja y es investigadora principal del grupo de investigación VIVID (Visual, Virtual and Interactive Design).

References

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Published

2026-04-27

Issue

Section

Convocatoria permanente

How to Cite

Fraile Narváez, M., & McGowan, N. (2026). Trends and developments in computational design and nature-based approaches in architecture: a bibliometric analysis. Limaq, 017, 237-264. https://doi.org/10.26439/limaq2026.n017.7842

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