“Architecture begins where engineering

ends”-Walter Gropius. This research paper

aims to discuss digital architecture in
Pakistan. It’s scope, opportunities,
challenges and implementation. It
highlights the current situation of digital
architecture in Pakistan and also paints a
picture of what to expect in future related
to this.

DIGITAL
ARCHITECTURE IN
PAKISTAN
GROUP-7
2019-ARCH-14 Muhammad Tayyab

2019-ARCH-17 Haseeb Noor

2019-ARCH-21 Zain ul Hassan

2019-ARCH-22 Meeral Maqbool

2019-ARCH-24 Ameera Mughal

2019-ARCH-47 Zain M Rana

Researchers: Muhammad Tayyab, Haseeb Noor, Zain-ul-Hassan, Meeral
Maqbool, Ameera Mughal and Zain Rana
Year of research: 2022
Presentation Title: Digital architecture in Pakistan: Scope, Opportunities,
Challenges and Implementation
Research focus: Digital architecture’s status in Pakistan
School: University of Engineering and Technology
Student Level: Undergraduate
Presentation Type: Research article

Abstract:
Digital architecture is the emerging field that features the use of digital technology
in the architectural design process. Pakistan, a developing country faces many issues
in this field of architecture. Our manual labor is being replaced by computers when
we try to talk to nearby architects concerning virtual generation and sits software in
Pakistan past and its present use, they puzzled by how one makes use of the
generation whilst there's no call for it. There are no regulatory requirements and no
exploring activities in the profession of architecture in Pakistan, thus there won't be
any change anytime soon, particularly in the area of building. Some architects also
believe that spending too much time on model creation diverts attention away from
developing the actual design content. Implementing a new era in an old era is a time-
consuming task, but it reduces additional effort and makes project solutions easier
to find.
This paper aims to discuss the status of digital architecture in Pakistan and analyze
its potential. It also targets to understand the opportunities and potential challenges
that arise with its emergence in Pakistan. Research was done using both qualitative
and quantitative analysis for the best results. For students, diploma holders, civil
engineers, architects, contractors, labourers, and masons, a questionnaire was
created. Two hundred persons of various ages, educational backgrounds, and
degrees of architectural expertise made up the sample size used for the
questionnaires. In order to conduct a thorough analysis, the findings were run via
SPSS. Interviews conducted were analyze by Nvivo for precise measurements.
The building industry would be greatly impacted by educating our labour force and
contractors. Architects should also have access to the most modern digital
technologies so that their work is on par with that of other nations. One of the major
challenges faced are the coordination between laborer and architect. Due of labor's
lack of work experience or ignorance of the situation, the architect's plans do not
proceed as intended. These matters will stay as a subject of concern in Pakistan and
only be resolved with the passage of time, better facilities and better education.

Keywords: Digital Architecture, impacts, opportunities, challenges and solutions,

scope, architectural praxis.

1. Introduction:
In the process of creating its architectural designs, digital tools, information, and
technology are used in the discipline of architecture known as "digital architecture."
It aids in conceptualising, developing, and fine-tuning the shape of the architecture.
Implementing digital techniques in Pakistan's conservation and restoration process
presents a number of difficulties. Future periods may bring up a variety of remedies
to this issue, including those related to finances, academic pursuits, a shortage of
software specialists, artisan talent, etc. But in certain cases, problems have been
remedied with the passage of time.
The innovative difficulties and social pressures of architecture in the digital era
cannot be met by the current frameworks of architecture school courses. Both virtual
foam and actual structure were created using computer modelling, programming,
simulation, and imaging. The formation of a model undergoes two things the first
one is a concept and the generation of the concept. In the concept formation, it is an
idea that has virtual importance which then leads to the generation in physical form.
Digital architecture is creating a diversion from practicality by allowing architects
to create ideas that are quite difficult for implementation. Secondly it’s overlapping
the usage of sketches for new ideas.
There is little need for digital architecture in Pakistan since there is a communication
gap between the current generation and the digital generation. How therefore can
this technology be used when there is no need for it? This paper aims to discuss
digital architecture in Pakistan, its scope, opportunities, challenges and
implementation. What can we expect happening in Pakistan’s future architecture? It
also discusses the current status of digital architecture in Pakistan and the
implementation of digital technology in the current times. The main objective of this
paper is to discuss where Pakistan stands with respect to digital architecture now and
what can be hoped for the future. This research started out by reading multiple
research papers that were available and then connecting the dots and relating it to
the status of digital architecture in Pakistan. It will determine if the implementation
of digital architecture will bring about many challenges, economic and social as well.
Moreover, if the implementation of digital architecture in Pakistan will be a threat
to the existing traditional architecture.
2. Literature review:
The phrase "digital architecture" refers to the use of information and communicatio
n technologies during the planning and design stages of a comprehensive architectu
ral structure (Satwiko in Darmawan & Purwanto, 2009). Role of technology in
architecture is becoming significant day by day due to increase in frequency of
computer usage and digital software application of architecture. Architecture is quite
affected due to digitalization because it is allowing architects to create innovative
and complicated design that are sometime completely against the final form of
building. Digital technology is not only for design or planning platform but
nowadays it could also be utilized on the stage of implementation or the product
manufacturing (Allen, 2009).
Theories explain that digital tools in architecture can simply accelerate the design
process and help in creation of aesthetics in architecture through architecture tool
devices and computerised system with pattern formation that is quite more useful
than manual architecture (Koerniawan, 2012). Without a doubt, in these days this
architecture is quite helpful in faster decision making as well as in design procedure.
However, architects need to be addressed that to what extent they should implement
the digitalization and which factors they need to focus on while developing
something creative through digital tools (Koerniawan, 2012).
As the idea of using digital tools and computer sciences in architecture gained
traction in the 1960s, Gordon Park wrote in 1969 about the "architectural
significance of cybernetics" that we should have a discussion about building analysis
before using digital tools to really execute it. The development of digital tools for
planning, explaining, and presenting architecture in visual form occurred in the
1970s and 1980s. The advent of digital technology dates back to 1784, making this
the first revolution in the digital age to be specifically noted. By 1870, industrial
sector mechanization, the second digital revolution had begun, and Cincinnati's
introduction of slaughterhouse production served as a milestone. Since the discovery
of automation between computers and electronics in 1969, which was a turning point
in digital technology, the third revolution has begun. Beginning with the
development of cyber-physical systems, the Internet of Things, and networks, the
fourth digital technological revolution (Koerniawan, 2012). Due to the rapid
advancement of digital architecture technology, architects must innovate not only in
terms of architectural planning and design but also in terms of new software
creations that may help or improve the performance of the architect. (Ekomadyo,
2001).
The primary objective of digital architectural tools is to establish total efficiency
throughout both the planning and implementation stages. The study of digital
architecture technology continues to advance, giving rise to opinions about how the
role of the architect will change in the future in relation to technology, which will
subsequently progressively alter the system and the architect's operating style. (Gell-
Mann in Spiller, 2009) In light of this, it is important to understand how this method
will be used in the future of architecture and architects.
Initially, architects' primarily free-curved techniques were used by designers to
control space. They could only manufacture very basic foam because of tool
limitations in architecture. The mental and biological anguish of human architects is
caused by the profits created throughout the process from observation to imagination
and the limitations the human architect has in the approach from inspiration to
producing. (Liu et al. 2002; Wan et al. 2002). Since the advent of digital tools in
architecture, architectural spaces and forms have undergone constant change as a
result of the introduction of new concepts of space. Humans in the digital age are
now familiar with these new virtual spaces and are beginning to explore suggestions
for the introduction of potential new concepts of space into the real architectural
world.
Three "fundamental components" of virtual worlds have been identified in research
publications that analyse their nature. These three components movements,
interactions, and sonic effects appear in both the verbal and visual groups. Verbally
created virtual space is in mind not physically created. In the digital age, the fields
of architects faced many problems from the client culture that they deserve to the
restriction of government laws, in this way the imagination of architects is
disappeared and silenced. However, all of these limitations are suspended in
cyberspace. Therefore, as time goes on, both real-world and virtual environments
will be crucial for architects to grow. (Liu et al. 2002; Wan et al. 2002).
Therefore, it can be claimed that the latest advancements in digital media have had
an impact on both real and virtual locations. Digital media may enable the hard work
of designers to flourish in both real and virtual locations, allowing both worlds to go
on. As a result, it is simple to transition between real-world and virtual environments,
making the incorporation of both a crucial idea for design in the years to come.
Following the design phase, all folded frames and surfaces as well as all free-curved
plastic surfaces were pre-fabricated; the challenge that arose during project assembly
was a lack of familiarity with labor-related issues that required back-and-forth
discussions between the contractor and designer (Liu et al. 2002; Wan et al. 2002).
Projects become more effective when digital technology are used in the architecture.
The invention of meaning-discovery, gendercide-placements, and infinite input-
output design can only be viable in digital media. A few areas of digital technology
performance that may be improved in architecture include knowledge and
information management, modelling and simulation, computer programming, data-
based research, and multi-media presentation. Both pro and post design provide the
same end result. (Koerniawan, 2012).The advent of the internet and other forms of
communication revolutionised how architecture was practised throughout the world.
To provide a more thorough explanation of digital architecture, we gathered some
information about the work of Peter Eisenman and Frank Gehry. According to Tung,
"digital technology may simply be viewed as a new tool if it has no impact on design
thinking, design methodology, or spatial theory." (Adnan Soni, L, 2009).
Frank Gehry reportedly began producing using digital means in the 1990s,
according to www.wired.com. A brand-new cultural hub for the western Spanish
region of Galicia is called the "City of Culture." A recent article (Mankani, 2009)
paints a very accurate picture of the situation of digital architectural practise in
Pakistan. Building information modelling as a design methodology has not taken
hold in Pakistan. This article makes it apparent that although architects have the
capacity to share data among consultants via a 3D model, other consultants like civil
and MEP experts do not. In Pakistan, digital architecture is believed to be a design
technique. (Mankani, 2009)
It is neither investigated nor understood how Frank Gehry and Peter Eisenman used
digital architecture in their form-making, design technique, construction, or project
management. The time component required in such experimental work is a common
complaint that architects who are attempting to investigate the aforementioned
difficulties hear. The other reason is that modern database programmes require
excessive amounts of data throughout the design and development phases. Some
architects also claim that when one spends too much time creating models, they are
diverted from creating the actual design content. A lack of knowledge about the
possibilities of computers (Artificial Intelligence etc.) communication gap between
the older age and the digital generation. (Adnan Soni, L. 2009).
BIM (Building information modelling) is a process that generates and manages
digital representations of a place's physical and functional properties using a variety
of tools, technologies, and contracts. With BIM technology, architects and designers
can easily access the digital model to conduct more analysis. It was developed as a
means of developing a digital representation of a building project before the real
work began. In addition to foundation support for buildings like stadiums and
bridges, its original uses have grown to cover scheduling, cost control, and operation
and maintenance. The advantages of this technology have contributed to BIM's
widespread adoption in the US and UK markets. (Liu, Xie, Tivendal, & Liu,
2015).Early in the new millennium, building information modelling of development
was introduced to the AEC sector as a means of overcoming low productivity and
barriers to innovation. Through each stage of the project, BIM provided a
collaborative model that connected the physical aspects of the structure. It was a
complex information model that had several dimensions and preserved the symbolic
and abstract meanings of the building's components through qualitative and
quantitative data. (Egan, 1998; Teicholz, 2004).
Because technology is advancing, BIM modelling may now be used to handle
increasingly varied aspects of construction, including degrees of detail, lean
construction, industrialised construction, disaster management systems, emergency
response, building automation, and remote control. Adoption of BIM will benefit the
AEC sector in a number of areas, including cost estimation, fabrication drawings,
conflict and collision detection, etc. BIM helps to achieve project goals of a team in
efficient time with exact numbers (Egan, 1998; Teicholz, 2004).
A benchmark study was previously conducted to look into how BIM benefits were
perceived in the Pakistani construction sector. BIM was shown to be a quicker and
more efficient way for design and construction management, per the findings. The
top three benefits were determined to be raising design quality, raising construction
quality, and decreasing rework during construction. The smallest effects on cost,
time, and human resource savings came from BIM. The most important conclusion
was that architects adopted BIM more frequently than experts in other AEC fields.
It was discovered that Karachi has a greater rate of BIM adoption than the rest of
Pakistan. (Masood et al., 2014)
The use of BIM and its applications, such as "3D coordination," "lighting analysis,"
"design review," and "4D Scheduling," was discovered at companies like Ahmed
Associates and Khatri Associates. On projects supported by foreign organisations in
particular, the use of advanced technology was seen. Peer monitoring mechanisms
were established up for the numerous parties participating in these large-scale
initiatives. This article, which was inspired by recent research on BIM technology
in Pakistan, intends to track the state of affairs in 2019 and present a road map for
architects who are expected to take use of BIM's many advantages. (Masood et al.,
2014)
Digital technology implementation and architectural education are both closely
related. It is important to assess how many digital design courses are offered in
architecture education since they inform students about the variety of professional
prospects and career options. Computational thinking is required since architectural
design involves several complexities. (Abdullah and Kamara 2013; Botchway et al.
2015). Top architectural companies are using cutting-edge computer software to
implement ground-breaking design tactics, giving them endless ideas and a larger
range of possible design solutions. (Hardi K. Abdullah, Badiossadat Hassanpour,
2019).
Various computer applications should be incorporated into architectural education
using computational thinking methodologies, according to research, in order to help
students develop their original notions and transform them into a variety of design
alternatives. (Leahy et al. 2018) A study examined how well leading architectural
practises were integrating digital design into their architecture education
programmes at two Middle Eastern universities. The vast majority of architecture
educators and designers in developing nations are not well-versed in the advantages
of contemporary computer-based design applications, and this negatively affects
both the design and construction standards of the built environment in these nations
as well as the graduates of architecture programmes. (Hardi K. Abdullah,
Badiossadat Hassanpour, 2019).
The implementation of computational design tools is melodramatically restricted to
the levels of drawing, modelling, and visualisation, which is comparable to the
1980s, according to a research carried out in the architecture department of KNUST.
(Botchway et al. 2015). Researchers also concur that CAD instruction should blur
the lines between society, technology, and people. (Downey 1992, 1993; Petrina
2003). Recent developments in CAD technology have educational implications that
show modelling and simulation utilising a CAD platform monitors students towards
making wise design judgements. (Ibrahim and Okeil, 2011).
The need for architects has decreased as top architecture companies like Gehry
Partners, Zaha Hadid Architects, and Bjarke Ingels Groups recruit graduates who
are proficient in and acquainted with a variety of digital technologies. Two Middle
Eastern architectural departments (i.e., Eastern Mediterranean University,
Famagusta, North Cyprus, and Salahaddin University-Erbil, Kurdistan, Iraq) were
surveyed to determine the current state of integrated digital design tools in the
architecture school curriculum. Regarding the provided computer-aided design
courses and digital applications, the curriculum of both were changed.
According to the case studies' use of digital design software, EMU's architecture
department provides five computer-based courses as part of its degree programme,
three of which are required and two of which are electives. Additionally, they are
permitted to utilise it in their second and subsequent years of study. However, SU
only offers one course, and students may only enrol in it beginning in their third
year. Considering the theoretical framework of examining the top architectural
companies in professional practise, the results showed that the architecture
department at EMU is comparatively better at reacting to market demands than the
architecture department at SU. (Hardi K. Abdullah, Badiossadat Hassanpour, 2019).
Because architects share their expertise, learning is heavily reliant on precedents.
During design critiques, peer engagement is heavily encouraged by pedagogy. the
Research shows that peer involvement is actively built However, peer support needs
to be evaluated critically since it occasionally contains untruths or misinformation
because of ignorance or rivalry (Dutton, 1984).
The studio has quickly attracted the interest of scholars and educators, inspiring them
to investigate the possibilities of these technology-aided architectural design
(CAAD) tools and information distribution platforms. The current article has a
specific focus on immersive virtual environments (IVEs). Researchers have
emphasised the advantages of IVEs in supporting the design may share information
and experience a deeper learning process. IVEs give a shared visual display for all
participants, therefore promoting the architectural learning of architectural and urban
design (Alexander, 1979; Canter, 1977; Dourish, 2004).
The "location" notion has seen a resurgence as a context for research recently in the
design sector. (Aravot, 2002; Clark & Maher 2005; El Antably, 2011; Rieuf &
Bouchard, 2017) When looking at learning via the lens of place, it is suggested that
learning behaviours be seen as placed in the actual and virtual environments that
support learning, whereas a learning place would be the act of learning carried out
in a specific environment. Each KCA is made up of a situated pattern that is derived
from the social setting, which includes all crit participants (such as the tutor, peers,
and learners), and the design activities, which are the learning behaviours involved
in creating the design product, such as its social and spatial settings. The goal of
looking at how the environment impacts learning may be obscured by several
factors: Few design efforts may result in a high-quality project just as they may result
in a low-quality one. Focusing on the design process results in a design process that
is thought to consist of the tasks of analysis, synthesis, and evaluation (cross, well-
defined skills offer a chance to gauge learners' proficiency and generate instructional
design techniques (Christenson, 2016; Öztürk & Türkkan,).
The process of designing is extremely important in Pakistan. There are various
approaches used to create architectural designs, and designing entails examining
what factors could be acceptable. Goal factors and decision variables both play a
role in the exploration process. Additionally, learning is an aspect of creating; as a
design develops, learning about new features is a part of the exploratory process.
(Arciszewski, Michalski, and Wnek, 1995). In Pakistan it is extremely useful to
assess the quality of the projects before any actions are made to evaluate the project.
Designs, especially technologically based designs, generate social change both by
their existence and by the values they modify in a community.
In hindsight, this is usually simpler to understand. Designing is done with the
expectation that the finished product will work in the social and, usually speaking,
natural worlds. We also need a framework that enables us to comprehend where the
emphasis of such design processes may be in relation to other design processes.
Nowadays, computational models serve as the inspiration for the creation of support
tools. CAVEs are high-end immersive virtual reality visualisation and sensing tools
that may reintegrate the user into the design process. The gap between the virtual
and the physical is closed via prompt prototyping, which creates a physical model
of an object from its digital representation, and three-dimensional scanning of
physical objects. These innovations in design enable previously unimagined design
forms that combine the real and virtual worlds (Gero, 2000).
The use of digital technologies in design projects reveals a different period in the
history of architecture. As a result, architecture is now defined as function following
form rather than vice versa. The way of representation we employ to express
ourselves in the design, which is mostly roman and Arabic, is therefore the most
crucial aspect of digital. These tools accurately portray the design building's area.
The steps in the process of creating a model include concept generation and allowing
the building to be designed within the concept. We concentrated on objects that have
a pattern of design or structure while coming up with concepts. We concentrated on
objects that have a pattern of design or structure while coming up with concepts. At
the conclusion of the dialogue, we create the model that complies with the
aforementioned instruction. Long-running conceptual and generational debates
surround model development. The fundamental concept behind digital design is that
we can see a complicated structure and alter it to suit our needs. Examples of digital
modelling include the Mobius Ring and the Morphological Principle. (Bhavna
Shrivastava, 2013).
The concept of an architect and designer is undergoing various changes in the
academic environment along with the digital technology revolution. On the overall,
digital technology brings about numerous changes in communication, transforms
culture, and encourages cooperation and creativity among individuals. When it
comes to architectural changes at the educational level, numerous new teaching
techniques and tools are introduced that not only make an architect's job less easy
but also give them the chance to learn and explore the fundamentals of design in
order to create something improbable and unbelievable. A poll revealed that a lot of
professionals and students work using digital technology. (Shar and Memon, 2021).
The formation of a distinctive body of architectural conceptions is a result of the
growth of digital design. Researchers and educators from many fields have all begun
to address the desire to use virtual layout in architectural layout instruction. These
projects attempt to start a process of rethinking many of the design theory
presumptions that underpin architecture education. A new collection of design
principles relating to models of generation, animation, performance-based design,
and materialisation is replacing architectural theory. Digital technologies that
facilitate various forms of form production in relation to complicated and topological
geometries appear to have an impact on new ideas. (Mark et al., 2003; Kvan et al.)
Understanding the relationships between design ideas and terminology may be
facilitated by a framework that recognises virtual layout styles and the
accompanying virtual strategies. Each student is given a task in a bottom-up
approach called an experimental digital design workshop. A virtual study task,
concept set, and methodology that fit his interests and skills. Digital design methods
and models might offer an alternative direction for the design studio's pedagogy.
This can be accomplished by relieving students of expectations pertaining to the
traditional design studio methods. (Oxman et al., 2007).
Humanistic fields of research have been distressed as they were enforced to adopt
the methodology, the tools and ultimately, the philosophy of natural sciences. This
is because since the illumination, scientific research method in common has become
increasingly interconnected with the methods and norms of the so called natural
sciences. (Vesely, D. 2004).The roots, as well as the consequences of this inborn
dichotomy in contemporary architecture is a matter that assets grave discussion, and
can be traced to the gap that has appeared between architectural praxis and
architectural theory (Hays, M. 2000). Eventually, the question of digital (or IT)
architectures is not only a matter of “what we design and how we design it” as
demonstrated by various digital architecture theorists (Kolarevic B.2000, Lynn, G.,
1999, Mitchell, W. 1990, etc) but also a matter of WHY we design (Martin, R. 2005).
An educational system that does not provide its students the greatest degree of
independence is cruel, and one that cannot satisfactorily respond to the question
posed by its students, "Why are we studying this?" is still lacking. This may also be
connected to Pakistan's level of architectural education. It is important to take into
account what digital architecture education curricula colleges are using and when
digital architectural education begins. (Papamaolis and Liapi, 2000)
Architecture before digital and after digital is completely different. No one can claim
that architectural designs from the past and present are same. (AURAK Catalog
2021-2022). Even when we think of Pakistan, we can notice a change in the
architectural style of Pakistan. Where we still treasure our traditional architecture,
we adore the modern architecture as well. For example, the architecture of Islamabad
shows a contemporary and modern image, yet it is not disliked. In design thinking,
the digital tool can visualize the design thinking and generate the idea that contain
all concept of designer (AURAK Catalog 2021-2022).
Although the role of technology and digital tools in architecture is increasing day by
day but it should not overcome. Few very important steps of design process such as
sketching. Using digital forms at this early stage of the design process might have
negative effects (Clark, Manus, and Faia, 2011). Sketches should be the first step in
design process and something that is every important for any designer or architect.
Many designers directly jump into the final stage of project without any planning or
thought, but a number of professional architects still use sketching design process to
create new ideas and solution of project such as a famous architect Frank Gehry,
always starts his project from sketching the form of project. Sketching and
architecture go hand and hand. (Nakaya Davis, 2018). Both things should move side
by side on their required time but none should overlap the other’s space. An effective
tool for thinking, mental stimulation, mental impression, creation, critique,
discussion, and alternative preparation are architectural drawings. (Kendra Schank
Smith, 2008). Sketching is much more than a scribble on a piece of paper it is a
powerful step in discovering the best ideas and solutions of design problems
architectural sketches are always the best method for an architect to communicate
his ideas (Nakaya Davis, 2018). Sketches is the best method for an architect to
designer to describe his ideas to the client. It is also seen of as a method for
communicating thoughts to the papers in the shape of a look or a flash, after which
the concepts are structured and developed in the form of layers as a conversation
between anybody and himself (Bryan Lawson, 2005).
This reduction of architecture to transparent productive knowledge remains is a
major problem in today's IT-driven architectural designs. Information technologies'
digital media, which are also tools in the natural sciences, function using measurable
components. On the negative side, the context in which they must work
(architectural synthesis) is built in large part on ideas that cannot be easily or at all
reduced to measurable components required for digital manipulation. As a
generalisation, it makes sense to assume that the development of information
technology in the media has a tendency to prefer some aspects of architectural design
(those that are more suited to digitalization) over others, those that cannot be reduced
to measurable characteristics. It is also possible to argue that, despite all of their
processing capacity, digital technologies cannot, in their current application, provide
the needed explanation and meaning (Papamaolis and Liapi, 2000)
If we take the changes impacted by information technologies in the field of
architecture for granted, we must ask ourselves if the processes of architectural
training emerging in the wake of the digital uprising are "incomplete," or even "bad,"
and recognise the need for a thorough digital design culture that can result from
architectural education. Based on the aforementioned theoretical foundation, it is
very important to study real-world case studies in order to properly use IT in
architectural synthesis. Therefore, setting up experiments in a digital studio is a
second problem (Asanowicz, 1998, 2003, 2007), where the incorporation of digital
media in the educational process can be put under close inspection. The settings,
limits, and procedures of such experimental studios continue to be a subject that calls
for serious discussion (Akin, 2005).
According to its architectural legacy, the significance of global heritage forums and
its preservation issues have grown. In order to translate its restoration into a digital
format, UNESCO is attempting to create simpler trends. These locations are now
protected by international charters, which may be addressed by modern approaches
including developing new processes, technologies, tools, and disciplines. Mohenjo
Daro, Harappa, and Taxila are three well-known architectural sites in Pakistan that
have been the subject of archaeological discoveries. Numerous locations are the
result of Muslims, Sikhs, Hindus, and Britons assimilating their cultures. On
November 16, 1976, in Paris, UNESCO accepted a general conservation, adding the
site on its list because of its delectable sites. The goal is to find a low-cost,
environmentally friendly, and digital alternative for restoration techniques. The two
locations, Lahore Fort and Baltit Fort, might be useful in understanding the process
of digital conservation. Both the Shalimar Garden and the Lahore Fort combine
harsh and soft landscape elements. The walled city of Lahore is known as the Mughal
of Gardens, and with the assistance of the Norwegian government and Aghan trust
which provide its 2d and 3d data (Keller 2018)
Faster than prior free-form research, new innovative architectural design procedures
are appearing. It indicates that the propensity to associate morphological
characteristics like "complex" and "free curve" with digital technology has its roots
in the narrative approach to the history of architecture. We look at several historical
vantage points on the matter. Digital design is not a fad or a particular type of work.
The biggest change, in Mario Carpo's opinion, is the removal of the conventional
distinctions between architectural design and construction. While Daniel Llach looks
at how computer technology has affected architecture, Bill Addis analyses
architectural history with a focus on technological advancement. Both Upitis and
Rocha examine how computational design and related fields have affected the
process of architectural design. (Keller 2018).
The Cyark has taken the initiative to conserve the calligraphic and qashanic art on
the Mughal relic picture wall, Almigiri gate, Lahore fort, and Baltit fort by digital
scanning and laser printing. For its documentation, a table with some findings that
relate to various variables was created. The following concerns are taken into
account for the protection of Pakistan's world heritage sites: (1) lack of knowledge,
theft of site areas, and lack of funding; (2) harsh weather and climatically altered
sites; (3) tourism; and (4) a lack of training and skill. The insufficient use of digital
media in digital heritage, a lack of standardisation, and the slow documentation of
the final five UNESCO architectural sites in Pakistan (known as photogrammetry),
all of which call for professionals, are the most difficult issues that prevent the
preservation of sites (Mathews 2006)
3. Problem identification and Research objectives:
The rise of digital architecture globally has brought in a number of questions. Where
it is used to boost an architects performance, save time and allow more innovative
ideas to be visualized and created, it has also forces us to think whether to what
extent does it contribute to the architecture of Pakistan. Being a developing country
with strong traditional architectural styles, it is subject to many problems when it
comes to digital architecture. The aim of conducting this research is to find out where
digital architecture actually stands according to practicing architects and aspiring
students as well, its impact and challenges faced. Moreover, to discover whether this
would pose a threat to the existing traditional architecture.
4. Methodology
In this research, apart from gathering data from different text sources and visual
observation, a questionnaire was prepared and interviews were conducted. As a
result of these procedures, conclusions were drawn about the scope, opportunities,
challenges and implementation of digital architecture in Pakistan. Around two
hundred people from various different age groups, work experiences and
background answered questions related to digital architecture in Pakistan. This gave
a good insight about the status of digital architecture in Pakistan currently, as well
as it helped to visualize the expectations for the future. These methods are
individually discussed below and analyzed accordingly.
 Figure 1: Research methodology followed

4.1 Questionnaire
The questionnaire was uploaded online and about one hundred and sixty people
answered the questions. The responses which are described below are taken by 76
male under 18-24 aged and 4 male under 25-34 aged, while 76 was female under 18-
24 aged and 5 females under 25-34 aged. The answers were then passed through
SPSS for analysis. The questionnaire focused on six main parts that are:
 Knowledge about digital architecture
 The use of digital tools
 Implementation of digital architecture
  Issues with respect to other countries
 Opportunities for infield architects
 Challenges in construction field

Results and discussions:

a) Scope of digital architecture

Figure 2

Figure 4
Figure 3

From the above results, it can be concluded that 57% people agree that by
implementing digital technologies in Pakistan, the architect standard and his or her
salary is likely to be increased and the unemployment in architecture field may be
slowly decreased. Figure 3 also shows that 99 reviews about the scope of digital
architecture shows that a career as a digital architect may contribute to a person’s
fame. Unfortunately, people also agree that Pakistan does not have access to
education from architects who are excelling in the field of digital architecture.
 b) Implementation of digital architecture

Figure 5 Figure 6

Almost 71.0% architecture scholars claim the fault of Pakistan construction

technology. The implementation of digital architecture in Pakistan will be lacked by
its construction technology. Analysis recorded 71.6% agreement in facing problems
to shift from traditional to digital architecture because this need time to skill labour
and to make technology in Pakistan. Moreover, in another question, analysis showed
that 50.3% arguments are in the right of not consideration of digital architecture in
Pakistan by leading architecture firms. This means that architecture firms are not
doing projects in digital architecture to lead in Pakistan implementation.
c) Opportunities for infield architects

Figure 7 Figure 8

The above result shows that about 57% people agree that there are many educational
opportunities to study digital architecture in Pakistan, which refers to the steps taken
by majority of educational institutes order to create architects that can compete with
the developing world. Therefore, this may indicate that Pakistan has begun to shift
toward digital technologies. In Pakistan, opportunities for students are improving.
On the other hand, 71% people come to an agreement that Pakistan’s educational
environment does not coincide with digital architecture world. Thus, it can be
concluded that educational institutes should not only introduce the use of digital
architecture but also keep in mind the challenges that come along with it and upgrade
their courses so that those problems can be resolved with education.
d) Challenges in construction field

Figure 9

65% of respondents concur that digital architecture encourages building types that
provide difficulties for both structural and civil engineers. Furthermore, 67% of
respondents concur that digital forms should follow the present architectural trends,
where structures are complementary to one another. These findings indicate that
Pakistan is now facing some significant difficulties.
Net results:

Almost 45% of the potential for digital architecture and its implementation in
Pakistan are found to be lacking, according to reviews by scholars in the field of
architecture. This is because of problems with skilled labour, illiteracy in academic
institutions, a lack of construction technologies, and a lack of knowledgeable
professionals. However, 25% of assessments indicate that Pakistan will seize
chances and manage its issues in the future to create a developed future.
Additionally, 30% of the assessments were negative, attempting to argue that
Pakistan is developing its digital architectural skills. As a result, it is believed by the
general public that Pakistan needs more time to adopt and expand its use of digital
architecture. For this, more public knowledge of its implementation is necessary,
along with government action.

4.2 Results from the Interviews

This analysis is considered as qualitative analysis in which interviews are taken from
graduated architects. The main objectives are enlightened in the questionnaire,
which is constituted by Nvivo in the form of nodes. Four people were interviewed
and their results are discussed below. They were questioned about the current status
of digital architecture in Pakistan and hopes for the future, the role of BIM and
financing issues.

Figure 11

Figure 12 (a) Figure 12 (b)

 Figure 12 (c ) Figure 12 (d)

The outcome of this analysis show that there is very less variation regarding the
opinion of any architect. So all the graph lies in the same plane. All architects want
support the implementation of digital architecture and take many initial steps at their
platform for the implementation. Furthermore, they also have future plans to
overcome all hurdles in the path of digital era.

Conclusions from the interviews

The conversations mentioned above lead us to the conclusion that professional
platforms strongly favour digital architecture. In Pakistan, there are many architects
that see the value of this design and who are actively working to adopt the digital
age. Many businesses chose to employ software, such as BIM, to turn idealised
structures into reality at the beginning. The construction, labour, and financial
aspects of modern design, however, provide the most difficulties. These structures
are far more complicated than typical ones, necessitating the services of a highly
qualified construction engineer and highly skilled workers whose building ideas go
beyond conventional ones. Another point is that construction engineers respect and
recognise the architect's ideas about the development of architectural forms. On the
other hand, cost is a significant concern.

On the other hand, cost is a significant concern. No such projects are carried out, as
in Pakistan. Therefore, a large initial outlay is required (as for the application of new
procedures), which Pakistan cannot afford. Foreign aid is most likely the source of
it. As a result of the above debate, it is clear that Pakistan, with its population's
capacity for digital growth, will reach the point where it can meet all opportunities
and overcome all problems associated to digital architecture in future. However,
currently it may take more than a couple of years to gain all the success in digital
architecture.

5. Conclusion
It can clearly be concluded that there are numerous challenges that Pakistan is
currently facing when it comes to the implementation of digital architecture. Almost
all educational institutes give priority to digital architectural education, and this
creates architects who aiming to create something unqiue and new. Despite the
widespread use of information technologies in all facets of the architectural
profession, their adoption in architectural education, both in theory and in practise,
has remained disorganised, fragmented, and devoid of a comprehensive conceptual
framework. Aspiring architects do realize the importance of the digital tools and
also support it use in architectural education. However, regardless of whether people
approve the use of digital tools in architecture or not, this is a part of Pakistan’s
future just like it is for other countries as well. New technologies and novel
advancements methods in digital architecture will eventually pave its way to
Pakistan as well, but for the time being, digital architecture will keep facing certain
social, economic and financial disputes.
The end effect is that Pakistan's digital architecture lags behind that of other nations.
Pakistan needs many years to get to the stage where all the countries are represented
at the moment. The main cause is that individuals lack understanding, education, and
communication skills with regard to labourers and masons, which leaves all on-the-
ground construction in the dust. The use of a small sample size is one of the key
limitations of this study, making the conclusions formed from it feeble.
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