Design as Dialogue: Form Jamming with AI Agents - Matthew Goldsberry & Junling Zhuang - HDR

OrganizationHDR IncPresenters:Matthew Goldsberry & Junling ZhuangRecorded at CDFAM Computational Design Symposium, NYC, October 29-30, 2025https://cdfam.com/nyc-2025/Presentation AbstractWhile AI is often used for visualization in architecture, its potential to directly generate and shape geometry within the design process is still emerging. This presentation explores how we have been integrating model-aware AI agents into our design process.We begin with Synthesizer, a custom browser-based modeling tool paired with an Arduino-powered physical controller. Through a simple physical controller, designers trigger higher-order parametric actions, making the act of modeling feel more performative than procedural. Our early beta experiments, focused on building minimal, controller-driven interfaces, explore new possibilities beyond the traditional mouse and keyboard.We then introduce Form Jamming, a method developed within our RhinoMCP workflow. It treats the initial burst of AI-generated geometry as provisional material—something to be shaped and refined into architecture through intentional, iterative moves. While still experimental, this approach has shown promising results in several recent projects, a few of which we will share.This work outlines a new model of computational authorship in which designers and AI agents collaborate through structured dialogue. It points toward a future where generative design is not only more contextual and adaptive but also legible, editable, and deeply integrated into the design process through natural language interaction.Speaker BioMatthew GoldsberryMatt oversees the applied research and implementation of advanced computational design workflows. He is the director of Data-Driven Design and is responsible for developing new computational tools and workflows to facilitate design exploration, automated analysis, and advanced data management. Matt is also a Lecturer at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he teaches courses on advanced geometry and building information modeling. Matt holds a Master of Architecture degree from the University of California Los Angeles and a Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.Junling ZhuangJunling is a design technologist bridging research and practice in the AEC industry. As a software engineer at HDR’s Data-Driven Design team, he develops AI-powered 3D tools. Junling holds an M.S. in Computational Design from Columbia and is pursuing an M.S. in Computer Science at Georgia Tech. His work has appeared in ACADIA and CAADRIA, and he reviews for top venues including ACADIA, CAADRIA, TAD, and FoA This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.designforam.com