computer programmers are architects?!

Architects or computer programmers? ...computer programmers are architects? 

In this Ted talk, Michael Hansmeyer elaborates on his exploration of architecture forming algorithms. Rather than the more and more whimsical and at times convoluted forms derived from the minds of today's architects, he envisions a shift on the horizon where architectural form is the result of complex algorithms. hmmm... fractals we can live in. 

At first, I found myself wondering what kinds changes are necessary in our architectural education to accommodate this brand new world. Very quickly, though, thoughts were closer to, 'Does this really have a place outside of the theoretical?' 

For Hansmeyer's real world implementation of these processes, a series of columns were designed and produced to scale. While the intricacies of the volumes are seductive, with a future, by reasonable consensus, to be shaped by sustainability and conservation. one wonders how the expense of both time and resources can be reconciled. Even if more efficient methods of production are derived that translate to the building scale, the embellishments and detailing seem an unnecessary expenditure. 

I suppose my base design instinct is showing - form follows function.