Integration of computational design and virtual prototyping in optimizing and verifying clay 3D-printed Islamic pattern brick walls for indoor applications

Purpose This study aims to investigate and validate the integration of computational design methodologies with ceramics three-dimensional (3D) printing for the development of structurally and esthetically optimized brick units inspired by Islamic geometrical and vegetational patterns. By using a flexible, parameter-controlled computational framework, this research generates and assesses a series of Islamic-patterned clay bricks designed to enhance structural integrity, visual connectivity and acoustic performance in indoor architectural applications. This study further explores how these digitally fabricated bricks can support a user-centric design approach, leveraging performance-based analysis to align traditional cultural motifs with contemporary spatial and environmental requirements. Design/methodology/approach This research begins with a comprehensive literature review to examine the evolution and capabilities of advanced additive manufacturing techniques – particularly ceramic 3D printing (3DP) – as well as the geometric principles and symbolic value of Islamic patterns and ornamental motifs. Based on the insights gathered, a parametric, performance-driven design framework was developed, enabling iterative control over geometry, material use and fabrication feasibility. Key variables such as print resolution, material rheology and pattern topology were encoded as adjustable parameters within a computational design environment. Thus, this allowed for the generation of Islamic-patterned brick units optimized for specific performance criteria. The resulting designs were systematically evaluated using a series of simulations and analytical assessments that focused on three main performance domains: structural stability under compressive load, visual permeability within architectural contexts and acoustic responsiveness. Furthermore, the framework’s flexibility supported multiple design iterations, enabling refinement based on virtual prototyping and performance feedback loops. Findings The findings of this study reveal strong evidence supporting the integration of ceramic 3DP with Islamic geometric design through a computational performance-based framework. Structurally, the patterned brick units outperformed conventional hollow equivalents in displacement resistance while achieving improved material efficiency, with optimized use ratios across multiple variations. The parametric evaluation further confirmed that form and performance can be jointly optimized without compromising geometric complexity. Simulation of the bricks within an indoor wall partition context demonstrated that specific Islamic motifs – namely, the interlaced pattern, the eight-pointed star and the arabesque – exhibited distinct profiles in visual transparency and acoustic permeability. Each pattern enabled a tailored balance between openness and sound transmittance, highlighting the potential of geometrically encoded designs to serve as multifunctional architectural components. Originality/value This research presents a novel synthesis of traditional Islamic architectural design with contemporary ceramic 3DP technologies, offering a culturally embedded yet technically advanced solution for responsive building components. Its core value lies in the development of a flexible, parametric design framework that enables dynamic control over form, performance and material use. Unlike conventional approaches, the framework allows for real-time adaptation of geometries in response to structural, visual and acoustic requirements, making it highly applicable to diverse architectural contexts. This study not only preserves the symbolic integrity of Islamic motifs but also reinterprets them as performative elements within a computational design-to-fabrication pipeline.