Introduction
Sustainability is no longer optional in architecture, yet translating ecological principles into measurable, data-driven design remains a challenge. NEXT’s use of computational tools demonstrates how these workflows can enhance energy efficiency, resource optimization, and ecological integration, but widespread adoption requires overcoming barriers. This research will explore how NEXT Architects applies digital tools to improve sustainability, analyzing key projects, challenges, and future opportunities.
Guests
Alberto Carro Novo – Computational Designer at NEXT (MVRDV)
Alberto Carro Novo is an Architect and a member of the Computational Design team at MVRDV NEXT. He previously contributed to the Computational Design team at KCAP in Rotterdam.
He earned a Master’s in Architecture from the Technical School of Madrid in 2022 and is a licensed architect in Spain. Additionally, he completed a Master’s in Advanced Computation for Architecture & Design (MaCAD 23-24) at the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC).
Boudewijn Thomas – Sustainable Architecture and Urban | Digital Design Specialist at NEXT team (MVRDV)
Boudewijn is a computational design specialist, Associate, and Operational Manager at MVRDV NEXT. He currently leads the climate team, focusing on creating measurable, immediate impacts that support MVRDV’s climate goals across its projects.
One of Boudewijn’s standout contributions includes his work on the Valley project in Amsterdam, where he led the automated design of over 40,000 tiles across a 10,000 m² complex façade, achieving remarkable speed, precision, and efficiency.
His career spans international experience at architecture firms in China and New Zealand. Known for his deep expertise, personal approach, and optimism, Boudewijn inspires and empowers others to take meaningful steps toward positive change.
Questions
Min_1:10 – Let’s start with your journey. How did you both begin working with MVRDV NEXT, and what exactly is NEXT’s role within MVRDV?
Min_5.05 – Projects like CarbonScape tackle the carbon footprint throughout a project’s life cycle. How do you balance creative design freedom with sustainability constraints in such projects?
Min_8.00 – Digital tools are powerful but come with adoption barriers. From your experience, what are the biggest technical and practical challenges when integrating sustainability-driven computational tools?
Min_9.50 – Urban spaces require more than just carbon efficiency—they must be livable, biodiverse, and resilient. What strategies does NEXT use to integrate biodiversity and climate resilience into its urban projects?
Min_13:06 – Let’s talk about your work. Of all the recent projects you’ve been involved in, which one is your favorite, and why?
Min_15:10 – Buckminster Fuller once described Earth as a ‘spaceship’ where every resource must be carefully managed. If we are the crew, or in this case MVRDV, how do we ensure we’re steering it in the right direction?
Min_17:48 – Finally, looking ahead—what is next for NEXT? What exciting developments or future directions are you exploring?
Conclusion
This project would not have been possible without the invaluable collaboration of Alberto and Boudewijn. Thanks to their treatment and good disposition, we have been able to address such a complex topic as the one discussed in a recording with a relaxed and friendly tone.
Apart from the specific topics discussed in the conversation, we can identify a fundamental pillar that connects and supports many of them. This pillar is the crucial role played by certain enabling factors in the successful adoption of new technologies. Among these, education and dissemination stand out as essential elements. Without proper education, individuals and organizations lack the tools to understand, evaluate, and implement innovations effectively. Likewise, dissemination ensures that information about emerging technologies reaches broader audiences, fostering awareness and engagement. In fact, the very existence of this podcast relies on these two components—educating listeners while disseminating valuable insights—highlighting just how foundational they are to the broader technological ecosystem.
Relevant Links
NEXT: https://www.mvrdv.com/themes/15/next
Valley: https://www.mvrdv.com/projects/1125/scripting-valley
Carbonscape: https://www.mvrdv.com/themes/6/sustainability
Tiffany: https://www.mvrdv.com/projects/879/tiffany-facade-singapore-changi
Solarscape: https://www.mvrdv.com/projects/1182/solarscape
Wozoco: https://www.mvrdv.com/projects/170/wozoco
Noviotech Campus: https://www.mvrdv.com/projects/842/noviotech-campus
