The MAA is a visionary master program with an innovative and open structure, mixing diverse disciplines, shaping professionals capable of producing theoretical & practical solutions towards responsive cities, architecture & technology.


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Morphological Adaptation

“How can a real-time parametric system effectively optimize architectural truss geometry when constrained by a limited, randomized inventory of salvaged timber? “ Geometry vs. Inventory Standard architectural forms assume infinite material. When constrained by random, reclaimed timber offcuts, the geometry itself must adapt to survive. “Shifting the structural burden from material continuity to joint frequency.”  Standard … Read more

PORTAL FRAME

Introduction — Intent Building a portal frame from reclaimed timber, focusing on splicing and shuffling techniques to adapt irregular pieces into a stable, structurally working system. Material Intelligence — Understanding the Stock Structural Logic — Portal Frame System Methodology — Overlay & Splice Strategy FABRICATION — Digital vs Physical The workflow was driven by existing … Read more

RECLAIMED PORTAL FRAMES

Structural Analysis: Where You Splice Is Everything This section covers the structural analysis work underpinning our reclaimed portal frame project – from knee joint behavior to the critical question of splice placement. The Portal Frame and Form Variations Different forms of portal frames react differently under mass and load- First we compared the mass of … Read more

After Gaudi – Facade ll

Site and Key Viewpoint Site and Key Viewpoint Core Project Keywords References FORM FINDING Final Form – Sketch Form Logic Variations and Catalog – Side Profile Form Finding Catalog Base Variation Catalog Convex concave Variation Catalogue Final Form – Levels OPENING & PLANTERS Opening’s Logic – Diamond Shape Opening’s Logics Catalog of Opening Opening Logic … Read more

Opening in Stacking

Introduction This project investigates how the introduction of openings in existing structures affects structural performance and reuse potential. By analyzing the impact of opening size and position on force distribution (such as shear force and bending moment), the study evaluates changes in stability and structural behavior. Based on these findings, the project establishes a relationship … Read more

After Gaudí Seminar II: Interpretation Center

Our project explores the After Gaudí vision through the lens of an Interpretation Center—not by simply copying forms, but by deeply understanding his geometry and structural logic. Project Framing: A 2026 Centenary Monument in the Born District. The monument site is strategically located in the Born District, deeply connected to the urban fabric between the … Read more

suro+

suro+ explores large-scale additive manufacturing with biomaterials by upcycling post-consumer cork stoppers into modular acoustic panels for temporary spatial applications. from post-consumer cork stoppers collected from restaurants in Barcelona, transforming a locally available waste. the stoppers are transformed and mixed with bio-based binders to form a printable composite used to fabricate modular acoustic panels through … Read more

Kontravoid 0.1

Kontravoid is a virtual reality authentication environment developed as part of a thesis on data-driven architectural interfaces. The project uses real-time EEG, ECG, and EMG data to verify identity through continuous physiological patterns rather than static inputs. Within an immersive VR space, biometric signals dynamically influence spatial elements such as light, geometry, and sound, creating … Read more

Policy to Algorithm

On one side, architects design in parametric software like Rhino, Grasshopper, Revit, BIM tools. On the other side, building regulations sit in static PDF documents. And between them, There's no live connection. One is dynamic, the other is static text. Who actually needs this? Architects. Specifically during the concept and design phase when you're iterating ... Read more

Robotics for Ecological Buildings

Studio: Term 2 – MRAC + MAA For our third term MRAC paired up with MAA students to investigate how vernacular materials and techniques of Catalonia could be modernised with robotic precision to create new typologies. Our group chose to work with Canya; more specifically Arundo Donax, Giant Reed. Two vernacular techniques we looked to … Read more

Robotics for Ecological Buildings

The Living Fibers MAA/MRAC, Studio Term 2, 2025/2026 Group 1: Brooklyn Edsall, Elias El  asmar, Leonard elias Böker, Nikolaos  Kalaitzidis, Nisanth Anil Menon Abstract:This project challenges the hyper-standardization of modern construction by investigating the architectural potential of raw, locally sourced Catalan wool. Our research elevates wool from a passive insulation material into an active, rigid, … Read more