During the second year of the Master in Advanced Architecture + Thesis Project (MAA02), students have the unique opportunity to work for a period of 1 year on an Individual Thesis Project, focused on the development of a research or pilot project based on the student’s interest, and the learnings of the first year. IAAC supports the student in selecting their Thesis Project topic in order to better orient them according to their future career interests and opportunities. Each student, according to their specific topic, is assigned one or more Thesis Advisors that follow the development of the work throughout the year.
In parallel to the development of the Individual Thesis Project, the second year of the MAA02 offers a series of seminars enhancing the theoretical, practical and computational skills of the students.
Contexept is a design-to-fabrication workflow that uses AI to generate context-aware façade designs and turn them into 3D-printable architectural modules. By combining semantic keyword clustering, image generation, and robotic clay printing, the system transforms abstract ideas into buildable, site-sensitive forms. It bridges digital creativity with physical construction, making AI a meaningful collaborator in architecture. Architecture … Read more
A Methodological Approach to Urban Morphology and Hybrid Energy Systems in the Global South Project Statement: “Even as we advance in Energy Innovation, our cities continueto grapple with deep inequalities. In this research, I proposerethinking Urban Morphology—not merely as the physicalform of our settlements, but as a strategic lever for equitableenergy solutions. The conceptual Energy-Morphology … Read more
An Exploration of Root Architecture and Material Study | TERM-2 EFFECTS OF EROSION CAUSES OF EROSION CURRENT SOLUTIONS AND PROBLEMS: THESIS OBJECCTIVE (WHAT IS NEEDED) POTENTIAL SITES STATE OF THE ART 3 MAIN TYPOLOGIES BIOLOGICAL ( ROOT AND SOIL STUDY), STRUCTURAL (SOIL COMPOSITION AND PRINTABILITY), DESIGN (SITE AND SPECIE SPECIFIC DESIGN EXPLORATION) BIOLOGICAL TYPOLOTY – … Read more
Analog End Effector Explorations Mechanical End Effector Explorations Final Robotic Jig Design | Facade Iterations
Abstract Parametric design tools like Grasshopper empower architects to create adaptive and efficient spatial layouts, but their complexity presents a barrier for non-experts. This research proposes a community-driven design tool that leverages Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) and Large Language Models (LLMs) to learn from expert-authored Grasshopper scripts, enabling prompt-based parametric layout design. By encoding design … Read more
This thesis explores the use of generative AI to transform 2D image prompts into fabricatable 3D pavilion designs using timber sheet-based CNC milling. By developing a workflow from AI-driven image generation to mesh segmentation and fabrication detailing, the research aims to bridge the gap between conceptual design and physical realization. The outcome is a phygital … Read more
Research Question Context Why Natural Fibers? Possible Impact Typologies State of Art Material Research Methodology Design Workflow
Optimising Modular Skyscrapper design through environmental and spatial intelligence
Climate change has become one of the primary drivers of forced displacement around the world, giving rise to the phenomenon known as climate migration. Here are some examples of statistics in the last year, forcing people to move to other cities and countries. Some of the most relevant examples of this displacement, have been occurred … Read more
This research explores the optimization of glulam in architectural design by aligning material grading and grain orientation with force trajectories. Combining glulam offcuts and higher-grade timber, the study minimizes waste while maximizing structural efficiency. Computational workflows and generative algorithms are used to design force-aligned components for scalable applications. Prototypes demonstrate enhanced performance and sustainability, offering … Read more
Computational Fluid Dynamics for Naturally Ventilated Systems Research Question In my research I believe that by looking and understanding ancient vernacular passive systems and working with computer aided design and cfd wind analysis, we will be able to create a system that can manipulate airflow to cool a space. This data can then inform modernized … Read more
STATE OF ART Part to Whole HG-A, South Korea – 2014 Building Traditions with Digital Research Rui Oliveira, Jose Pedro Sousa – 2016 Columns are analyzed as primary element of Ferreira’s designs. Columns, traditionally crafted through meticulous layering of bricks, are viewed both as structural and visual elements in his designs. RESEARCH QUESTION; “In what … Read more
