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.
KINXA | The future built with tradition
Vernacular architecture has steadily lost relevance in contemporary practice. Industrialized construction methods, aesthetic shifts, and the pursuit of perceived reliability in materials like concrete and steel have overshadowed traditional techniques. However, these modern materials often come at a high environmental cost. Among the overlooked methods is quincha, a construction technique common in Latin America. It … Read more
Evo-Core
GENETIC OPTIMIZATION OF THE STRUCTURAL WARDROBE ELEMENTS Project Abstract The structural wardrobe is reimagined as the primary vertical load-bearing core in a compact architectural system ( From the Data Informed Structures 2024-2025). Acting as both a partition and a support, this wardrobe spans between floor and ceiling, bearing compressive and tensile loads while housing essential … Read more
KINXA | Frame Optimization with Karamba
Our goal for this Computational Design assignment was using Karamba along with Wallacei to optimize the mass and deformation of the timber frames of our construction system called KINXA. It is a modernized version of the vernacular technique used in Latin America called “Quincha” which consists of the use of a wood or cane frame, … Read more
TREE WISE
TIMBER SENSING TECHNOLOGY A material system combining timber and graphene, replacing traditional sensors through graphene’s sensing capabilities. This innovative approach allows first, real-time tracking of deformations inside the wood. Second, creating a digital twin that improves maintenance efficiency in the operational phase. Third, providing a detailed service life passport, this system supports reuse and reduces … Read more
Karambug
Design optimization strategy of a garage in London based on Karamba and Ladybug Sensitivity Analysis Total (average) fitness iterations Catalogues load distribution in ceiling in different iterations
Optimization Tree Branching Fractals within Structure
Fractals are commonly found within nature. They are self-similar structures, where one aspect of the fractile is identical to the rest. This allows it to be scaled up or down while fitting within itself. Within trees, fractalization is found in the way the branches are grown from each other, always yielding smaller and smaller versions … Read more
OptiPlay
This term’s Computational Design Seminar focused on leveraging optimization tools to explore and refine architectural designs. Our project aimed to generate a diverse catalogue of design iterations, systematically optimizing each iteration to meet specific performance criteria. Utilizing plugins such as Wallacei for optimization and Karamba3D for structural analysis, we developed a Play Area located in … Read more
“Classic” / Pinned Glulam Blank (WOODCRAFT)
This square building was designed by Elies Regent in neo-Gothic style. From thi lodge the reservoir keeper controlled water levels and managed the opening and closing of the dam gates. This building has been restored as ,faithfully as possible to the original. At present the ground floor hosts an exhibition of the reservoir’s history and … Read more
Very Many
Design References Design Simulations Cladding Composition The Sandwich Panel is a combination of a top 6mm Polycarbonate Sheet with Dry Insulation and Cork forming our inner layers and to finish it off with a 6mm thk Polycarbonate Sheet at the bottom. Fabrication Process Using plywood as a base for dowels, which would serve as lateral … Read more
DESIRE – DESIgn for REassembly
Abstract The project’s purpose is to design two different proposals where bricks and timber if cross-section 45mmx90mm are used as materials for both constructions. A study of fabrication process, creating connections and ways of assembly-disassembly structures. Proposal A CONCEPTBrick and Timber Concept Design – V3 Digital Exploration Design objective: Use the same amount of material … Read more
