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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Directional Strength: Glulam Components in Force-Responsive Design

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

LivIn

STATE OF THE ART ANALYSIS Using this set of aims, we evaluated various state of the art references, and extracted relevant information.

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

ChromaEnergon

ChromaEnergon represents an innovative approach to student housing architecture that transcends conventional design paradigms tapping the potentials of climatic energy and thermochromic pigments. This concept leverages verticality, slenderness, and dispersed tower structures to create dynamic living environments. By strategically mapping energy into various spaces through the skin which the facade, ChromaEnergon aims to generate unique … Read more

WOOD ID mockups

Site The city of Porto Alegre in Brazil has faced recently the largest flood in the recorded history. The 2nd place happened 80 years ago across the span of 22 days. This year, this record was broken in 4 hours. As for now, only for the city of Porto Alegre, more than 242 thousand homes … 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

Woodcraft | Column-Beam Connection

CONTEXT STRUCTURE This project focuses on the Column-Beam Connection within the larger post-and-beam frame structure. While seemingly simple, these connections require intricate detailing to seamlessly resolve multi-element node connections. Our design involved integrating two perpendicular columns into a monolithic L-shaped column, securing two additional beams in the process. Through digital modelling, we adopted a multilayered … Read more

Segmented Blank

Developing visions of a future forest architecture, in Valvidrera Reservoir; a landscape that provides accesibility to, flora, fauna and open space to surrounding communities. LEARNING OBJECTIVES To gain an understanding of digital modelling of complex timber structures. To demonstrate an understanding of design-to-fabrication workflows and principles. To demonstrate an understand of digital fabrication methodologies for … Read more

SALVAGED WOOD

WHY USE RECLAIMED WOOD RESEARCH Reclaimed wood is a sustainable and unique material that can be used in almost any project. It offers strength, character, and originality that you cannot find with any other building material. It helps preserve the past while upcycling materials that would otherwise go to waste. TYPE – WOOD-PALLETS Mapping the … Read more