Within the current global context of rapid change, integrated with the potentials of digital technologies, IAAC’s Master in Advanced Architecture (MAA) is committed to the generation of new ideas and applications for Urban Design, Self Sufficiency, Digital Manufacturing Techniques and Advanced Interaction.
In this context IAAC works with a multidisciplinary approach, facing the challenges posed by our environment and the future development of cities, architecture and buildings, through a virtuous combination of technology, biology, computational design, digital and robotic fabrication, pushing innovation beyond the boundaries of a more traditional architectural approach.
“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
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
COLUMN LOGIC CEILING DESIGN DEVELOPMENT FLOOR DESIGN LOGIC FABRICATION PROCESS
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
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
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
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
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
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
– Reimagining the Northern Green Corridor of Lisbon – Location The project site in Lisbon is strategically located within a dynamic urban fabric characterized by a mix of historic layers and contemporary development. Positioned between key mobility corridors and densely populated neighborhoods, the area experiences a high level of pedestrian and vehicular activity throughout the … Read more
Rebuilding reality from fragments of memory and lived experience 01 Introduction Incorporating memory into 3D reconstruction makes it possible to move beyond purely geometric recovery and towards environments that retain traces of how spaces were actually lived, remembered, and transformed over time. By combining conventional datasets with oral histories, subjective narratives, and experiential accounts, memory-augmented models can … Read more
This project explores cork as a sustainable material and investigates new possibilities for its application through innovative design and production methods. By experimenting with different technologies and rethinking how they can be used, the aim is to develop new ways of working with cork that minimize carbon emissions, reduce waste, and limit the use of … Read more
how can design unlock the architectural potential of materials that are currently underused or overlooked? Argo Waste materials offer more than environmental benefits. Material – Banana Biomass Total Annual Biomass – 675 Million Tonnes Carbon Emission Through waste “Every 1% of the 525MT of banana biomass we move from “waste” to “construction” prevents roughly4–9 million … Read more
“Carbon-breathing panels: a regenerative material system for climate-adaptive architecture.”
