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.
Of all the topics explored in our Ecological Intelligence seminar—ranging from urban greening to multispecies design—vernacular architecture stood out as the most quietly radical. Its intelligence is not flashy or algorithmic. It doesn’t require parametric software, biofabrication labs, or climate dashboards. Instead, it draws from generations of lived experience, calibrated to the rhythms of place, … Read more
USING CORK AS A DELINEATOR OF INTERNAL CLIMATIC PROGRAMS a. initial machine phenomena studies b. first iteration of phenomena recreated c. second iteration of phenomena model on column site d. photographs of second iteration
Reclaiming Residual Spaces for Mobility Justice Mobility is more than movement—it is access, opportunity, and the right to navigate a city freely. In Maré, one of Rio de Janeiro’s largest informal settlements, mobility is shaped by spatial fragmentation, unequal infrastructure investments, and a reliance on informal transport systems. This project explores how underutilized urban spaces—abandoned … Read more
Redesigning the Municipality of Mesquita for Productive Justice: A Sustainable Urban Transformation Productive Justice “Productive justice for self-sufficiency” refers to the frameworks and practices aimed at enhancing individual and community self-reliance while promoting social justice. Productive Justice Through Architecture and Urban Planning State Of The Art Collectives/Case Studies Rio De Janeiro _Productivity Focused Research on … Read more
What is Infrastructure Justice? Rio’s Context State of the Art Rio Maps Sao Goncalo Proposal Thank you!
A space for human driven by human On a planetary scale, these dynamics of solar heating, infrared cooling, and moisture transport create global patterns in climate. This study explores how temperature and humidity generated through human exertion at different activity levels can be passively regulated to create adaptive microclimates tailored to occupant circadian rhythms and … Read more
SecondMatter challenges architecture’s extractive processes and wasteful material cycles by upcycling Construction Demolition Renovation Waste (CDRW) into structural and non-structural applications. It blends ramming, which compacts granular materials into high-strength forms, with jamming-inspired interlocking of irregular aggregates. Large concrete waste pieces form a reinforced core, wrapped in a rammed mix of fine brick and concrete … Read more
This project explores ecological justice through the lens of waste inequality in Rio de Janeiro. Focusing on the Gamboa neighborhood and the repurposing of the historic Moinho Fluminense silos, we propose a decentralized recycling system connected to local waste streams. By integrating informal and formal actors—such as catadores and recycling industries—we aim to reduce landfill … Read more
This Project explores how reflective, vernacular materials—such as ceramics—can be utilized in construction to manage infrared radiation and influence microclimates. By reflecting rather than absorbing heat, these materials contribute to passive cooling, reducing urban heat island effects and enhancing thermal comfort. We analyze the physical properties of ceramics, their historical applications in traditional architecture, and … Read more
The objective of BARA is to connect to the current wide usage of concrete in the industry and present an alternative concrete for decarbonization, providing a catalog of structural architectural elements. By incorporating biochar and silica fume into the concrete mixture, potential typologies unfold according to the employment, structural or non structural adding acoustic, insulative … Read more
RICE PRODUCTION AROUND THE WORLD METABOLIC DIAGRAM OF RICE HUSK IMPLICATIONS IN SEVERAL INDUSTRIES STATISTICS OF RICE HUSK PRODUCTION PROPOSAL RICECRETE As Rice Husk has good thermal insulation , is lightweight and due to the high silica content is water resistance . Rice Crete is a natural building material made from rice husks, lime, and … Read more
KINXA aims to bring vernacular construction back into contemporary architecture by systemizing traditional “quincha”. At the same time, through a redesigned material system, KINXA seeks to take advantage of local resources and lower even more its precedent carbon footprint. Quincha is a technique prevalent in Latin America which consists of the use of a wood … Read more
Kangaroo Inflation / Reciprocal Framework Referential Work / Component and Parameters Form Finding Render / Immersion Animation / Process
Project by Saad Khan and Gustavo Calderone The final task for the term was to design a 100-square-meter pavilion in Plaça de Sant Pere, Barcelona, using computational design logic through Grasshopper. This project explores generative design strategies to create an adaptable pavilion using parametric methodologies, ensuring a responsive and dynamic architectural intervention within the urban … Read more
