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.
Robotic Disassembly & Reassembly with Spatial AI Abstract The project explores a circular construction workflow that integrates robotic systems with Spatial AI to automate the disassembly and reassembly of brick structures. Utilizing a Gemini Vision-Language Model (VLM) pipeline, the system performs autonomous material evaluation, identifying surface damages such as chipping, spalling, and staining, as well … Read more
Concept Inspiration Creating a tensile pavilion structure based on Felix Candela‘s arch and aisle geometric logistics and diagrams. Iterative design approach based on ‘anchor points’ on a frame. Exploring scalable methodology for Kangaroo based computational design processes. ‘Iglesia de la Medalla Milagrosa‘ Felix Candela – photo by Lola Alvarez Bravo, 1954 Felix Candela Drawings and … Read more
Designed for the IAAC rooftop, this pavilion merges computational design with advanced robotic fabrication. The geometry originates in Grasshopper, where a basic mesh is transformed into an optimized vault using Kangaroo’s physics-based dynamic relaxation. A reciprocal frame pattern is then applied, translating the continuous shell into short, mutually supporting timber pieces. Because every interlocking element … Read more
The project situates the pavilion within the urban fabric of Plaça Reial, accompanied by initial conceptual sketches that explore a shell-like structure emerging from the geometry and atmosphere of the square. SITE INSPIRATION WORKFLOW PSEUDO CODE RENDERS
This project explores the computational assembly of components to form a multi-functional complex. By translating configurations into graphs, we applied Space Syntax logic to evaluate three key values : Depth, Integration, and Choice. The optimal architecture was selected based on the balanced symmetry of these indices. Finally, these analytical values directly guided the spatial programming, … Read more
Introduction to Digital Fabrication In contemporary architectural practice, digital fabrication has opened new possibilities for designing and producing building components with precision, efficiency, and expressive complexity. Among the most widely used methods—laser cutting, CNC milling, 3D printing, and robotic fabrication, each offers unique material, geometric, and performative potentials. For this assignment, we explore these techniques … Read more
Hasan Hirji The Light Reactive Aperture Device – LRAD facade system uses light to control two motorized arms, extending and contracting a taut wire frame. This prototype could offer a number of scalable and modular uses. One of these for instance could be creating a light reactive, repeating facade system that expands light shades when … Read more
SITE CONTEXT Ballina Methodist Church in Ballina in County Mayo. It was built in 1857 originally as a school. The old Methodist Church in Ballina was built in 1839. In 1983 the Methodist Church in Ballina relocated to this building. INSPIRATION Irish rock wall stacking is a centuries old dry stone technique characterized by carefully … Read more
Located in Poblenou, this student housing project comprises 25 modular units organized through solar optimization. Using Galapagos, the massing evolved through iterative simulations based on incident radiation, calibrating orientation and spacing to maximize winter sunlight while mitigating summer heat gain. The result is a compact, climate-responsive structure where environmental logic shapes architectural form—balancing solar access, … Read more
This project explores the climatic optimization of modular student housing units located in Barcelona, each with dimensions of 5m x 4m x 7.5m. The focus is on developing comfortable, energy-efficient living spaces by strategically analyzing and refining the positioning of openings, enabling effective cross ventilation, and incorporating humidity-absorbing esparto material as part of the building … Read more
After spending some time learning about timber joinery last term, this term was all about implementing these logics onto a larger and more complex system: a small chunk of a bird observatory. We designed and made all of the beams that comprised the chunk, which were all unique to one another. Some were straight, others … 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
RICE PRODUCTION AROUND THE WORLD METABOLIC DIAGRAM OF RICE HUSK IMPLICATIONS IN SEVERAL INDUSTRIES STATISTICS OF RICE HUSK PRODUCTION PROPOSAL RICECRETE Rice Husk has good thermal insulation and is lightweight, and due to its high silica content, it is water resistant. Rice Crete is a natural building material from rice husks and natural binders. This … Read more
Case Study CYCLOPEAN HOUSE Constructed in 2015, this project was designed by Ensemble Studio and resides in Brookline, Massachusetts. “Cyclopean House is built, using the vigor of the builder, and the ingenuity of the engineer, to start a journey from the place of its manufacture –Madrid- to the place where it can definitely lie … Read more
