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.

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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

The Cellular Dune

Project Brief Forces of Nature explores how architectural form can emerge from the interaction of natural forces rather than being predefined. Using computational simulations, the project allows tension, gravity, and equilibrium to shape spatial structures. The installation translates invisible physical behaviors into visible design, creating a form that is discovered through force-driven processes and realized … Read more

Computational Design Seminar II | Air-Cast Shell

Site analysis The architectural intervention is situated within Plaça de la Virreina, a prominent public square in the Gràcia district. The initial analysis involved a comprehensive mapping of existing urban conditions, specifically focusing on the primary access points to the square and the location of existing trees. These environmental constraints were not viewed as obstacles … Read more

Reciprocal Canopy

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

REPOSE

Computational Design II (Level 2) – Final Assignment This project proposes a computational timber pavilion for the IAAC rooftop in Barcelona, conceived as a Bio-Maker space that integrates digital fabrication, structural logic, and urban biodiversity. The structure is generated through a parametric space-frame system composed of American oak members connected through stainless steel bolt ball … Read more

Arcada Viva

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

Syntactic Assemblage

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

MIRADOR

After Gaudi Seminar2025 / 2026 Narrative El Mirador funciona como un instrumento espacial que marca tres referencias : el mar Mediterráneo, la Sagrada Familia y Montjuïc, estableciendo un diálogo entre estructura, geometría, expresión material y paisaje. Siguiendo la estrategia de encuadre de la Casa Milà, donde la Sagrada Familia se plasma mediante una abertura arquitectónica … Read more

After Gaudi Seminar I: Interpretation Center

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 Interpretation Center: Defining the Cultural Program An Interpretation Center is not just an exhibition space; it is … Read more

The Kinetic Node Pavilion

Architectural render of the final timber pavilion, showing integrated ramps for skateboarding and shaded areas for pedestrians.

The Kinetic Node proposes a dynamic pavilion located in the central pedestrian zone of Plaça de la Universitat, Barcelona. Developed within a computational design seminar, the intervention explores the intersection of generative algorithms and active public space. The design utilizes parametric tools to generate a fluid structure where architectural form seamlessly transitions into skateable terrain, … Read more

Palmetric

Site introduction The project is a pavilion conceived for the Plaça Reial (Royal Square) in Barcelona, Spain, which is a renowned, sophisticated square adorned with porticos, located just off Las Ramblas in the Gothic Quarter. This square is celebrated for its palm trees, fountain, lively nightlife featuring bars and restaurants, and serves as a central … Read more

CANOPY DIALOGUE

Canopy Dialogue introduces a temporary pavilion designed through computational form-finding, responding directly to the existing trees and social life of Plaça de la Virreina. | SITE LOCATION | The project is located in Plaça de la Virreina, Gràcia, Barcelona, a dense urban plaza defined by strong pedestrian flows, tree rows, and community activity. | SITE … Read more

Mining The City

“Metabolising waste into habitat in a resource-scarce future” “Mining the City” reconceives legacy industrial infrastructure as an active force for urban regeneration and material resilience. Rather than treating waste as a problem to be discarded, this project positions Barcelona’s material flows from household refuse to industrial by-products as the resource base for a new metabolic … Read more

Escates de Peix

Concept Inspiration Creating a dynamic facade using can ran atelier’s three dimensional ‘kinetic tile’ approach. Rotation to be determined by controllable attractor curve Colourful tile/mosaic facades are often found in Barcelona design contexts. Early Iterations Pseudo Code High Quality Video: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BpDajnOIM52dp8Mcx5DFvEiamOlLwxH_/view?usp=sharing

The Crown Loop

Abstract – This project introduces a crown-shaped stepped pavilion on the periphery of Plaça de Catalunya, serving as both an event gateway and an everyday public platform. Inspired by the geometry of a crown, the looping form rises in stepped layers to create vantage points, circulation, and sculptural presence. Developed through a parametric Grasshopper workflow, … Read more