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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L.E.D.Pick

Robotic mushroom picker The project focuses on developing an automated mushroom harvesting system that combines precise height sensors with an intelligent robotic arm. The sensors measure the mushrooms’ height in real-time and compare the data to a predefined optimal harvesting height. When a mushroom reaches the desired height, the system activates an LED light, signaling … Read more

Fragment

Concept Draw inspiration from the lighting effects in David Bowie’s live performances, mainly the stuttering, fragmented, and dynamic atmosphere they created. My design concept seeks to amplify this spatial experience, crafting a shattered, mosaic-like sense of space that immerses people in a unique and transformative environment. Prototype I created a mirrored wall installation composed of … Read more

Fab-twist

Introduction to Programming andPhysical Computing An intelligent and adaptive facade system that dynamically responds to environmental light intensity and human proximity, creating an ever-changing architectural surface that enhances both functionality and aesthetics. The facade integrates kinetic elements that rotate based on two key parameters: Light Intensity: The system uses sensors to monitor sunlight or artificial … Read more

Water Light Canvas Maze

An interactive art installation that combines  water and light to create an ephemeral experience. It consists of a maze with walls embedded with panels of LED lights that are activated upon contact with water. When water is applied to the surface the LEDs light up, allowing participants to “draw” or write with water. Depending on … Read more

Adaptive Facade Lighting

Adaptive Facade Lighting

Concept Cities today often face lighting issues: some facades are overly bright, while others are too dim. This creates discomfort for residents. Moreover, such lighting results in inefficient energy use and increases light pollution, negatively affecting the environment, public health, and the quality of urban life. An adaptive lighting system addresses these challenges by adjusting … Read more

BIRDSHIELD

A study held this year by the American Bird Conservancy showed that building collisions kill more than a billion birds a year only in the US. Therefore, to prevent this BirdShield serves as a responsive facade that opens and closes with servo motors based on the ultrasonic distance to flying birds. References Schematic Made with … Read more

SensoryGlow

Interactive Motion & Sound-Based Dynamic Lighting System CONCEPT SCHEMATCIS Flowchart Hardware Components: Arduino Integration: Functionality: Output: Circuit Diagram Final Prototype

Chromo Sense

Concept Chromo Sense is an interactive lighting system designed in park like spaces , where there is an interaction between humans and non-humans, in which there is efficient amount of lighting that doesn’t disturb the wildlife but also to respond to human presence. Motion sensors are incorporated into the project to activate lights as people approach … Read more

Ignis Bloom

Concept A public installation that combines lampposts with benches, creating a multifunctional space where people can rest during the day amidst lush greenery. The installation is powered by solar panels that track the maximum amount of sunlight throughout the day, ensuring optimal energy capture. The design offers shelter from the elements, and at night, the … Read more

ADAPTIVE WINDOW BLINDERS

INTRODUCTION TO PROGRAMMING AND PHYSICAL COMPUTING CONCEPT This innovative prototype is designed to automatically adjust the angle of shading in response to changing ambient light conditions, enhancing both comfort and energy efficiency. The project is focused on enhancing energy efficiency, comfort, and usability in architectural spaces by effectively harnessing and optimizing natural light. This approach … Read more

The green cone_

Future landscape The Green Cone is an experimental environmental project designed to isolate a landscape area within a translucent cone, simulating a winter garden effect. The objective is to raise the internal temperature by 1.5°C, mimicking the predicted global temperature increase expected by 2050 due to climate change. By recreating these conditions, the Green Cone … Read more

Miralls del demà | Mirrors of tomorrow – LLUM 2025

Llum BCN is a leading lighting arts festival in Europe and a cultural event highly appreciated by the citizens of Barcelona. Organised by Barcelona City Council, Llum BCN brings together interventions by creators from all areas of the visual arts, including contemporary art, design, architecture, technology and lighting design. During the three-day festival, the Poblenou neighborhood … Read more

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

ECOVEY: WEARABLE DELIVERY MANAGMENT SYSTEM

will update everything after finals : ) ECOVEY is a project of Urban Shift, developed during the Master in Advanced Architecture (MAA02) at IAAC, the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia, by students: Anastasija Vidović (IAAC), Alessa Honetschläeger (WU), Killian Karb (HDM) Erik Allmer (TU Wien) faculty: Chiara Farinea, Fiona Demeur & the Urban Shift … Read more