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.
Overview of the three variations Diagrams Option selected Beam design options Beam design selected Karamba Assembly diagrams Assembly + Physical model Failure moment Collapse of the installation Karamba analysis Improvement option Embodied CO2 Personal conclusions
INTRODUCTION As part of the Structural Design Essentials Workshop, our team explored alternative beam designs for Alejandro Aravena’s Quinta Monroy project. Using reclaimed timber, we designed and analyzed a castellated beam to support vertical growth. Both digital simulations with Karamba3D and physical tests were conducted to evaluate its structural performance and sustainability. SKETCHES Quinta Monroy … Read more
FABRICATION PROCESS BEAM TEST -Beam test with interlocking shear panels positions at splice in bottom and top flanges. -Failure is located in the shear panel where the bottom splice is located. -The physical beam test differs with the Karamba analysis due to the screws location and the wood quality. The karamba analysis does not have … Read more
Stability Split project explores sustainable construction using scavenged materials and recycled wood for a structural beam. In the first phase, a case study of the Google headquarters in London was analyzed using Karamba software to explore structural efficiency and redesign its system. Two design options—arched and stacked—were proposed as alternatives to improve structural performance and … Read more
For the creation of our recycled beam we chose to repurpose parts of a wooden pallet that we found on the street, transforming discarded material into a functional structural element. This approach not only demonstrates the potential of upcycling in construction but also highlights sustainability by reducing waste and giving new life to materials that … Read more
CASE STUDY – GOOGLE HQ Exploration from the Case Studies.` Diagram Analysis Set up – Load & Mass Distribution Beam Test Design Investigation Truss with blocks (Vierendeel) using reclaimed hardwood exploring amount of overlap, number of blocks and impact of gaps between blocks. Beam Test Design Reclaimed Timber Block Truss Beam Fabrication Testing Videos The … Read more
Structural Design Essentials Workshop Introduction The primary objective of the workshop was to explore innovative ideas in structural engineering by experimenting with materials and their compositions to create components. Specifically, the aim was to engineer a structural beam designed for integration into the case study structure, the Aravena Building, and to evaluate its structural strength … Read more
A Methodological Approach to Urban Growth and Hybrid Energy Systems in the Global South Why Global South ? Urbanization in the Global South is a defining trend of the 21st century, with over 90% of urban growth expected to occur in low- and middle-income countries by 2050. This rapid expansion has led to a surge … Read more
Optimising Modular Skyscrapper design through environmental and spatial intelligence
Learning from Yesterday, Live for Today, Hope for future, The important thing is not to stop questioning. Albert Einstein
Located in the quiet community of Sant Adria De Besos lies the Besos Power Station. This waste to energy power plant is responsible for providing power to over 10 municipalities of Spain and takes care of nearly half of the waste that comes into Barcelona. While this factory proves to be highly effective, several negative … Read more
DESIGN STRATEGY The “Morpho” Residences originated from the a top down approach, this means that the algorithm behind it uses predefined sets of rules to create its geometry. The “Morpho” Residences originated from the a top down approach, this means that the algorithm behind it uses predefined sets of rules to create its geometry. The typology we … Read more
Insights from LCA, Materials, Energy, Circuitry, and Transport Modular design is increasingly becoming a cornerstone of sustainable construction, offering innovative ways to balance environmental responsibility with functional efficiency. Our recent exploration through five interconnected sessions—ranging from Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) to energy use, advanced manufacturing, and transport—has provided profound insights into how we can optimize modular … Read more
