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.
Our project explores the reuse of discarded tires and construction pallet waste in a low-cost, modular foundation and flooring system. The project integrates a stacked tire foundation, where the lower tire distributes load while the upper resists lateral forces and uplift. A custom clamp secures both tires, anchoring a base plate with tolerance for vernacular … Read more
unlocking the potential of reclaimed timber This project explores the structural potential of reused timber in the development of a load-bearing wardrobe system. By adopting a stock-based design approach, we optimize material efficiency, sustainability, and structural performance. Through physical prototyping and computational analysis using Karamba 3D, we assess various connection strategies, including dowel joints, interlocking … Read more
Bringing together structural design and thermal performance! Section 1 : Introduction to Hempcrete Hempcrete has excellent insulating properties, providing thermal regulation by allowing the building to breathe and reduce moisture build-up. The thermal conductivity of hempcrete is typically in the range of 0.06 to 0.07 W/mK, which is about half the thermal conductivity of concrete. … Read more
Garden of Sacred Geometry Welcome to Flora Sagrada at Sagrada Família. The alternative Sacristy offers an immersive journey through nature, art, and geometry. Sacristy Transformed: Living Greenhouse DESIGN: The Sacristy evolves into a living, breathing space that harmonizes architecture and nature.LOCAL: perfect conditions for endangered local plant species.EXPERIENCE: Visitors explore a dynamic ecosystem within Gaudí’s … Read more
Concept The design concept for the Spiritual Retreat Center draws inspiration from Antoni Gaudí’s profound integration of nature in the Sagrada Família. Just as Gaudí translated organic forms into architectural elements, we aim to go beyond mere inspiration by incorporating natural elements—sunlight filtering through dynamic openings, water features that enhance tranquility, lush indoor gardens fostering … Read more
Creating Interactive, Dynamic, and Emotional Urban Spaces Through Light (TERM 1) I. The Problems with Night Lighting II. MENTAL HEALTH AND NEUROARCHITECTURE III. COLOR, LIGHT, AND EMOTION IV. STATE OF THE ART V. BOSTON SITE STUDIES VI. NEXT STEPS – DESIGN
The idea of ‘craft’ for us is a blend of traditional hands-on skills and modern digital techniques. The experience reinforced that craft is an evolving dialogue between hand and machine, where both bring unique strengths to the process. PROCESS – JOINT PROTOTYPES JOINT 1 (CNC) JOINT 2 (CNC) JOINT 3 (CNC) JOINT 4 (MANUAL) JOINT … Read more
Hybrid Joints explores the line between craft and art through a collection of digitally and manually crafted joints. Using Grasshopper instead of CAM software, we modeled directly in 3D and iterated quickly. We found that digital woodcraft is a craft itself, requiring not just technical knowledge but also strategy, adaptability, and problem-solving. Machines alone weren’t … Read more
We began by understanding the context around the site of our project. More specifically, we dove into understanding the Sagrada Familia and what a sacristy is and entails. During our visit, we started analyzing the geometries found inside the basilica and how they connect to each other. Additionally, we studied the connections between different elements … Read more
. ABSTRACT . For our concept; we decided to used different level In opposition with the current sacristy. During the visit of the building we were a bit disappointed to see that this elegant shape composed of 12 parboloid was divided in 4 different floor that canceled kinda the benefit that the shape brought to … Read more
Back2Besòs is an urban game for all ages, where players explore Besòs by finding and solving riddles, uncovering the past, and engaging with the barrio’s spaces in unconventional ways – to learn about its people, their daily lives, historical occupations and their skills. BESÒS CONTEXT Besòs has a complex history of urban transformations driven by … 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
