The MaCAD is a unique online programme training a new generation of architects, engineers and designers ready to develop skills into the latest softwares, computational tools, BIM technologies and AI towards innovation for the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry.

Martian Aggreculture

The Martian Aggreculture project envisions a food production facility for the first colony on Mars. Our combinatorial modelling approach is data driven – flowing from the demands of the program and the realities of building on Mars into our aggregated architecture to provide a decentralized and resilient food production facility. Colonization at the Aggreculture site … Read more

Alfafa Colony: BIM & Smart Construction

Project Concept Establishing a Martian food colony around a Mohole, designed based on growth morphology of alfalfa for efficient organization and development using L-systems. These terminologies are further explained below. Moholes Moholes on Mars are massive cylindrical excavations in the regolith, reaching up to 1 km in diameter and 7 km in depth. With temperatures … Read more

Timber Lattice System – A Tale of Cairo’s Rooftops

This research aims to explore the application of timber lattice systems on roofs in Cairo, Egypt. Before delving into the project itself, a thorough review of relevant references was essential for a better understanding of the system. The building analyzed was the Sunny Hills Cake Shop, designed by Kengo Kuma and Associates. Characterized by a … Read more

Timber Showroom in Trento, IT

Timber Showroom in Trento The Project investigates generative design approaches for optimizing timber construction Systems on both The Support’s level (Tree structure that distributes puncture forces and achieves wider spans) and the Slab’s level (generative Timber Slab reinforcement that follows the Principle Moment Lines generated from FE simulations on pre-given Supports). The objective of the … Read more

Hygroscopic Vaults

In the ever-evolving landscape of architectural innovation, the exploration of materials and construction techniques plays a pivotal role in shaping sustainable and efficient structures. This presentation delves into the fascinating realm of hygroscopic vaults, examining the transformative potential of wood in response to varying moisture content. Through an in-depth analysis of the hygroscopic behavior of … Read more

Frihamns Navet Port HUB. Multilevel Timber-skeletons… at work 

This project, approached as a demonstrative project, was elaborated by Group 8, Anna Irene Del Monaco and Athanasios Vagias and worked on multilevel Timber structure.  We started investigating precedents on timber skeleton structure. Our initial interest fell on the Maggie’s center by Foster and partners for the masterful creation of a refined structural node in … Read more

Timber Ruled Surfaces – Architectural System

?The architectural system of the project is derived from two precedents; first, the Temple of Light in Canada, from Patkau Architects, which uses a series of identical ruled surfaces in a polar array. Next, the Mactan Cebu International Airport in the Philippines from Integrated Design Associates, which also uses identical ruled surface modules, in a … Read more

Timber Gridshell – Pattern based analysis

The focus of the project is to develop a new school for the city of Manchester. Much of the recent construction boom in the city has focused on high-cost luxury accommodation, leaving a gap in the provision of essential community amenities. Our proposal aims to address social concern by advocating for the establishment of a … Read more

Tree-Shaped Timber Structural System

Architectural Concept Located in the northern part of Italy in Trento, famous for timber construction, our site is perched atop a cliff at the city’s highest point. We initiated our project by focusing on tree construction, leveraging the terrain to our advantage. Structural Design Explorations In our quest for the optimal structural form, we explored … Read more

???Bamboo bundle – Structural Analysis & Optimisation

Introduction Nestled in the heart of Quito, Ecuador, this architectural Ecuador seeks to harness the sustainability and versatility of bamboo to create an innovative 2700 m² educational space. Encompassing vibrant classrooms, communal areas, and serene green spaces, the structure is both a sanctuary of knowledge and a beacon of ecological design. It invites students and … Read more

Kagome Timber Lattice – Structural Analysis

Introduction The site we are investigating is an abandoned Railway Network Factory and is located at the next to Makkasan Airport Link Station in Bangkok, Thailand. Initited as part of studio, we are looking at utilising a timber lattice structure to host programmes (i.e open market, civic gathering area) within the spaces as a cultural … Read more

Minimal Surface Timber Gridshell – Structural Analysis

In the dynamic field of structural design, efficiency has emerged as a central theme driving innovative solutions. Our recent venture in the structural design and optimization seminar delves into the intriguing concept of minimal surfaces applied to timber gridshell structures. But what exactly do we mean by minimal surfaces? Defined as shapes that require the … Read more

Segmental Timber Panel Shell Structural Analysis

Tahsis BC Canada Our project is located in Tahsis, BC a former timber milling town that has become dilapidated since the closure of the sawmill in 2001, with a population decline of 90%. We aim to reinvigorate the town by providing access for tourism, attracted by the wildlife that has returned to the inlet since … Read more

Modular Bamboo – Massing Structural Analysis

Introduction Bamboo is considered one of the oldest materials used in construction, it has been widely used throughout history by many civilizations. Naturally growing in tropical regions such as South America, Asia and Africa. In this proposal, we explore the potential of utilizing bamboo in a modular manner to create a social housing in the … Read more

Hygroscopic Timber Vaults

Our project is an artisan market within a cultural centre in Srinagar, India. In our initial analysis of hygroscopic timber, we identified key factors influencing its behaviour. The bilayer structure, consisting of an active and a passive layer, allows panels to deform in response to moisture content changes. We also found a third locking layer … Read more