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.

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Exploring Spatial Intelligence: Graph Machine Learning in Courtyard Design

Nestled within IAAC’s Master of Advanced Computational Design program, our recent investigation of Graph Machine Learning (Graph ML) sought to reimagine how we perceive, evaluate, and improve architectural spaces. Our team of Andrea, Leila, Lennart, and Mahnoor worked on a courtyard prototype to create a seamless process that combines parametric modeling, semantic data interchange, and … Read more

Acoustic Profiles

In modern residential architecture, acoustic comfort is as vital as daylighting or thermal performance. In our latest studio research at the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia, Group 09 tackled the challenge of mapping and optimizing sound behavior in homes using graph-based machine-learning workflows. Over the next five minutes, you’ll discover how we combined city-scale … Read more

The Carbon Blueprint

GWP-data enriched graphs Imagine being able to see the carbon footprint of a building, not after it’s built, but while it’s still a sketch. What if architects and engineers could get real-time sustainability feedback the moment they decide on a material or tweak a wall layout? That’s the vision behind Visual GWP. We combined Graph … Read more

HYPER A | STRUCTURE

In the ever-evolving world of architecture, Hyper A is an exploration into the limits—and freedoms—of structural design. We, the Structure Team, consisting of Joaquin Broquedis and myself, Marco Durand, are excited to present the structural concept that supports not just a building, but a multi-neighborhood urban vision. This blog offers a deeper look into our … Read more

Hyper B – Residential Team

Hyper B Residential

A Balance of living in a Hyper scale Concept Hyper-Buildings Have become a symbol of Dark and Dystopian living, where residences are in low living standards & disconnected from the world. Residential living in a hyper-building must balance high-density living with comfort, health, and amenities that can support and sustain inhabitants. The Residential Team aims … Read more

Hyperbuilding A – Data Team

Introduction As the Data Team, we didn’t produce any geometry. Instead, we focused on creating a data infrastructure that enhances collaboration between all design teams. Our primary goal was to streamline information flow, validate data integrity, and provide meaningful metrics that inform the design process. The Birth of our Holistic Approach One of the tacit … Read more

Hyper A – Facade Team

THE ESSENCE OF ENSO Ensō, the Zen circle, represents one of the most fundamental principles in Japanese aesthetics and philosophy. Traditionally drawn in a single, fluid brush stroke, it symbolizes: Complete Circle of Life)Main Unifying Theme: Like the Zen concept of ensō (the circle), the building embodies completeness through continuous cycles and perfect imperfection. Team … Read more

Harnessing Data-Driven Design: A Collaborative Look at Hyper B’s Industrial Team Vision for Urban Farming

Industrial team dedicated to rethinking how we approach urban farming, renewable energy, and multifunctional infrastructure, is leading the charge. Their integrated workflow uses parametric modeling, automated data exchange, and business intelligence (Power BI dashboard) to optimize space usage and resource allocation in urban environments. In this post, we dive into a series of visuals that … Read more

COLLABORATIVE WORKFLOW | HYPER A | STRUCTURE

This project was developed as part of the Collaborative Workflows course, which ran in parallel to our main Studio project. In the Studio, we worked in teams to design a Hyper Building—a complex, multi-neighborhood architectural system. As the Structural Team, our responsibility was to design and coordinate the structural system supporting the building. The Collaborative … Read more

Hyperbuilding B: A Structural Evolution

Introduction Welcome to an exploration of Hyperbuilding B’s structural innovations, brought to life by our dedicated structural team—Erva, Renuka, and Ernesto. Our journey was guided by Japanese design philosophies, advanced structural strategies, and meticulous collaboration with the design teams. This blog delves into our approach, workflow, and key performance metrics that shaped the Hyperbuilding B’s … Read more

HyperBuilding A – Data Team Collaborative SlackBot

Project Statement For our Collaborative assignment, we created a Slackbot that sends teams weekly or daily updates on their metric health and an abbreviated summary of the project.  Project Context The Data Team was responsible for the management of data flow and organization throughout the process, ensuring other teams could navigate through the dashboard and … Read more

Data Handling and Collaborative Workflows: Hyperbuilding-B Data Team

Our BIMSC studio project centers on designing a ‘hyperbuilding’ in Tokyo’s Minato Ward—a self-sustaining development that integrates closed-loop ecological systems like on-site food production, photovoltaic energy generation, and industrial modules. The building includes mixed-use zones for amenities, services, and commerce, all anchored by a transit hub built into a podium above Shinagawa Station, supporting the … Read more

Redefining BIM Boundaries: Creativity and Flexibility in Conceptual Design with Dr. Tahir Akkoyunlu

Redefining BIM Boundaries: Creativity and Flexibility in Conceptual Design In the latest episode of the MaCAD BIMSC Theory Podcast Series, part of the BIM and Smart Construction module at the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC), host Aleyna Kırcalı sat down with Dr. Tahir Akkoyunlu, an esteemed BIM expert and academic, to discuss the … Read more

HBIM and AI, a perspective on new technologies for Heritage architecture

Brief Heritage Building Information Modeling (HBIM) is a process for managing and conserving historical structures. Despite its potential and the European Directive 2014/24/EU, HBIM remains underutilized due to complex processes. AI-based technology can streamline HBIM processes at reduced costs, making heritage conservation more feasible. Technologies like LIDAR, TLS, photogrammetry (including UAVs), and SLAM, initially tested … Read more