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.
Computational Structural Optimization: A Case Study of High-Rise Integration Through Parametric Design When approaching the structural design of complex high-rise buildings, computational optimization becomes an invaluable tool in achieving both efficiency and architectural vision. In this post, I’ll walk you through a fascinating case study of how we utilized Karamba and Grasshopper to optimize a … Read more
Concept Our project reimagines the modular design of the Nakagin Capsule Tower for modern sustainable architecture. We’ve created a parametric adaptable building system featuring: This design allows for easy customization and future updates, extending the building’s lifespan while minimizing environmental impact. Our approach combines the visionary ideas of Metabolist architecture with contemporary sustainable building practices. … Read more
ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPT DECOMPOSITION | TOP DOWN APPROACH FUNCTIONS We have followed a top down approach for the creation of an algorithm that creates buildings that adapt to different climates and serve mostly to residential use. The algorithm starts dividing the plot into subplots using an optimized Voronoi segmentation, which are then arrayed and scaled in … Read more
Project Overview This structural analysis and optimization focuses on a studio project designed as an office and industrial hybrid typology housing creative industries, such as architecture studios and robotics fabrication labs. The building is generated through an aggregation process, resulting in variable building heights that generally fall within high-rise parameters. The structural system consists of … Read more
Urban landscapes are constantly evolving, with existing buildings often requiring new functions, sustainable upgrades, and modern aesthetics. In the IAAC’s course on structural optimization, our studio project, “Parasite,” embodies this transformative approach by exploring the potential of hybrid construction methods and adaptive reuse. Our goal was to breathe new life into existing reinforced concrete structures … Read more
INTRODUCTION In an era where architecture must balance aesthetic expression with structural efficiency, parametric design and computational tools have emerged as transformative forces. Our project explores a mixed-use commercial building, seamlessly integrating advanced structural systems to achieve a dynamic, functional, and visually compelling design. By utilizing Karamba3D for structural analysis and optimization, the project redefines … Read more
Our generative building is a mixed-use typology with height ranging from 4 to 12 stories. The primary design focus is to create a transformable and adaptable structure that can respond seamlessly to changing functional needs. To achieve this, the building incorporates lightweight, recyclable, and circular materials, paired with modular connection elements that allow for easy … Read more
Spring Summer Autumn Winter Figure 1.1: New York Seasonal Change New York City experiences distinct seasonal changes that shape its environment and urban character. In spring, the city transitions to milder conditions, with unpredictable weather patterns and renewed greenery. Summer brings intense heat and humidity, influencing activity patterns and urban energy demands. Fall is marked … Read more
LOCATION City: Milan Climatic cat.: Zone E, 2 404 DD – by ENEA National Agency Coordinates: 45°28′01″N 9°11′24″E Altitude: 120 m s.l.m. Characteristics: Hot summers and cold winters. Local exceptions to the humid subtropical climate model are to be expected.Protected from both cold winds and mild winds.High humidity, given the alluvial nature of … Read more
Architectural Concept Development Optimization of the Structural Elements with Galapagos An optimization is performed in Galapagos with Karamba3D to minimize the maximum displacement of the structure. The parameters being optimized include the steel truss cross-section, defined by its diameter and wall thickness, the truss height, and the slab thickness. Life Cycle Assessment of the building
This project explores the relationship between Singapore’s tropical climate and architectural design. By analyzing climatic data—such as temperature, humidity, solar radiation, and wind patterns—we evaluated how a specific building shape interacts with the environment. Through computational tools, we simulated the building’s performance to address key challenges like heat gain and airflow. The results informed potential … Read more
Gatwick: Located about 45 kilometers (28 miles) south of central London, is one of the city’s major international airports. Gatwick plays a role in tracking London’s climate through its IWEC (International Weather for Energy Calculation) station. Coordinates: Latitude: 51.099351, Longitude: -0.178547 Altitude: Approximately 70 meters (230 feet) above sea level. This area is relatively flat … Read more
Abstract The project, Kaleidos, is the story of a transformative rehabilitation system that redefines the experience of incarceration. It targets individuals undergoing psychological recovery, creating a dynamic, non-linear journey of healing. This architecture does more than confine—it evolves, adapts, and interacts with its users, guiding them through stages of denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. … Read more
Rome has a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average temperatures range from around 8.5°C in winter to about 31°C in summer. The city experiences moderate rainfall, with the wettest months typically being October and November. Climate Analysis In Rome, the bulb temperature, which reflects the combined effect of air … Read more
Austin has a humid subtropical climate (Köppen climate classification: Cfa), characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The city experiences long, hot summers and short, mild winters, with brief transitions in spring and fall. The climate data used in this analysis was obtained from: – Location: Austin-Mueller Municipal Airport, Texas, USA – Weather Station ID: 722540 … Read more
This analysis focuses on Richmond, Virginia in the United States of America. Weather conditions in Richmond are typical of a mid-latitude location. We’ve explored the environmental conditions that shape building design and urban planning in this mid-latitude location. Our focus is on a vacant lot at 701 East Canal Street, in downtown Richmond. This property … Read more
Understanding Abu Dhabi’s Climate and Its Impact on Design Abu Dhabi, classified as a subtropical desert under the Köppen-Geiger system, enjoys sunny blue skies year-round. However, its climate presents significant challenges due to extreme seasonal variations in temperature, humidity, and solar radiation. Key Climate Features Wind Patterns The prevailing winds are from the northwest, with … Read more
When it comes to designing sustainable urban spaces, understanding the local climate and environmental factors is crucial. This analysis on environmental conditions for Porto focuses on climate, thermal comfort, solar radiation, wind analysis, and urban heat mitigation. Here are the key takeaways from this comprehensive research. Climate Analysis: Understanding Porto’s Unique Conditions Porto’s climate is … Read more
INSPIRATION The project is born from the idea of rehabilitation, an inverse concept from Dante’s inferno, where the downward spiraling levels of damnation turn into and ascending stair of redemption. The process of re-insertion into society is understood as a Hero’s Journey towards the top, where the Garden of Eden awaits. Instead of being convicted … Read more
LOCATION General Characteristics of this climate Stockholm’s climate falls under the humid continental climate (Dfb) category according to the Köppen-Geiger classification. This means it experiences cold, snowy winters and mild to warm summers. Precipitation is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, though summers tend to have more rainfall. Winter temperatures in Stockholm can drop below freezing, while … Read more
Part 1: Climate Analysis Madrid falls into two koppen climate classification zones: a cold semi-arid climate (classification BSk) in the metropolitan area, and a mediterranean, dry-summer climate in the west half of the city (classification Csa). The main characteristics of this climate are hot, dry summers and cold, humid winters. There are also large temperate … Read more
1. Design Concept and computational Design System Obsolete typology Interpretation Deconstruction Understanding the current prisons as punitive institutions that fail to rehabilitate but imprison inmates without offering social inclusion solutions increases the risk of recidivism. Deconstructing Alcatraz proposes an alternative to this typological lack through its own reconstruction. In a VR environment the proposal consists … Read more
The Architecture of Second Chances Transforming Punishment into Progress Through Computational Design In the evolving discourse of criminal justice reform, the intersection of architecture, technology, and rehabilitation presents unprecedented opportunities to reimagine how we approach incarceration. Our project, “Landscape of Consequence,” proposes a radical reconceptualization of Alcatraz Island, transforming this symbol of isolation into a … Read more
What if punishment and rehabilitation could coexist in a fully immersive virtual environment? Can justice be achieved in the virtual realm? A Transformative Journey in Emotional Rehabilitation Avissos, named after the Greek word for the deepest part of the sea, reimagines emotional rehabilitation as a unique, multi-stage journey. This concept challenges individuals to confront empathy, … Read more
