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.

Filters

System on a chip: Data Center modular aggregation structural optimization

Concept The architectural concept is based on creating a data center that expands over time, following a Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) approach. At the core of the design is a superstructure, populated by smaller modular data halls. These are supported by a service program that includes operational spaces, storage, and MEP systems, particularly … Read more

Kaleidos

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

THE EDEN TOWER

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

Deconstructing Alcatraz

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

Landscape of Consequence

Semi Aerial View

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

άβυσσος avissos

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

Re (Form) Reality // ITERUM

The Context The prisoner’s journey is an emotional and psychological transformation. The spaces inhabited during this process are designed to mirror the evolving state of mind, fostering introspection and awareness.Architecture becomes a tools to reflect the prisoner’s internal experiences, guiding them through stages of self-realization: as the prisoners confront these emotions within the space, they … Read more

The Re-iterating Maze

The Re-Iterating Maze helps inmates at Alcatraz develop meditative practices through rehabilitation, using their sentence to make a more peaceful existence possible. Our concept allows prisoners a mindful form of exercise, allowing them to use their time outdoors exploring multidimensional pathways. Mindful walking encourages the brain to focus on the activity of traversing a determined path. By … Read more

RE:HABITAT

Abstract Prisons are constrained by tangible realities – static physical forms, high-density layouts, lack of amenity and limited access to natural spaces. These constraints are typically a result of inflexible systems and rigid hierarchies with high oversight to keep prisoner behaviour in check, but result in the need for efficient use of space and cost-effectiveness. … Read more

Urban Wind Flow Modeling with PINNs

Overview PaperLink WIP – This study specifically explores Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to analyze pedestrian wind comfort. It aims to integrate these neural network models into a web application using Three.js and other tools. By utilizing data from OpenWeatherMap, and OpenStreetMap, the project aims to support real-time simulations and visualizations … Read more

Climate Sensitive Facade Intervention for Urban Heat Island Mitigation

Research Questions: Can climate sensitive facade interventions reduce the intensity of the Urban Heat Island effect within urban blocks in arid climates?“ Research Goal: The goal is to propose simplified, climate-sensitive facade interventions in highly urbanized cities that reduce energy loads by mitigating Urban Heat Island (UHI) effects, while complying with climate-resilient regulations. These interventions … Read more

From image to graph to bim

A road map using Ai & computational design   # 01 the road map To convert a 2D raster plan into a BIM model, we first need to recognize the image contents and convert them into vectors, attaching relevant data. So , Our process focuses on three stages: image-to-vector, vector-to-graph , and finally graph-to-BIM During our … Read more

SafeNet: Network-Driven Machine Learning for Urban Safety

Abstract This study examines the pressing problem of violence against women in Mexico City, focusing specifically on strategies to prevent the escalation of violence that can lead to femicides. The persistence of gender-based violence in the city is aggravated by socioeconomic disparities, inadequate urban planning, and a deficiency of safe public spaces. The notable increase … Read more

Design as Grammar – Utilizing Graph ML for Modular determination

In a world driven by digital transformation, the realm of architecture and design faces new challenges in achieving flexibility, scalability, and efficiency. One of the most pressing issues is modular determination—how do we ensure that modular structures fit together seamlessly, across various design patterns? Design as Grammar addresses this by leveraging Graph Machine Learning (Graph … Read more

BIMConverse – GraphRAG for IFC Natural Language Queries

Introduction BIM and Cloud Adoption The construction industry is still experiencing a digital revolution led by the widespread adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and cloud computing technologies. BIM has established itself as the central tool for the digital planning, construction and management of buildings, while cloud computing is transforming collaboration and data access. Studies … Read more

Building Knowledge Graph

Table of contents Abstract Hypothesis Objective Overall process We start with a conceptual solid component, which is essentially a 3D representation of walls, slabs, doors, etc. We then classify the different components within the building. This helps us understand the boundary of spaces and the connection between them. Next, we extract the space massing from … Read more