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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Computational Sustainability at NEXT

Introduction Sustainability is no longer optional in architecture, yet translating ecological principles into measurable, data-driven design remains a challenge. NEXT’s use of computational tools demonstrates how these workflows can enhance energy efficiency, resource optimization, and ecological integration, but widespread adoption requires overcoming barriers. This research will explore how NEXT Architects applies digital tools to improve … 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

The Power of a good BIM Execution Plan

Abstract The BIM scope of a project still has many ambiguities, challenges, and known difficulties related to internal and external politics and other human factors. Project stakeholders usually have overlapping but in most cases different interests, e.g. tendering consultants and contractors want clearer definitions to be able to minimize their risk when submitting an offer, … Read more

Digital Transformation in BIM – Bridging the Innovation Gap

G11-Podcast: Digital Transformation in Bim, Working with Frank Gehry, Catia, Revit and The Future of Design Tech. With Frederic Herbere Interviewed by Paul Sanchez and Jose Lazo Brief: BIM, while essential for architectural documentation and coordination, falls short as a fluid design tool. Its rigid workflows, lack of real-time adaptability, and limited generative capabilities hinder … Read more

Tower Design App

The Tower Design App is an interactive web application that empowers architects and designers to create and refine tower designs. Users start by uploading a site file in 3DM format, which establishes the design context. They then adjust a variety of design parameters through intuitive sliders that control component heights, floor plate sizes, rotations, and … Read more

AI-powered Computational Design for Sustainability in Early-Design Stages

Introduction In this episode of the MaCAD Theory podcast, we explore with our guest Mr. Alessandro Grossi the growing importance of sustainable practices in the AEC sector, driven by climate change and resource scarcity. We dive into how integrating sustainability principles early in the design process can impact lifecycle costs and environmental outcomes.Listen to how … Read more

Integrative Modelling – Hyper B Facade Team

Parametric and Environmental Data Integration in BIM Workflows Hyper Building B is a collaborative project developed during the MaCAD 24/25 second-term studio course. As part of the facade team, we were responsible for designing the building envelope and ensuring it harmonizes with the interior program and structural system while maintaining thermal comfort, optimizing views for … Read more

Integration of Digital Twin Technology in Building Renovation and Restoration

Exploring Digital Twins with Quinn Evans The integration of Digital Twin Technology in building renovation and restoration is transforming the industry, enhancing data accuracy, workflow efficiency, and long-term asset management. By creating precise digital replicas of structures, digital twins enable real-time updates, predictive maintenance, and seamless coordination across project teams. A leading example of this … Read more

BIM automated process in design workflow

Integrative Concept Introduction The goal of the integrative modeling seminar is to transition this design from a computational model into Revit, enabling us to generate construction documentation, schedule project’s elements, and assess the overall project data, therefore the performance of our concepts through KPIs. Concept Our Team’s vision is to create the Enso hyper building. … Read more

Open BIM – Enhancing Collaboration and Interoperability in Practice

Abstract The Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry faces increasing challenges in ensuring seamless collaboration and interoperability across different disciplines and software platforms. While Open BIM offers a standardized approach to data exchange and digital workflows, its practical implementation is often addressed by technical limitations, inconsistent adoption, and resistance to change. In this podcast, we … Read more

DATA MANAGEMENT FINAL PROJECT

A browser based application allows the user to simulate solar radiation on a building by uploading the geometry and context ,selection the weather data and season then running the simulation and possible scenario of the solid to void ration. The total area of the panels is provided and a break down for solid and void ... Read more

Timber Sunscape: Densify blocks with area and solar constraints

Solar

Project Concept This tool uses open source data to estimate a site’s Floor Area Ratio (FAR) and allows users to explore different volumetric configurations. It leverages modular units based on CLT Mass Timber for a flexible structural framework and incorporates solar angle data to optimize designs for sustainability and contextual responsiveness. Who is the End … Read more

Design Automation for Architectural Design in Small Steps

BRIEF PROBLEM: Architectural design is a complex process that often involves repetitive tasks, human errors, and inefficiencies that can slow down workflows. While Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools like Autodesk Revit have significantly improved design and documentation processes, the absence of structured automation continues to limit optimization, particularly for architectural design firms. Many firms struggle … Read more

Structure Team – Hyper A – Integrative Modelling

Bringing Hyper Building A’s Complex Structure into Revit with Rhino.Inside. Integrating Parametric Workflows in BIM Hyper Building A is a collabortive project developed during the studio course on MaCAD’s 24/25 second term. As the structure team we had the task of creating and developing the hyperbuilding’s structural system. In the Integrative Modelling seminar, we developed … Read more