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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Seats and Sightlines

The App The purpose of the app is to help Step 0 of designing a stadium. This is a complex subject, in fact FIFA has a 1300 page handbook capturing the explicit requirements for every aspects of the design, down to the finest details, which is driven by benchmarked operational needs. The scope of the … Read more

Shadow Dome Configurator

Web Application for Dome Design General Description: The Shadow Dome Configurator is a Grasshopper-based tool designed to generate and customize wood domes optimized for shade creation. It enables users to adjust parameters such as dimensions (radius & height), perforation size and patterns to control light and shadow effects. This tool is ideal for designing shaded … Read more

NeoCapsules – A Modular Approach to Sustainability

Evolving Nakagin Capsule Tower

NeoCapsules is an innovative residential project inspired by the Nakagin Capsule Tower, reimagined to suit modern needs. Unlike the original design, which featured small, single-use capsules, NeoCapsules offers modular units in different sizes to accommodate families, young professionals, and individuals with diverse lifestyles. This flexibility allows residents to select layouts that best match their needs, … Read more

TRAVELNA / Hospitality for solo travelers

TRAVELNA is an innovative architectural design concept merging the subscription model of services like Netflix with Airbnb’s global accommodation network, tailored for solo travelers frequently moving across major cities worldwide. Subscribers gain access to a curated selection of high-quality apartments—ranging from studios to three-bedroom units—aligned with their chosen subscription tier. To ensure exclusivity and availability, … Read more

Energy Consumption for Interchangeable Units in a Mixed Use Building Typology

For our MaCAD Studio project, we wanted to explore the idea of circularity during the assembling/disassembling stage of the various programmatic functions housed by the building structure. The main materials employed are CLT and Reinforced Steel, of which we picked the first to be the focus of our study since it is the primary material … Read more

NeoCapsules: modular living design

NeoCapsules Residence: A Vision for Modern Family Living Affordable design solution for families NeoCapsules, an innovative residential complex inspired by the Nakagin Tower concept, offers a dynamic and adaptable living environment that seamlessly integrates sustainability with an urban lifestyle. This innovative approach fosters growth, flexibility, and community interaction, making it more than just a building, … Read more

PARAMETRIC NEXUS

Designing a Mixed-Use High-Rise for Urban Efficiency and Adaptability In the evolving urban landscape, designing a high-rise that blends commercial, residential, and recreational spaces requires thoughtful planning and innovative approaches. Our project, Parametric Nexus, employs parametric design tools to optimize functionality, sustainability, and adaptability. Here’s a closer look at the key elements of our design … Read more

Parasyte: Growing exisiting structure

INTRODUCTION We approached our parametric project with a top-down methodology, emphasizing the importance of urban, climatic, social, and economic parameters. These factors, alongside the needs for project development, are crucial when discussing architecture that focuses on the reuse and recycling of existing structures in both established and developing contexts. CONCEPT & STAGES The algorithm is … Read more

SYSTEM ON A CHIP

DATA CENTER: A BOTTOM-UP APPROACH WITH MODULAR AGGREGATION Data creation is exploding. With all the selfies and useless files people refuse to delete on the cloud, by the year 2025, there will be 200+ zettabytes of data in cloud storage. This explosion of data triggers the industry to streamline data management, security and storage, raising … Read more

The Perch – A Generative Building Typology

Introduction In our studio project, we use a combined bottom up and top down approach to develop a mixed use building; designed to integrate multiple functions, including residential, recreational, and commercial, within a single structure. Our goal is to feature a flexible layout, using modular construction techniques and clear circulation patterns, with well-designed junctions. Programmatic … Read more

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

MakerHub – A Discrete Aggregation Recipe for Creative Industry Spaces

Strategy // Bottom-up Industrial High-rise 4. Adaptability to Change evolving needs or technological advancements, and allows for easy upgrading or replacement of capsules 3. Prefabrication & Mass Production Prefabrication and standardization. 2. Central Core Structure The capsules are connected to a central core  the building can grow or contract in response to societal changes 1. Modular … Read more

Evolving Nakagin Tower: parametric structural model

Concept Our project reimagines the modular, adaptable spirit of the Nakagin Capsule Tower for contemporary sustainable architecture. Drawing inspiration from Kisho Kurokawa’s Metabolist vision—where buildings function as dynamic systems composed of interchangeable units—we developed a parametric and highly flexible building system. The core concept centers on a central concrete core, providing stability and integrated infrastructure. … Read more

The Perch – Analysis of Generative Glulam and Steel Beam Structure

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

Milan – Environmental Strategies for Early Design Stages

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