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.
Introduction In 1950, Alan Turing posed a fundamental question, “Can machines think?”. Our exploration aims to extend this quest by considering additional questions: can machines develop the higher-order thinking described, as described in Bloom’s taxonomy? Can they create, dream, or imagine? To understand imagination and machine creation, we first examine perception, i.e., the processes of … Read more
This post describes the development of a method to predict metro station locations using Graph Neural Networks (GNNs). Our journey began with a challenge familiar to urban planners: how to strategically place new metro stations to optimize transportation networks. In this case the city of Stockholm was used as testbed. The Challenge of Data Imbalance: … Read more
Beginnings Our project’s concept is to develop a classification model that identifies street intersections (graph nodes) in Stockholm, Sweden, susceptible to flooding during a 100-year flood event. Based on our initial research, we found that graph machine learning operates at three levels: the graph, its edges, and its nodes. With access to a 100-year flood … Read more
Setting the Scene In today’s digital landscape, our interactions are increasingly mediated by technology itself rather than as a medium for human communication. This shift creates an illusion of connectivity while fostering isolation, often trapping us in algorithm-driven echo chambers that reinforce our beliefs. Artificial intelligence now guides our lives, listening, learning, and providing information … Read more
AI in the Anthropocene The architectural profession is currently at a critical juncture, faced with the dual challenges of advancing artificial intelligence (AI) and the escalating climate crisis. Many architects harbour fears of obsolescence as AI’s capabilities expand, potentially automating tasks that traditionally require human expertise. This concern is not unfounded, as AI-driven tools increasingly … Read more
Digital twins or “digital replica” refer to a highly detailed virtual model of a physical building or infrastructure project, and through real-time monitoring the delivery of continuously updated data about systems and construction processes can be recorded within BIM. In a “House of Digital Twin”, the foundation of the house is Building Information Modeling (BIM), … Read more
3 Pocast Episodes with Immanuel Koh, Håvard Vasshaug, and Angelos Chonics Architects often face challenges when dealing with diverse data formats and the manual recreation of forms in Building Information Modeling (BIM) software. These obstacles can result in time-consuming processes, errors, and discrepancies between design intentions and construction execution. AI tools such as LunchboxML, PlanFinder, … Read more
Abstract Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing global industries, with the AEC sector being no exception. This study embarks on a comprehensive examination of AI’s role within Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows, exploring its implications and envisioning the industry’s future post-AI integration. Initial Research Among the available AI aided BIM tools, we looked at the commonly used … Read more
“Building Information Modeling (BIM) in urban scale data management refers to the strategic integration of digital modeling techniques, for the thorough organization and oversight of urban infrastructure and services. This process entails crafting 3D models that encompass sets of data layers—including architectural, infrastructural, and environmental aspects—to streamline city planning, design, and operation.” The use of … Read more
PROBLEM STATEMENT The predominant usage of digital processes in the current practice of architecture. However, with the many positives there are known inherent and latent constraints (e.g., data encryption, cloud breaches, and copyright issues) and other possible complexities and challenges. THESIS STATEMENT To inquire the understanding of the adoption of digital processes in the practice … Read more
We’ve witnessed a fascinating shift from conventional to computational approaches, responsive designs, and the era of automation. Machine Learning, a term buzzing everywhere these days, has made its mark in our industry as well. In architecture, ML, a subset of artificial intelligence, utilizes data to tackle challenges in computer-aided design by simulating various design alternatives … Read more
Challenge The available Building Information Modeling (BIM) applications in the AEC industry help create geometry and add meta-data. However, the files generated by this software are neither readable nor editable by any other application. Additionally, the metadata added to geometry lives as disconnected copies in several models. These issues lock AEC companies to particular software … Read more
The Tools In the world of Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC), designers have access to a plethora of tools, ideologies, and software to make their visions a reality. Within this vast space of options for designers to choose from, there are more specifically, tools that deal with Generative Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM). Software … Read more
Sustainability and collective intelligence Manifesto diagram illustrating the participatory processes of the city inhabitants, created by the group Each section of this manifesto can be perceived independently. Choose the reading order and create your own narrative. The personalized narratives reflect the methodology to address the complexity of collaborative urban design processes at a macro level. … Read more
As we move further into the 21st century, our chances of averting climate change have all but disappeared. Analysis shows that global temperatures now sit 1.1? above pre-industrial levels and are set to rise to 1.5? by the early 2030s (Jotzo and Howden, 2023). This rapid increase in temperatures has led to loss of land … Read more
Intro Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which started on 24.02.2022, is the biggest war in Europe since WWII. It took the lives of dozens of thousands of Ukrainians and brought massive destruction [1] and ecological catastrophes. Some cities are completely erased. A massive piece of land is still occupied. This war and its consequences are … Read more
