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.
Welcome to a deep dive into the AdaptiveFlow Tower, a groundbreaking high-rise residential project developed under the guidance of the IAAC – MaCAD – ACESD program. Conceived by Amira El-Saeed, Aleyna Kırcalı, and Mohamed Attay, this project represents a pioneering approach to urban living where adaptability and sustainability intersect seamlessly with architectural innovation. Concept Design … Read more
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
Concept The concept of our proposal seeks to integrate into a building a residential program implemented with the incorporation of nature, creating ecosystems where people and nature can coexist. People Nature Ecosystems Structurally speaking, we wanted to transfer the general concept of the project to the structure by adopting sinuous geometries that respond simultaneously to … Read more
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
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
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
