During the first six months in the program, students are comprehensively trained in the principles of design and construction of advanced ecological buildings through a series of focused and intense modules, which include material production, thermal and metabolic building systems, ecological structures and façade systems and much more. After developing the necessary skills and a holistic understanding of advanced and ecological design, students collectively draft and build a full scale ecological building prototype.

Filters
Course

Collaborative Design Studio : Log Seats

Objective GAIN a comprehensive understanding of collaborative design principles within a community context. EXPLORE stakeholder engagement techniques to assess current usage and gather input for design improvements. DEVELOP innovative solutions that incorporate sustainable practices and local materials. CULTIVATE collaborative skills through group work, leveraging collective knowledge in the design process. ENHANCE communication skills through effective … Read more

First Steps into Fabrication

In the first phase of the discipline of Collaborative Design Studio, our group reimagined the rooftop playground of the primary school of Colegi Mare De Deu dels Angels in Barcelona, focusing on enhancing the children’s well-being. Through site visits, movement mapping, and participatory workshops with students, parents, and teachers, we identified key needs such as … Read more

Log seats-The Stumpies

The project “Log seats” explores the idea of using cut-wooden logs as playground elements for secondary school students to help create better playground environment. Objective The main aim of the project was to fabricate a seating element in the secondary school playground of Colegi Mare de Déu dels Angels in the city of Barcelona. The … Read more

Design and Fabrication 1 Trimester

The excitement was immense after nearly two weeks of living in Valldaura, as we were finally about to use the Fablab and all its machines. However, the excitement dimmed slightly when we learned that the CNC machine wouldn’t be operational for at least a month. This meant we wouldn’t be able to produce our stool … Read more

DESIGN AND FABRICATION

GRASSHOPPER SCRIPT: SINGLE STRIP SINGLE STRIP SUPPORT OVERVIEW RIBS BREAKDOWN CNC PROCESS VERTICAL MEMBERS AND ADDITIONAL SUPPORTS VERTICAL MEMBERS AND ADDITIONAL SUPPORTS: BREAKDOWN PROCESSING WOOD FABRICATION

Computational Design Seminar

Dynamic Partition Wall Inspiration Design Process – Iterations In terms of design, we aimed to design curvature, not just along the vertical faces of the panels, but along the horizontal planes as well to add more dimension to the structure. Our goal was to create curvature in both dimensions for a more dynamic structure, which … Read more

Ecological Intelligence 1. Trimester 2024/25

In our seminar with Michael Salka and Mariano Gomez Luque, we explored the meaning of ecology and the multifaceted challenges of sustainability, materiality and humanity’s relationship with the planet. Over eight weeks, we delved into two distinct but deeply connected approaches to build with ecological thinking and addressing climate change as well as envisioning a … Read more

VeloVerd La Verneda: Urban Synthesis

Incorporating the principles of Industry 4.0, our architectural project redefines urban living by seamlessly integrating sustainable design strategies with advanced manufacturing techniques. With a focus on promoting bicycle culture and health, our industry manufactures bikes. In this module, we synthesised the previous modules into a holistic design. The design principles from thermodynamics, exosystemic structures, metabolic … Read more

VeloVerd La Verneda: Ecosystemic Structures

Incorporating the principles of Industry 4.0, our architectural project redefines urban living by seamlessly integrating sustainable design strategies with advanced manufacturing techniques. With a focus on promoting bicycle culture and health, our industry manufactures bikes. In this module, we understood the different parts of the building, focusing on how their structures work and are interconnected. … Read more

Urban Synthesis| Resilient Envelopes | GAIA

GAIA Plot 1. About. Urban Synthesis | Resilient Envelopes This course explores the design and construction of modern and sustainable building envelopes. These envelopes must be strong yet adaptable, capable of being disassembled, transported, and reused with minimal energy consumption. They should also withstand various environmental elements like air, wind, sun, water, and temperature changes. … Read more

Zero Waste Project | Resilient Envelopes

This module focused on developing an envelope for the building, enhancing its functional as well as aesthetic qualities. The building envelope is pivotal in enhancing a structure’s functionality and performance. A well-designed envelope minimizes heat transfer, reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling. Effective insulation and air sealing maintain consistent indoor temperatures, ensuring occupants’ comfort … Read more

Urban Synthesis| Metabolic Systems: Energy| GAIA

GAIA Plot 1. About. Urban Synthesis | Metabolic Systems: Energy In this module, you’ll delve into the fundamentals of energy and power systems within buildings, exploring the various components involved. You’ll gain insight into user energy consumption patterns and have the opportunity to develop a personalized energy use case for your projects. A significant focus … Read more

Proximity Food: Resilient Envelopes

In these workshop, we’re diving deep into the world of resilient building envelopes, showcasing how contemporary design can intertwine with sustainability. Our project is a testament to this, blending innovative materials like corrugated hemp panels, ceramic pots for plant growth and rainwater filtration, wood for balcony structures, and compressed earth blocks for thermal mass. Through … Read more