Studio II_Anatomy of a System: RE_SHAPE

Introduction In a world where natural resources are increasingly scarce, the construction industry faces a crucial challenge: reducing material waste and maximizing the use of available resources. Wood, a traditionally used construction material, is at the center of this issue. Every year, millions of tons of wood are discarded or underutilized due to its irregular … Read more

Urbanism Around Landslides: A Remote Sensing Approach

The Landscape of Risk India has witnessed 3782 major landslides between 2015–2022.Regions like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Kerala, and the North-East are especially vulnerable. Landslides disrupt cities, block roads, damage homes — and in some cases, like Wayanad in 2024, result in loss of lives and millions in damages. The Research Question How can remote sensing … Read more

Hyper A – Facade Team

THE ESSENCE OF ENSO Ensō, the Zen circle, represents one of the most fundamental principles in Japanese aesthetics and philosophy. Traditionally drawn in a single, fluid brush stroke, it symbolizes: Complete Circle of Life)Main Unifying Theme: Like the Zen concept of ensō (the circle), the building embodies completeness through continuous cycles and perfect imperfection. Team … Read more

SecondMatter

SecondMatter challenges architecture’s extractive processes and wasteful material cycles by upcycling Construction Demolition Renovation Waste (CDRW) into structural and non-structural applications. It blends ramming, which compacts granular materials into high-strength forms, with jamming-inspired interlocking of irregular aggregates. Large concrete waste pieces form a reinforced core, wrapped in a rammed mix of fine brick and concrete … Read more

DESIGN FLEX- PHASE- II

Abstract Parametric design tools like Grasshopper empower architects to create adaptive and efficient spatial layouts, but their complexity presents a barrier for non-experts. This research proposes a community-driven design tool that leverages Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) and Large Language Models (LLMs) to learn from expert-authored Grasshopper scripts, enabling prompt-based parametric layout design. By encoding design … Read more

Collaborative Workflows: Hyper A – Facade

Collaborative Workflows and Techniques for Façade Design . We explored both internal and external collaboration strategies with all design teams at HYPER A. Our team focused on three key areas: adaptive façades, energy efficiency, and smart architectural systems. To guide our design process, we established clear performance metrics, including Daylight Factor, Panelization strategies, and Energy … Read more

Timber V4ult: Resilient Envelopes

Objective To develop resilient, adaptable, and sustainable building envelopes that integrate active and passive design strategies, utilizing advanced ecological materials and systems to optimize energy efficiency, recyclability, and environmental responsiveness throughout their lifecycle. Location Case Studies Wind & Sun Path Analysis Solar Radiation Diagram Envelope Layer : Roof Pergolas Design Intent : Our pergolas were … 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

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

Form follows Data

Introduction Facades are vital architectural elements, functioning as the interface between a building’s interior and exterior while reflecting broader design strategies. Vitruvius emphasized the concept of Venustas, the aesthetic appeal achieved through harmonious proportions and calculated symmetries, as central to the role of facades in conveying beauty and balance. In modern architecture, facades transcend their … Read more

Digital tools for Integrative Modelling – Hyper A Facade

The Facade Team Team Vision Group Topic Kinetic Component  Envelope Development Hyper Building A is a self-sustaining, energy-efficient project designed to seamlessly integrate into Japanese culture. The design follows the 15-minute walk theory, organizing the building into distinct neighborhoods to promote accessibility and community interaction. The vision for this project is centered around energy efficiency, … Read more

OptiBIPV

What & Why ? OptiBIPV is an app designed to enhance an integrated design approach for photovoltaic facades right from the early design stages. In today’s building design, balancing aesthetics with the growing demand for energy production is more important than ever. OptiBIPV enhances collaboration for a more sustainable environment, helping architects, facade designers, and … Read more

Island Pods | Floating Platforms for Coastal Extensions

Island Pods is an innovative application designed to create modular floating platform extensions for coastlines. Inspired by the Archipelago di Onco project, this tool enables municipalities and event organizers to design and customize floating spaces tailored to their unique needs. The prototype focuses on the Princess Islands in Istanbul, a region known for its diverse … Read more

City Brief App

CBDM 25 A configurable application that generates simple rectangular architectural mass while simultaneously providing regional economic and climate insights for a chosen country/city from the top 50 cities around the world. The tool allows users to adjust base dimensions, total building height, and per-floor height, then quickly see how costs, climate data, and massing possibilities … Read more

ReQualificaSal

Recalificación de Áreas Degradadas por la Industria de la Sal, con base en el Patrimonio Cultural y Ambiental, Cabo Frio – RJ, Brasil Introducción La sal es una materia prima de suma importancia para la humanidad, desde el principio el hombre utilizó esta fuente para sazonar y conservar los alimentos y su importancia la ha … Read more