Studio I_Anatomy of a Machine: Shape

INTRO As part of the “Anatomy of a Machine – Shape” course, we engaged in an exercise that explores the possibilities of robotic material manipulation through various tools and techniques. Our objective was to research and experiment with sustainable, accessible, and locally available materials, applying scientific and creative principles to produce unique prototypes. This process … Read more

Studio I_Anatomy of a Machine: Spill _ FLOWPRESS

Introduction This seminar invites students to explore making custom made spillers controlled by Arduino and a 6-axes robotic arm in order to paint spills on canvas with black acrylic paint. Context   Recently we have clearly observed immense changes in production, prototyping, and innovation that has been influenced by open source software, firmware and hardware. Human … Read more

Beam of Fragments

Structural Design Essentials Workshop Introduction The primary objective of the workshop was to explore innovative ideas in structural engineering by experimenting with materials and their compositions to create components. Specifically, the aim was to engineer a structural beam designed for integration into the case study structure, the Aravena Building, and to evaluate its structural strength … Read more

TERRANOVA: Organic Waste to Ecological Wealth

Located in the quiet community of Sant Adria De Besos lies the Besos Power Station. This waste to energy power plant is responsible for providing power to over 10 municipalities of Spain and takes care of nearly half of the waste that comes into Barcelona. While this factory proves to be highly effective, several negative … Read more

Collaborative Design Studio – Kindergarten

The Site We worked with the Kindergarten at Colegi Mare de Déu dels Angels in La Sagrera neighborhood Barcelona. This historic school has educated generations of students over nearly the past one hundred years, this year the school decided to bring in IAAC to develop playground structures to improve the exposed brick terraces where the … Read more

BIOGENESIS

TRANSFORMING WASTE INTO SUSTAINABLE MATERIAL RESOURCES The goal is to convert various types of waste into sustainable resources, establishing a circular economy that enhances environmental benefits by repurposing waste, promoting renewable energy, and encouraging innovation in bioproducts. This site, like many others around the world, holds the memories of a different time. What happens when … Read more

Directional Strength: Glulam Components in Force-Responsive Design

This research explores the optimization of glulam in architectural design by aligning material grading and grain orientation with force trajectories. Combining glulam offcuts and higher-grade timber, the study minimizes waste while maximizing structural efficiency. Computational workflows and generative algorithms are used to design force-aligned components for scalable applications. Prototypes demonstrate enhanced performance and sustainability, offering … Read more

Optoppen (City above the city )

AIM The housing crisis in Spain stems from rising prices, stagnant construction, and growing demand, leaving many unable to afford housing, highlighting the need for urgent, sustainable solutions. Spain Time line of the Housing crisis Long Term trend Housing crisis AFFORDABLE HOUSING by 2035 Material comparison Homeless people Data Site documentation Typology – I Joint … Read more

Robotic Craft Interaction

An Intersectional Investigation Robotics is the field of study focused on the research and application of robotic systems. This definition, however, doesn’t provide much insight. So, what is a robot? Robots are machines that can operate autonomously or through programmed input to perform specific tasks, often replacing human effort. These tasks are typically complex and … Read more

BUSINESS INNOVATION

Introduction The global housing crisis highlights the urgent need for affordable, sustainable, and inclusive housing solutions worldwide, Rapid urbanization, rising costs, and unequal access to resources have left millions without adequate housing. A lack of affordable housing options is deepening social inequality in cities across the globe. How Global Housing prices have changed since 2010 … Read more

FLOWPRESS – Creating Patterns with Parameters

Introduction This seminar invites students to explore making custom made spillers controlled by Arduino and a 6-axes robotic arm in order to paint spills on canvas with black acrylic paint. Context   Recently we have clearly observed immense changes in production, prototyping, and innovation that has been influenced by open source software, firmware and hardware. Human … Read more

WAFFLE – DIGITAL FABRICATION

This term, we explored three Digital fabrication techniques: CNC Milling, Laser Cutting, and 3D Printing. Our objective was to create A Cabin Integrating and investigating the characteristics of each technique. Concept The waffle cabin, designed for future human use, is tailored for different terrains, including beach, desert, forest, and plain regions. The primary structure of … Read more

ELEVURA

DIGITAL FABRICATION 3D Printing | CNC Milling | Laser Cutting 3D PRINTING As we embarked on this three-week journey of digital fabrication, we began with 3D printing in the first week. Our goal was to create something that could be integrated with our other techniques in the weeks to come. To maintain flexibility and openness … Read more

Digital Fabrication – The Spine

Throughout this class, we explored three key fabrication techniques: Laser Cutting, 3D Printing, and CNC Milling. For each method, we were challenged to develop and prototype digital fabrication solutions for a Digitally Crafted Cabin project. For laser cutting, we used a slicing technique with acrylic. Inspired by organic shapes like spines and bones, we aimed … Read more

Echo Cabin

Our cabin project is a public space for relaxation and meditation, constructed in three parts. The CNC-milled topographic base serves as a parametric bench, designed to mimic natural terrain and provide a comfortable, seamless seating experience that integrates with the surroundings. This precision-milled base offers ergonomic curves and a natural feel. Above, a laser-cut roof … Read more

ArtNest

ArtNest stands as a versatile pavilion, conceived to serve as a dynamic exhibition space for a variety of art installations. Purposefully crafted to blend functionality with aesthetic allure, ArtNest redefines the pavilion typology by providing a flexible framework that adapts to diverse artistic needs. The architecture of ArtNest illustrates the compelling synergy between traditional design principles … Read more

Tessellate – The Cabin

Design & Concept For our project titled “A Cabin for the Future”, we focused on designing an innovative roof structure utilizing  laser cutting technology. We aimed to challenge ourselves by opting for a curved roof created through the technique of ‘folding’ an 8mm polypropylene sheet.  This approach allowed us to explore the structural potential of … Read more

Rotating Ridge

DIGITAL FABRICATION 3D Printing | CNC Milling | Laser Cutting “Rotating Ridge” is an innovative facade module designed for a compact cabin, exploring the integration of three key digital fabrication techniques—3D printing to CNC milling and laser cutting. This design is trying to establish responsive shading system, structural framework and an visually harmonized façade. The … Read more

WARDED

The project Warded explores the concept of a “cabin of the future.” When considering future projections, it is difficult to estimate the exact needs and conditions; therefore, Warded is designed for flexibility. For its canopy structure, a traditional tile roof-like pattern is reimagined and interwoven further, like fabric, produced through laser cutting. A fractal tree, … Read more

CLING

The Concept when tasked with designing a cabin, we envisioned elegant, simple forms that would stand in contrast to the complex, organic shapes of nature. as we considered the landscape it would inhabit, we realized that this cabin wouldn’t just sit on the land—it would CLING to it, embracing the terrain in a dynamic and … Read more

FABRIC-ATION

3D PRINTING REFERENCES Inspired by the interplay of flexibility and precision , this concept captures the merging of fluid fabric forms with the structured intricacies of 3d printing and laser cutting . By layering printed patterns onto pliable textiles , this project explores the seamless integration of hard and soft elements , creating a form … Read more