Computational Design Seminar

Sinuous Wood Abstract: This project explores the computational design of a parametric facade using Grasshopper. The design features horizontally arrayed wooden panels, parametrically repeated across segmented floors. Each panel extrudes outward at varying depths, creating dynamic curves that give the facade a fluid, organic aesthetic. These controls enable seamless adjustments to panel dimensions, extrusion patterns, … Read more

The Alternating Matchbox

The best Facade This modular workflow integrates design, structure, and function Concept Sketches Logic and References Facade Kit of Parts Grasshopper Script Main Facade Component:The process starts by extracting the facade face from the block. Curves are shaped with graph mappers, creating a bottom opening by shifting a curve in the z-direction. Height adjustments and alternating patterns … Read more

Urchin Pavilion

Urchin Pavilion is located at Sant Pere plaza in Barcelona. Between the trees and the statue,  the empty space is used for the pavilion. Entrance points of the pavilion are determined based on the pathways, location of the center dot is the statue at the plaza. Inspirations Sea Urchin Pavilion : Louis Vuitton Pop-Up Analysis … Read more

Mimosa Panels

Mimosa Panel is an innovative architectural solution that combines biomimicry, sustainability, and responsive design. Inspired by the movement of the Mimosa pudica plant, commonly known as the “touch-me-not,” the panel features dynamic flaps that autonomously open and close in response to the sun’s movement. This behavior mimics the plant’s natural folding mechanism, creating a visually … Read more

Parametric Ribbon-scape

Reference: Façade of Messe Basel New Hall, Basel, SwitzerlandArchitect: Herzog & de MeuronYear: 2013 Photo © Messe Basel Description of the façade :The façade of the building is composed of a series of ribbons that unfold based on their proximity to attractors. Façade construction logic:Step 1: Extract the surface of the block façade.Step 2: Generate … Read more

ROBOTIC FABRICATION SEMINAR

The environmental impact of the construction industry is a pressing concern. As architects, it’s essential that we shift from a linear model of consumption and production to a circular economy. In recent years, there has been notable progress in upcycling various construction materials and replacing high-emission materials like concrete with more sustainable alternatives, such as … Read more

Irregular Modularity

How can we use irregular elements of reclaimed offcut-timber to  challenge the methodology of using planar, Interlocking and stacking techniques which can then be utilized in the design of forms ? Data CollectionThis first starts with a collection of materials and the creation of a database. This database serves as a resource for the planning … Read more

Understanding Planetary Urbanization and Capitalism

“capitalism as a mode of production has necessarily targeted the breaking down of spatial barriers and the acceleration of turnover time as fundamental to its agenda of relentless capital accumulation” (David Harvey.) 01. The Evolution of Urban Reading Urbanization, much like the transition from print to digital media, reflects evolving modes of engagement. The shift … Read more

Urban Wind Flow Modeling with PINNs

Overview PaperLink WIP – This study specifically explores Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to analyze pedestrian wind comfort. It aims to integrate these neural network models into a web application using Three.js and other tools. By utilizing data from OpenWeatherMap, and OpenStreetMap, the project aims to support real-time simulations and visualizations … Read more

BIO-ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING / MRAC Workshop 1.1

Cork-based 3d printing – Topological Optimisation Design Introduction    The seminar invites students to explore new materials, additive processes and new fields of applications through robotic 3d printing taking advantage of the potential of the 6-axes of the robotic arm. Context   Recently we have clearly observed immense changes in architectural design development. Architecture has been influenced … Read more

Climate Sensitive Facade Intervention for Urban Heat Island Mitigation

Research Questions: Can climate sensitive facade interventions reduce the intensity of the Urban Heat Island effect within urban blocks in arid climates?“ Research Goal: The goal is to propose simplified, climate-sensitive facade interventions in highly urbanized cities that reduce energy loads by mitigating Urban Heat Island (UHI) effects, while complying with climate-resilient regulations. These interventions … Read more

Robotic Strategies in Construction

Computational Design for Digital and Robotic Fabrication Introduction The Software I module served as our introduction to understanding how designs produced on the computer translate into fabrication strategies that can be used by a robotic arms in various ways. The seminar was broken up into four exercises, each exercise involved a specific robotic operation and … Read more

Techne W3: Structure

TECHNE: W3 – STRUCTURE workshop asks students to examine the structural behaviors inherent in 3D printing with clay and earth. Our goal for this week’s workshop was to print the tallest single and double surface structure that will be assessed against performance metrics such as toolpath length, print volume, print time, weight, collapse height, and … Read more

Techne W2: Machine

The Techne 02 machine workshop, is meant to introduced students and part of the research team into the different print methodologies of 3D clay printers. Part of the workshop explores different nozzle sizes, seam strategies, and even geometries, that can be created with a simple cylinder. The purpose is to explore height, and geometrical difference … Read more

Techne W6: Volume

In Valdaurra Labs, the design of 3D-printed earth walls needs to incorporate strategic grid/period deformations to optimize for natural light and ventilation. By adjusting the curvature and openings in these periods and grids, the structure allows for more sunlight to penetrate while improving airflow and maintaing the building cool. This strategic deformation allows for play … Read more