This project was developed as part of the Collaborative Workflows course, which ran in parallel to our main Studio project. In the Studio, we worked in teams to design a Hyper Building—a complex, multi-neighborhood architectural system. As the Structural Team, our responsibility was to design and coordinate the structural system supporting the building. The Collaborative … Read more
This Project explores how reflective, vernacular materials—such as ceramics—can be utilized in construction to manage infrared radiation and influence microclimates. By reflecting rather than absorbing heat, these materials contribute to passive cooling, reducing urban heat island effects and enhancing thermal comfort. We analyze the physical properties of ceramics, their historical applications in traditional architecture, and … Read more
Analog End Effector Explorations Mechanical End Effector Explorations Final Robotic Jig Design | Facade Iterations
For this term experiments and tests were conducted for the evaluation markers of the biocomposite of PLA with different charges of Cacau Seed Shell and the Fabrication performances of each biocomposite charges. Tests on mechanical perfomances such as Tensile Strenght, Flexural Stress and Izod Impact were conducted. Compostability tests were also setup in the range … Read more
Introduction Welcome to an exploration of Hyperbuilding B’s structural innovations, brought to life by our dedicated structural team—Erva, Renuka, and Ernesto. Our journey was guided by Japanese design philosophies, advanced structural strategies, and meticulous collaboration with the design teams. This blog delves into our approach, workflow, and key performance metrics that shaped the Hyperbuilding B’s … Read more
In pick-and-place robotics, a robotic arm must move from a start position to a target location (e.g., to pick or place an object) while safely navigating around obstacles. These obstacles may vary in size, severity, or risk — requiring the robot to adapt its path based on the workspace condition. This project simulates the core … Read more
Project Statement For our Collaborative assignment, we created a Slackbot that sends teams weekly or daily updates on their metric health and an abbreviated summary of the project. Project Context The Data Team was responsible for the management of data flow and organization throughout the process, ensuring other teams could navigate through the dashboard and … Read more
PROJECT OVERVIEW We applied 3D space syntax to distribute functions within each neighborhood based on distance and spatial requirements. Using Voronoi-based massing in collaboration with the Structure Team and macro adjacency matrices, we introduced eight neighborhoods within a 1km² building, creating a 24/7 active “city within a city.” These neighborhoods were refined with the Facade … Read more
Algorithm Aided Design Design Concept Urban density Over the centuries, Tokyo has evolved into a sprawling megacity, blending its historical roots with modern advancements to address the challenges of space and density. Clusterization The 15-minute city is an urban planning concept that aims to create neighborhoods where most daily needs are within a 15-minute walk … Read more
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
Our BIMSC studio project centers on designing a ‘hyperbuilding’ in Tokyo’s Minato Ward—a self-sustaining development that integrates closed-loop ecological systems like on-site food production, photovoltaic energy generation, and industrial modules. The building includes mixed-use zones for amenities, services, and commerce, all anchored by a transit hub built into a podium above Shinagawa Station, supporting the … Read more
This thesis explores the use of generative AI to transform 2D image prompts into fabricatable 3D pavilion designs using timber sheet-based CNC milling. By developing a workflow from AI-driven image generation to mesh segmentation and fabrication detailing, the research aims to bridge the gap between conceptual design and physical realization. The outcome is a phygital … Read more
Redefining BIM Boundaries: Creativity and Flexibility in Conceptual Design In the latest episode of the MaCAD BIMSC Theory Podcast Series, part of the BIM and Smart Construction module at the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC), host Aleyna Kırcalı sat down with Dr. Tahir Akkoyunlu, an esteemed BIM expert and academic, to discuss the … Read more
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
