What is “the proper degree of control” to be applied to a living tree to produce a desired geometry? Can this be standardized and made into a replicable workflow? Which current standard architectural elements can be replaced by this system? What are the implications for the current timber construction industry?
Abstract In response to urgent carbon mitigation challenges and biodiversity loss, a paradigm shift toward manufacturing symbiosis and circular bio-economy is crucial for ecologically sensitive design in urban ecosystems. This study explores the transformative potential of a 3D-printed urban Bionook, incorporating layers of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) with a natural-locally sourced soil admixture, to enhance strength, … Read more
3D Print Affordable Pocket Neighborhood ICON Initiative 99 Phase One Honorable Mention in the Student Category Problematic Statement In today’s urban landscape, digital nomads, engaged professionals, and couples face a growing challenge in securing affordable housing that aligns with their dynamic lifestyles. As the demand for affordable housing intensifies, the conventional housing market often falls … Read more
The focus of the project is to develop a new school for the city of Manchester. Much of the recent construction boom in the city has focused on high-cost luxury accommodation, leaving a gap in the provision of essential community amenities. Our proposal aims to address social concern by advocating for the establishment of a … Read more
The Makoko settlement in Lagos, Nigeria is a community that evolved from a fishing village and faces issues of inequality, housing shortages, informal settlements, gentrification, and inadequate infrastructure. The effects of climate change are likely to exacerbate these challenges, with more frequent natural disasters and rising sea levels affecting already vulnerable communities. Creating more equitable … Read more
The project addresses socio-economic and environmental challenges that are faced in Marina del Pratt’s fast developing industrial area. It is a multifunctional facility, combining a climate shelter and community center, which aims to enhance local life.Recycled materials from the nearby Ecopark de Barcelona promote sustainability and will raise awareness through workshops to the enviromental challenges … Read more
Introduction In our project, we analyze a timber gridshell characterized by the use of doubly curved laminated timber beams. Inspired by the design of the Haesley Nine Bridges Clubhouse, we have integrated advanced computational and optimization methods such as form-finding, structural analysis, and multi-objective optimization. Our aim is to achieve a harmonious balance between the … Read more
Architectural Concept Located in the northern part of Italy in Trento, famous for timber construction, our site is perched atop a cliff at the city’s highest point. We initiated our project by focusing on tree construction, leveraging the terrain to our advantage. Structural Design Explorations In our quest for the optimal structural form, we explored … Read more
In the process of creating this blog post dedicated to defining a Biocity, I played a crucial role in conducting comprehensive research and contributing to the compilation of a specialized dictionary. As part of a collaborative effort involving students from the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC), and under the guidance of mentors Honorata … Read more
Introduction The site we are investigating is an abandoned Railway Network Factory and is located at the next to Makkasan Airport Link Station in Bangkok, Thailand. Initited as part of studio, we are looking at utilising a timber lattice structure to host programmes (i.e open market, civic gathering area) within the spaces as a cultural … Read more
In the dynamic field of structural design, efficiency has emerged as a central theme driving innovative solutions. Our recent venture in the structural design and optimization seminar delves into the intriguing concept of minimal surfaces applied to timber gridshell structures. But what exactly do we mean by minimal surfaces? Defined as shapes that require the … Read more
From historical times, dendriforms have been used as architectural inspiration earlier they were just used for bio replication ( i.e just for aesthetics ) but soon they were used as a prototype of biomimicry. Our study was based on one of such examples – the World of Volvo ( Image 1) where the biomechanics principles … Read more
This project repurposes live-edge wood waste for shingle facade elements, enabling diverse spatial configurations. The goal is a flexible system accommodating varied thickness, length, and geometry of live-edge wood waste. Advanced robotic fabrication and scanning ensure adaptability in design. The focus is on an easily constructed, flexible system utilizing scanning to match live-edge wood, resulting … Read more
Our project is an artisan market within a cultural centre in Srinagar, India. In our initial analysis of hygroscopic timber, we identified key factors influencing its behaviour. The bilayer structure, consisting of an active and a passive layer, allows panels to deform in response to moisture content changes. We also found a third locking layer … Read more
The Dynamic Pavilion This is a proposal for a pavilion at Plaça de Universitat, inspired by the fluid movements and self-expression found in dance. This pavilion is designed to be a dynamic and adaptable environment tailored for peaceful protests that regularly take place in the plaza. With an open stage as its centerpiece, the Pavilion … Read more
Stack Lamination: Exploring the Intersection of Subtractive and Additive Manufacturing Brief: This workshop was conceived with the aim of familiarizing participants with the procedural intricacies of Stack Lamination milling, employing an Industrial KUKA robot arm. The methodology encompassed the integration of both digital and conventional fabrication approaches. We engaged in practical applications of 3-axis CNC … Read more
Exploring the Intersection of Subtractive and Additive Manufacturing In the pursuit of challenging manufacturing norms and pushing the boundaries of creativity, our team delved into the intricate world of stack lamination during the recent workshop. Focused on creating functional and visually stunning furniture pieces for a potential cafeteria in Barcelona, our journey unfolded through three … Read more
MASTER IN ADVANCED ARCHITECTURE ROBOTIC WOODCRAFT FACULTY: Alexandre Dubor, Marielena Papandreou, Huanyu Li STUDENT: Praneeth Aashwinay Basavraju, Anish Hatekar, Bora Cobanoglu, Sunny Manish Chopda
MASTER IN ADVANCED ARCHITECTURE ROBOTIC WOODCRAFT FACULTY: Alexandre Dubor, Marielena Papandreou, Huanyu Li STUDENT: Snehal Pare, Sbusiso Bhembe, Natnaree Wichieansin, Shrey Kapur, Hritik Thumar
During this one week workshop we explored the combination of stack lamination and 5 axis robotic milling for the speculative production of furniture for the new IAAC cafe. As a group we conceptualized and developed 3 items of furniture that could be produced using stack lamination. Each design was rationalized to make use of a … Read more
Deconstruction involves the systematic dismantling of buildings to recover valuable materials such as wood, metal, glass, and concrete. This approach prioritizes the preservation of materials for reuse, recycling, or upcycling, diverting a substantial amount of waste from landfills. The extracted materials form the basis of material banks, which act as repositories for salvaged construction elements. … Read more
This term, the exploration of three fabrication techniques—Laser Cutting, 3D Printing, and CNC Milling—led to the creation of three vertical facade prototypes. Drawing inspiration from organic movements and waves, our laser-cut design explores the interlocking techniques with Polypropylene and acrylic.The 3D printed geometry also explores the interlocking, this time as a mobility tool, creating a … Read more
Laser Cutting – Pulsing Bloom Inspired by the dynamic movement of flower petals as they bloom, the panel would be part of a kinetic facade that mimics nature and interacts with its environment. Technical Drawings Production and Material Data Final Outcome Visualization as a Facade Element 3D Printing – Gyroid as a Vertical Element Concept … Read more
Burning Man, 2018 (Nevada – USA) Temple Galaxia was a pavillion made especially to be part of the Burning Man Festival, an arts, music and culture festival, that happens at the Nevada’s desert, in the United States. The wood structure was intended to be the main gathering space of the festival, where people could go … Read more
