Nature as Design Archive and Typology

Multispecies design as we know it is designing human dominated spaces to be occupied by more species than just humans in an effort to mitigate the biodiversity losses due to human development and territorial expansion. However, multispecies design as it is often practiced, through building facade systems and interventions in the built landscape, can have … Read more

Embracing Ecological Intelligence: Reconciling Anthropocentrism and Ecological Imperatives in Design

The exigency of the Anthropocene compels a fundamental reassessment of design paradigms. Traditional anthropocentric approaches, which prioritize human needs often to the detriment of ecological integrity, have precipitated a confluence of environmental crises. This discourse will explore the concept of Ecological Intelligence, a framework that necessitates a departure from human-centered design, advocating for a holistic … Read more

Ecological Intelligence II – Biomaterials

Biomaterial is a concept that is already late to be implemented. In the article “Principles of biological design as a model for biodesign and biofabrication in architecture,” the ideas around the use of biomaterials in the construction sector are carefully explored and evaluated. It is stated that they are a great replacement for conventional standardized … Read more

Eco-Intelligence: Vernacular Architecture

For this exercise, I found vernacular architecture to be the most interesting topic to dive further into. This predominantly came from the concept that whatever other newer forms of design are trying to achieve, vernacular architecture did it first, and sometimes better. Whether it be bio-design, multi-species design, etc., vernacular architecture always holds the characteristics … Read more

DECODING URBAN MOBILITY

ABSTRACT; Decoding Urban Mobility: This project evaluates the impact of AI-driven traffic management versus conventional fixed-timing methods on urban congestion. It analyzes real-time and historical data—including traffic patterns, weather, demographics, and incident reports—from cities like London, Barcelona, and Los Angeles and compares machine learning models (e.g., LSTM, GRU, XGBoost) with traditional techniques. The study identifies … Read more

Redefining BIM Boundaries: Creativity and Flexibility in Conceptual Design with Dr. Tahir Akkoyunlu

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

Sticks & Stones

As businesses evolve in the 21st century, success is no longer measured by profit alone. Today, organizations are expected to create meaningful value for people, the planet, and the broader economy. The Sustainable Business Canvas is a strategic tool that helps businesses embed sustainability at the core of their operations by assessing not just economic … Read more

Computational Sustainability at NEXT

Introduction Sustainability is no longer optional in architecture, yet translating ecological principles into measurable, data-driven design remains a challenge. NEXT’s use of computational tools demonstrates how these workflows can enhance energy efficiency, resource optimization, and ecological integration, but widespread adoption requires overcoming barriers. This research will explore how NEXT Architects applies digital tools to improve … Read more

HBIM and AI, a perspective on new technologies for Heritage architecture

Brief Heritage Building Information Modeling (HBIM) is a process for managing and conserving historical structures. Despite its potential and the European Directive 2014/24/EU, HBIM remains underutilized due to complex processes. AI-based technology can streamline HBIM processes at reduced costs, making heritage conservation more feasible. Technologies like LIDAR, TLS, photogrammetry (including UAVs), and SLAM, initially tested … Read more

RE_SHAPE

Digital  Transformation  of  Discarded  Logs  for  Structural  and  Design  Applications Re_Shape is a design and innovation project that addresses a major blind spot in the forestry industry: the waste of tree trunks that are curved, bifurcated, or otherwise irregular and therefore excluded from traditional processing systems. These logs are typically downgraded into low-value products like … Read more

The Power of a good BIM Execution Plan

Abstract The BIM scope of a project still has many ambiguities, challenges, and known difficulties related to internal and external politics and other human factors. Project stakeholders usually have overlapping but in most cases different interests, e.g. tendering consultants and contractors want clearer definitions to be able to minimize their risk when submitting an offer, … 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

Design Automation for Architectural Design in Small Steps

BRIEF PROBLEM: Architectural design is a complex process that often involves repetitive tasks, human errors, and inefficiencies that can slow down workflows. While Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools like Autodesk Revit have significantly improved design and documentation processes, the absence of structured automation continues to limit optimization, particularly for architectural design firms. Many firms struggle … 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