The MSc In Computational Architecture is a design research course, aimed to expand pervasive media designers knowledge on a triaxial modality, namely simulation, and fabrication, both underpinned with theory. These three intertwined domains will be studied on the course:
The optional modules listed are those that are most likely to be available but they may be subject to change.
The module is designed for complete novices in computational design platforms as a Bootcamp-based module. Computing Complexity is a fast-paced introduction module to prepare for urban scale design exploration. The module focuses on coding and scripting to help the students' agile mindset between recursive and linear methodologies. In tandem, the students will investigate and understand the concept of complex systems as part of the History and Theory thread woven throughout the programme. The module is designed to be standalone for other ABE MSc programme elective courses and CPD students.
This module is about the sentient experiences and qualities of the city. That is those things that humans, animals or indeed any living matter can sense and have a response to.
The module is designed for complete novices in computational design platforms as one of 2 Bootcamp-based modules. Logic to Artefact is both an introduction and revision of computational design fundamentals. The Bootcamp is a fast-paced module assessed with a primer brief of a building systems scale exploration. The module focuses on computation for fabrication to help students use digital fabrication techniques and develop intelligent systems at the assembly detail scale. The module is designed to be a standalone module for MArch elective courses.
This module is set up to introduce students to the innovative and creative methods that computational design offers responsible architecture. Designers can find innovative solutions by codifying biological and mathematical data to generate a design, namely biomimicry. Generative design enables designers to reach optimal solutions that consider large data sets. Making good design decisions early on can have a significant impact later in the project. As architecture continues to integrate new digital technologies, generative design tools play a vital role in practice. These platforms generate optimal solutions by considering complex data concurrently, including structural design, environmental strategies, social cohesion, and well-being.
The module requires students to work collaboratively as a team simulating a competition setting. In response to an open design brief, the team develops a proposition for an architectural structure. The competition encourages a creative reconsideration of the nature of architectural structure and promotes experimentation with materials and fabrication techniques. One limiting parameter of the brief is that the structure must be buildable within an outlined timeframe and budget for the project. To this end, each team is required to provide a concisely written and illustrated report to explain their plan for the execution of their design.
This module requires all students to work as a group, take a previously established design proposal, and develop its construction detail through element fabrication and on to final assembly. The module's outcome is the group's completion of a full-size freestanding architectural structure, the construction and completion of which is the subject of a group assessment for the module. The size for this structure will be the order of a single storey in height. It is for a shelter that can act as a pavilion - providing flexible space for assembly and exhibition. The project encourages creative problem solving and reconsideration of the nature of architectural structures. It promotes experimentation with materials and fabrication techniques.
