Architectural competitions, whether it be within the context of a student project or a large architectural firm, require a certain rigor in data management, if they are to be completed successfully. Especially for projects dealing with complex geometry that require highly advanced modes of production, the digital work-flow is of significant importance. A centralized digital information model can help to ensure that the all-crucial information such as geometry, material use, part identification, and assembly coordination are available to all members of the team at all times.
Within this seminar, we will use an existing design proposal for a pedestrian bridge at the Architectural Association in London to develop such a digital information model. In order to do this, a student competition entry will be revisited and rationalized in a parametric environment. We will join the design team of the Emergent Technologies and Design Program in London in order to use this information model as a base for future development of the project.
The fabrication facilities at the University of Stuttgart as well as the ones available through the AA in London will be introduced and techniques to implement fabrication constraints directly into the information model will be taught. The seminar will consist of a small group of students (<10) that work together as 1 team. Together they will produce a prototype of a section of the bridge as a proof of concept. This prototype is on display in London as part of the AA End-Of-Year Exhibition from June 2010 to early August 2010.
The pedestrian bridge, which is going to be built in the AA inner courtyard, offeres many challenging opportunities for all involved members of the team. In general, the design of a bridge differs largely from that of an installation piece and therefore issues concerning Structural Viability, Materiality, Fabrication, Detailing & Design have to be addressed and integrated into one consistent project.
During the seminar, two workshops will take place: The first one-week workshop will be carried out in London at the AA together with the Emergent Technologies and Design students and teachers. Four weeks after our visit to London, the London Team will join us to participate in a second "hands-on" workshop at our facilities in Stuttgart. Both workshops are accompanied by specialists from Buro Happold & Design2Production.
Workshop I - AA Workshop
Workshop II - ICD Workshop
Project 1
AA Exhibition