Tutors: Richard Difford (module leader), Roberto Botazzi, Miriam Dall’Igna, Michael Kloihofer, Eva Magnisali & Elite Sher
Undertaken in the first semester of the first year on the MArch, Digital Design is a key component of the Architectural Reflections module, providing the opportunity to learn valuable computer skills and to reflect critically on the use of digital media in architecture. The programme offers a choice of five different groups each with a different focus and set of interests. The tutors for these groups are drawn from both practice and academia, providing critical reflexion on the role of digital technology in architecture along with practical experience and technical expertise. Each group combines technical instruction with related theory and precedents. In this way everyone gets a chance to learn something new and build on their existing knowledge and experience.
The five groups this year were as follows:
Group A: Xpanded Realities
Elite Sher
Utilising the VR facilities now available as part of the university’s new XR Lab, this group provides an introduction to the use of games engines, Virtual Reality headsets and Augmented Reality in architecture.
Group B: Digital Craft
Michael Kloihofer
Employing contemporary digital fabrication tools, this group looks at adapting traditional forms of making to the digital age.
Group C: Computational Design
Miriam Dall’Igna
Drawing on contemporary scripting and paramedic modelling techniques, this group explores the potential for geometrically driven and environmentally responsive computational design.
Group D: Mapping Complex Data
Roberto Bottazzi
Working through both 2D graphics and 3D computer modelling, this group looks at the ways in which digital media can be used to reconstruct a link between data and meaning.
Group E: Data-Driven Robots
Eva Magnisali
This group explores the use of the Fabrication Lab’s industrial robots both in the design process and in the production of data-driven components.