.AA ROME VISITING SCHOOL

     Form as Unknown (X)

    Dates TBC

___Link to AA Website

Contents

The workshop allows students to develop research on computational parametric design, making links to pioneering Italian experiments from the past. In particular the debate focuses on the idea of “form as unknown” conceived by Roman engineer Sergio Musmeci. According to his design strategy, the form should not be superimposed, but deduced through the optimization of its conditions. The course aims to research and develop computational strategies which adapt morphology according to local site conditions and, more importantly, to social needs. The computational approach enables us to abandon the imposition of a prefixed form and instead embrace performance-driven designs. Lectures on current mainstream and academic research as well as digital fabrication prototyping are integrated into the workshop, which is divided into three parts:

1) Tooling

Initially the workshop introduces parametric modelling and design to the students. The software induction (to programmes Rhino and Grasshopper amongst others) builds the necessary skills for addressing the technical challenges of using analytical data – environmental and human behavioural patterns – to inform design strategies in form generation.

2) Material systems

The class develops computational investigation through experiments of material behaviours. The aim is to understand chosen structural strategies in nature and outline their rules. The research of an abstract machine forms the basis of the design concept.

All participants travelling from abroad are responsible for securing any visa required for entry to Italy, and are advised to contact their home embassy early. After payment of fees, the AA School can provide a letter confirming participation in the workshop. Applicants are advised to contact the AA as soon as possible in order to apply and confirm a place, as space is limited.

Fees

The AA Visiting School requires a fee of £695 per participant, which includes a £60 Visiting Student Membership, payable online. Fees do not include flights or accommodation, but accommodation options can be advised. Students need to bring their own laptops, digital equipment and modelmaking tools. Please ensure this equipment is covered by your own insurance as the AA takes no responsibility for items lost or stolen at the workshop.

Physical

Eligibility

The workshop is open to architecture, engineering and design students and professionals worldwide. No previous experience in computational design and digital fabrication is needed; the workshop will offer both introductory instruction for beginners and advanced instruction for experienced users.

Contacts

Programme Directors
Lorenzo Vianello
Arturo Tedeschi

Visiting School Director
Christopher Pierce

Visiting School Coordinator
Priji Balakrishnan

T +44 20 7887 4014
F +44 20 7414 0782

visitingschool@aaschool.ac.uk