Adaptive Architecture and Computation
The MSc Adaptive Architecture and Computation offers a unique perspective on the application of technology to the built environment. We see technology not only as a means to create emergent form, but as a means to create an architecture that adapts to its occupation; one in which design is embodied within our experience of place, and the components of design are transparently embedded within the environment; one in which society and space are combined as a unitary entity, brought together through a knowledge and understanding of computation as applied to our presence in the world.
A dancer interacts with digital agents that move on a projected background. A piece developed by
Chiron Mottram (MSc AAC tutor 2005-2008)
To achieve this synergy, we aim to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the practical skills required to create generative, emergent and responsive form, through exposure to real programming environments, alongside a solid grounding in analytic and synthetic techniques and the creation of physical systems engendering interaction and adaptation. From September 2009 a new set of taught modules will be introduced to provide a more cohesive experience for students, with a clearer focus on the skills to be learnt within each module.
The course team, drawn from the world-leading SPACE research group, comprises both architects and experts in artificial intelligence. Programming is taught through the Processing language, which was created to teach computation to designers with no prior experience of computing. Time is dedicated to studio sessions with experienced tutors who have a track record of research into architecture and computation.
After completing the course, many graduates go on to join leading architectural and engineering practices, either directly with design teams or with specialist modelling groups. In the past three years, MSc AAC graduates have joined Foster and Partners, Zaha Hadid Architects, KPF Associates, Aedas, Arup and Mott MacDonald. Alumni have also joined (or founded) cutting edge emerging digital design practices such as United Visual Artists or Moving Brands, and moved into academic research.
More about the MSc AAC
