After successful completion of the course, students are able to:

• Generate architecture informed and inspired by technology

• Conduct structured research on sensing technology and mechatronics applicable to the architectural solutions

• Demonstrate the capability for acquiring up-to-date information on the latest technology from the field

• Demonstrate the capability to adequately use resources, and refer the report to them

• Effectively communicate information from other domains such as computer science or environmental science which are related to architecture

• After guidance, demonstrate proficiency in generating and delivering expert research reports.

• Synthesize complex information into a design intent

• Translate speculative ideas into a built form

• Design adaptive spaces equipped with sensor-actuator technologies

• Communicate advanced architectural ideas

• Make digital models, architectural drawings and visual representations of dynamic spaces

Architecture has evolved over the past decades and today it unites a number of specific disciplines. It can no longer be imagined without the use of computer technologies, sustainable principles and environmental science. Architects need knowledge about new technologies in order to create innovative architectural solutions that follow the development of other areas.

The interactive architecture course explores how architecture can be informed and inspired by technology. The course entails architectural design that integrates mechatronic systems (sensors, controllers and actuators) into the built environment. Students will learn novel methods for data acquisition, data analysis and visualization that inform the design process. Furthermore, the seminar will deliver knowledge on automated procedures that generate spatial change - adaptive architecture (using sensor/actuator technologies). Students will obtain knowledge of evidence-based design principles, algorithmic thinking in architecture and techniques for visualizing the data gathered through state-of-the-art technology. In addition to visually based techniques commonly used by architects, the course focuses on the potential of information invisible to the human eye (data acquired by sensors) and decision-making procedures (algorithms) that support architectural design.

The seminar will be organized around the course's main topics - Interactive Architecture, Evidence-based design, Mechatronics and Buildings, Sensors in Architecture, Algorithmic Thinking and Data in Design.

The seminar consists of 30-minute lectures, precedent analysis and design tasks. Six 30-minute lectures are dedicated to creating the basis for research and design, following the other components of the course and aligning with the student's workflow. The precedent analysis is inspired by contemporary literature and architectural solutions directly or indirectly related to interactive architecture. Students will be assigned book chapters, research articles and projects to analyze aspects of interactive architecture. The design assignment consists of the practical application of the knowledge acquired during the lectures and precedents analysis to the student's existing project.

This course, supported by TU Vienna departments, prioritizes the needs of all students, including those with disabilities and mental health issues, by providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment through tailored accommodations and attention to mental well-being. If  you think your concern is not addressed, please contact us.

Information for students:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1spp7bv841f0U3PyuzWLeMtbSXkG2s38A/view?usp=sharing

The aim of this seminar is to generate knowledge presented through algorithms, written material, and visualization of ideas.

Deliverables include diagrams, drawings, notes and images in the form of two reports - intermediate (Report 1) and final (Report 2). Also, the deliverables of this seminar will be presentations corresponding to the reports.