Biomimetic Design / Bio-Integrated Design, Research-Based Design, Computational Design, Architectural Design, Industrial Design, Form, Geometry, Nature, Life Sciences, Artistic Installations, Music Production, Films, Books, Creative Direction, Travelling, Any creative endeavor
CONTENTS
FLEX
DAGUAO HANGING GARDENS
AMPHIBIANSCAPE
VALLE ESCONDIDO
In its 18th year, DLAB 2023 explores the themes of generative design, material computation, and large-scale fabrication and assembly technologies. The task is the design and production of a 1:1 scale structure in the outdoor area of AA London. This will be investigated by focusing on a combination of structural, morphological, and contextual factors which the design intervention was expected to respond in order to differentiate its material and geometrical organization.
The FLEX project emerged from a vision to merge the increasing interest in sustainable natural materials with the innovative potential of robotic fabrication. Rattan reeds, being biodegradable and renewable, were identified as a promising material for exploring sustainable construction possibilities. Robotic fabrication, with its precision and capability, especially in bending and bundling, enabled more precise and inventive approaches.
The project aimed to discover new ways to achieve architectural form and structural stability by combining the natural qualities of
Type Location
Year
Team
Role
Research, Design-Build London 2023
DLAB 2023
Participant
materials with advanced robotic techniques. Rattan’s flexibility, in particular, allowed for experimentation with "active bending," resulting in unique structural and aesthetic outcomes that leveraged both the material's inherent properties and robotic precision.
Simulation methods were central to our design approach, particularly active bending simulations of bundled rattan canes of varying lengths and quantities. This helped us to assess the rattan’s resistance to bending and what structural effects this behaviour produced. Concurrently, we performed load testing on the material to validate that the digital simulations aligned with real-world behavior, allowing us to refine simulation parameters for greater accuracy.
In addition, we conducted in-depth analysis to understand the balance between structural performance and form using “Finite Element Analysis”, which was crucial for the form-finding process. FEA enabled us to evaluate stress and load distribution in specific parts of the design, providing valuable insights that informed our design decisions.
Rattan reeds offer unique advantages over traditional materials: they are sustainably renewable, naturally biodegradable, and have a low carbon footprint due to their minimal energy needs in production and transport. Additionally, their flexibility and lightness allow for creative, innovative approaches in construction and design.
E = 8 - 12 GPa
Single Bundle
E = 21 - 48 GPa
E = 30 - 52 GPa
Additional sinlge bundled rings aids in retaining the overall form.
Once the ring modules are assembled, they are put aside for later use for the total assembly.
1. The module is positioned at a flat surface.
2. Each module is composed of 6 bundled rods tied together at specific anchor points to achieve the final form by the act of bending the rods.
1. Each opposing end of the module is bent in an upward/downward motion
1. Each opposing end of the module is pushed inward to meet with additional rings providing extra support for "fixing" the overall form.
1. The resulted modules is an actively bent structure.
Bundles of three
B1 A1
C1
B3
C1
C1
B1
B3
Bundled, Twisted, Bended Rattan Reeds
The FLEX project also offers inspiration for larger-scale construction in several important ways. Material innovation was one of the project’s main focuses; by utilizing sustainable materials such as rattan reeds, we achieved structural and aesthetic outcomes comparable to those of conventional materials.
In addition, FLEX demonstrates the integration of advanced technology with renewable materials. The successful integration of robotic fabrication and digital simulation methods with natural materials reveals new ways of combining emerging technological tools with natural materials.
Lastly, FLEX exemplifies that sustainability and aesthetics can coexist. The project shows that it is possible to create innovative and visually appealing structures that also minimize environmental impact.
In these ways, the FLEX project provides a forward-looking approach to material selection, design methodology, production techniques, and sustainability. Its unique attributes offer a model for crafting large-scale structures that are as environmentally responsible as they are visually inspiring.
Photos: Samanta Martinez
HANGING GARDENS
This project focused on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in architectural design, following a structured workflow that connected conceptual design, parametric modeling, and detailed rendering. The process aimed to provide practical insights into integrating AI technologies into different stages of the design process.
The workflow began with AI Concept Generation using Midjourney, where participants explored methods for generating 2D visual concepts. This phase involved learning to craft prompts, iterate on designs, and refine outputs to develop architectural ideas using AI-generated imagery.
The next step involved translating these 2D concepts into detailed 3D models through Parametric Design using Rhino/Grasshopper. This phase focused on creating algorithmic models, applying parametric tools, and adapting designs to meet spatial and functional requirements.
Type Location Year Conceptual, Personal San Juan, Puerto Rico 2023
For Detail Development and Rendering, participants used LookX to refine their models, apply materials, and produce visualizations. This phase emphasized techniques for detailing, lighting, and rendering to create realistic presentations of the designs.
The process also included post-processing techniques to enhance visuals using software like Photoshop. Participants explored productivity strategies and resources to streamline workflows and effectively apply AI tools in architectural practice.
The project introduced participants to a complete AI-driven architectural workflow, demonstrating its applications across different design phases. It aimed to provide a foundation for using AI technologies to complement traditional design methods in professional settings.
prompt repeating interweaved circular cantilivered terraces on top of pillars, pinecone-seed biomorphic apart ment building, timber, photorealistic central-frame-shot, archdaily award-wining exterior photography --v 6.0 --c 15 --ar 4:5
Midjourney Results / Conception Phase
Form / Geometries Rationalization [AI to Grasshopper] / Adaptation Phase
Base Geometry "Seed" Points Seed Referenced Columns Extrusion
Functional Analysis / Design Development + Re-adaptation Phase
Cantilivered Slabs Lofted with Columns
Base Form Result
DAGUAO
Type
Location
Year
Team
Role
Educational, Unbuilt Maunabo, Puerto Rico
2021
Diaz Paunetto Arquitectos
Project Architect, BIM Manager
In the wake of Hurricane Maria in 2017 and recent earthquakes in Puerto Rico, the need to reassess the reconstruction of our built environment became evident. A community-based pre-school client sought our help to minimize service interruptions, address earthquake-related structural damage, and transform their facility into an Emergency Hub for future natural disasters. The project aims to provide vital emergency services to the community, including water, food, communication, cooking, laundry, social services, and mental health support. The focus was on sustainability and resilience in both existing and new structures. Unstable and non-compliant buildings were demolished, remaining structures were renovated, and a new building was strategically added to redefine the open courtyard and playground around which the design is centered.
Key design strategies included passive conservation methods to reduce heat transfer, enhance natural lighting, and incorporate rainwater harvesting. A robust solar energy generation and storage system, along with waste recycling, were also integral to the
project. The design prioritized adaptability, ensuring that spaces could serve multiple functions, such as emergency shelters, both during normal operations and in the aftermath of a disaster. New and existing buildings were designed to be flexible, allowing for different uses as needed.
The new building not only reorganizes the project layout but also serves as a symbolic reference to the aftermath of Hurricane Maria and the earthquakes. It stands as a reminder of these disasters, with its design making it the focal point of the scheme. The building's envelope, inspired by the piles of debris scattered across the island after the disasters, reflects a scene familiar to many communities. This exterior skin, composed of diverse scrap metal elements in various shapes and sizes, may appear chaotic but achieves a cohesive order. It effectively filters the intense tropical sun, reduces heat transfer, and minimizes the need for artificial lighting, all while giving the project a distinct and unique identity.
AMPHIBIANSCAPE
This project was developed as part of a workshop focused on computational design and parametric modeling techniques, utilizing Grasshopper 3D to explore innovative spatial applications. The workshop emphasized a hands-on approach to learning, requiring participants to have an intermediate understanding of computational tools. Through iterative processes, participants designed either an indoor art installation or an outdoor urban sculpture, pushing the boundaries of traditional design methods.
The workshop aimed to demonstrate how design can foster community interaction, identity, and connection, creating spaces for play, rest, and social engagement. It encouraged the exploration of recreational areas that inspire movement, creativity, and collaboration, addressing scales from intimate indoor spaces to expansive urban environments.
Type Location Year
Concept, Personal San Juan, Puerto Rico 2023
The final design reflects principles of parametric complexity and sculptural dynamism, incorporating fluid geometries, vibrant landscapes, and multifunctional urban spaces that merge reality with fantasy. By leveraging Grasshopper 3D, the project optimized intricate geometries, facilitated iterative experimentation, and addressed specific design constraints efficiently.
Corals
Mangrove
Synthesis
Bezier Curves
Variable Piping / Volume Intersection
Spherical Substraction
VALLE ESCONDIDO
A family of four acquires a home that has many existing design challenges. Originally designed, the house did not take full advantage of the lot and its immediate natural surroundings. Obstructed views of the dense vegetation to the north, lack of cross ventilation, L-shaped bedrooms, bedroom privacy issues, inappropriate location and dimension of spaces, shallow overhangs occurring more as decorative than a protective element, among others, where at the heart of the renovation.
Located in an environmentally rich suburban community the house sits on a 3,429 square meter lot, one full floor under street level. With existing bedrooms and main staircase facing south and completely opening to the street at eye level with cars and pedestrians walking in front of the house, and corridors facing the views to the north, we decided to flip the condition. All bedrooms would now face north to the most private area of the house with views to the back patio and surrounding hills with indirect sunlight, while letting the corridor face south to shield bedrooms from the street and south sun. To
Type Location Year Team Role
Residential, Unbuilt Guaynabo, Puerto Rico 2022
Diaz Paunetto Arquitectos
Project Architect, BIM Manager
protect the corridor from heat transfer and address street privacy issues, a sunscreen comprised of vertical wood veneered aluminum elements was designed to filter the light and allow for a more cohesive reading of the facade.
Large koi fishponds with fountains and water plants mark the north and south side of public spaces, and together with strategically selected vegetation to provide the necessary privacy and sliding glass walls completely opening the house to the exterior at ground level, help provide a sense of place of living in the tropics and further blur the line between interior and exterior. The existing staircase was partially eliminated and replaced with an elevator, and a new stair sits as a sculptural element and focal point of the double height main public place with a skylight above that helps bath with sunlight the wall that serves as background for the stair. All public spaces now have open views of the surrounding hills and have complete visual control of the back patio with open playground areas, pool, and pool house.
INVEST PR
The commission involved the interior design of approximately 5,000sf of space located on the 4th floor of the Parking Annex building for the Puerto Rico Sheraton Hotel & Casino in San Juan. The premises overlook the Convention Center, its central pond with panoramic views of Condado, Puerta de Tierra and Old San Juan. With a very limited budget special attention was given to natural lighting, visibility, sound reduction and simplicity in formal expression within the space. Given the client’s mission and operational organization, the democratization of the interior space and its attributes, while stripping, to the extent possible, all traditional hierarchical office spatial distribution, became of outmost importance.
In the scheme offices are located at the farthest point from the exterior windows overlooking an open work pool area. Being separated only by a continuous frameless glass wall not only allows for natural light to enter the space, but also a reciprocal visibility to and from the executive offices. This physical transparency, in reference to
the client’s fiscal transparency mission in the management of public funds, allows for office executives and employees alike to enjoy the same views and natural light.
Having an open work pool area required us to provide special attention to noise control, and thus a special monolithic and seamless acoustic plaster was employed in ceiling and some walls with a porosity that allowed sound to be absorbed into a panel core beyond.
The very limited budget led us to simplicity in formal expression of the space and the components used. Low budget strategies included polishing the existing concrete floor as the finished floor and opting out of using baseboards and instead raising wall panels one inch from the floor. Also, the main corridor was left open without a ceiling and just painted black leaving infrastructure conduits exposed, while a random pattern of strip lights highlights the circulation importance to the space.
