‘Topos’ by Victoria Goldstein, Victor Orive, Arturo Revilla
Houston
InterScaless, University of HoustonMonday 6 – Monday 20 August 2012
Over the two weeks of the InterScaless workshop students develop parametric design strategies that enable them to generate design scenarios across scales while focusing on a given conceptual framework. The challenge this year is to rebuild the relationship between the emblematic structure of the Houston Astrodome and the urban structure of the city. To do this we will speculate via computational systems on the possible interaction between housing and local ecologies.
The site around the Astrodome, defined by a vast disused parking lot and its adjacency to the highway, presents a unique opportunity for our investigations. Through studying different ecological conditions within the domed sports stadium and its concrete surroundings we will set in motion a system of green agents that will grow into aggregations, inhabiting the Astrodome and redefining its limits. Parametric systems responding to different environmental studies will lead to a range of artificial/ responsive structures.
Students will work in teams to explore different scales and programmes for the generation of new urban relations. They will use parametric tools to renegotiate multiple scales in real time while incorporating complexity given by environmental conditions. Redefining the threshold between urban agents will give rise to a new syntax between architectural elements. Parametric techniques and tools will be introduced during the workshop. Students will also present and discuss selected readings relevant to the topic. The aim is to open up a critical debate about how this approach affects the work of the architect and redefines the language of the discipline.
Material systems are interpreted through computer simulations in fast explorations to elaborate the proposals. Design tutors including Arturo Revilla and professionals from both the A A and other institutions will provide digital tutorials and lectures on their urban design research and projects.
Week 2
Applications
The deadline for applications is 25 July 2012. All participants travelling from abroad are responsible for securing any visa required. After payment of fees, the AA can provide a letter confirming participation in the workshop.
A portfolio or CV is not required, only the online application form and payment.
Fees
The AA Visiting School requires a fee of £695 per participant, which includes a £50 Visiting Membership. If you are already a member, the total fee will be reduced automatically by £50 by the online payment system. Fees do not include flights or accommodation, but advice on accommodation options will be given. On campus accommodation will be provided at student rates.
Students need to bring their own laptops, digital equipment and modelmaking tools. UH will also provide access to a computer lab and fully equipped prototyping centre. Please ensure this equipment is covered by your own insurance as the AA takes no responsibility for items lost or stolen at the workshop.
Eligibility
The workshop is open to architecture and design students and professionals worldwide.
