Cape Town

Dates TBC

Digital Constructions brings together international and local students, academics and practising architects in a ten-day programme investigating digital design and fabrication methods for the production of social housing in South Africa. Organised as a collaboration between the AA, the University of Hong Kong and local industry partners, the workshop combines advanced design processes with local manufacturing facilities for the production of 1:1 scale housing prototypes.

Held in Cape Town this year to coincide with the AZA 2012 Biennial Festival, the workshop utilises the most current digital design and fabrication technologies, exploring their potential applications within the challenging context of South Africa’s urban areas. The aim is to construct fullscale working prototypes on a live site within the city, exhibited as part of the AZA urban culture and architecture festival.

Starting with collaborative digital design processes, the programme will introduce participants to methods for creating fabrication-based, open-ended design systems able to incorporate programmatic and site-specific criteria. Implementation through digitally controlled fabrication processes such as CNC and laser-cutting will allow for the testing and the evaluation of functional prototypes, leading to the iterative development of calibrated and realistic digital design models. In the second phase of the workshop, two of the proposals will be taken forward to construction, working in collaboration with local fabricators. 

Participation within the workshop will be through team work, combining design development and project management to implement an integrated file to factory work flow. A number of public presentations will serve as a platform to discuss the work with local specialists, exploring its potential for future application within the city.

Applications

The deadline for applications is TBC. 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 are non refundable.

Fees do not include flights or accommodation, but accommodation with local students can be arranged for visiting students. Participants need to bring their own camera equipment and laptops with a current version of Rhino and Grasshopper readily installed. 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.