Made / Unmade in Iowa: Beyond Extraction
This studio examines both making and unmaking through additive construction and deconstruction. Additive construction is unique from additive manufacturing (commonly referred to as 3D printing). In additive construction the design, production and/or assembly processes are digitally controlled to some extent but not be completely digitally determined. It is the process of joining materials to create constructions from 3D model data. How can we construct architecture beyond extraction? What is an architecture that relies on an ethos of care, repair, and reuse? Are there more sustainable methods of additive construction and deconstruction? What if we consider existing materials and waste products from construction, demolition, industry, and agriculture as architectural materials?
Students will work individually, in pairs, and in groups to conduct material research using a combination of 3D scanning, augmented reality, 3D modeling, digital fabrication, and traditional construction methods. Project specifics to be determined but will likely include work with a local community and a final exhibition of the resulting work.
Course objectives:
- Translate digital models into physical objects
- Translate physical objects into digital models
- Demonstrate an understanding of available robotically aided digital fabrication technologies
- Understand and utilize material constraints in robotically aided digital fabrication
- Document the fabrication process through drawing and photography
- Draw and model design proposals using digital technology
- Use an iterative and reflective design process
- Demonstrate an ability to clearly present a project to others
