AA DLAB : BLUE

Monday 22 July – Sunday 4 August 2013

Applications for DLAB is now closed.

DLAB experiments with the integration of algorithmic and generative design methodologies as well as with large scale digital fabrication tools. Continuing its color based agenda, DLAB will immerse in blue for its 2013 cycle as a way to investigate natural growth processes in relation to innovative concepts of architectural tectonics and fabrication. Blue will become the inspiration for diving into the depths of emergence, differentiation and complexity which are found at various scales in nature. We will carefully interweave these concepts with interaction and participatory design in order to create full-scale working prototypes. The programme will be formulated as a two-phase process. During the initial phase participants will benefit from the unique atmosphere and facilities of AA’s London home. The second phase will shift to AA Hooke Park campus and revolve around the fabrication and assembly of a full-scale architectural intervention which will unify the design goals of DLab. The first phase of DLAB will take place in AA's London facilities between 22-29 July; the second phase at Hooke Park will take place between 30 July - 4 August 2013

 Some of the most prominent features which the participants will be exposed to during DLAB include:   

• Teaching team: DLAB tutors are selected from recent graduates / current tutors at the AA. Participants engage in an active learning environment where the large tutor to student ratio (5:1) allows for personalized tutorials and debates.

• Facilities: AA London houses cutting-edge facilities for the fabrication of physical outputs through digital fabrication techniques or other forms including the use of plastics, wood, and metal. Digital Prototyping Lab (DPL) offers laser cutting, CNC milling, and 3d printing facilities. The facilities at AA Hooke Park allow for the fabrication of one-to-one scale prototypes with a 3-axis CNC router and various woodworking power tools.

• Computational skills: The toolset of DLAB includes but is not limited to Rhinoceros, Processing, Arduino, and Grasshopper.

• Theoretical understanding: The dissemination of fundamental design techniques and relevant critical thinking methodologies to the participants through theoretical sessions and seminars forms one of the major goals of DLAB.

• Professional awareness: DLAB performs as a simulation of the professional environment due the priority given to team-based design approach. Participants ranging from 2nd year students to PhD candidates and full-time professionals experience a highly-focused collaborative educational model which promotes research-based design and making.

• Fabrication: According to the specific agenda of each year, a one-to-one scale prototype is fabricated and assembled by design teams.

• Lecture series: Taking advantage of its unique location, London, DLAB creates a vibrant atmosphere with its intense lecture programme conveying the diverse expertise of professionals from some of the world’s leading practices in the areas of digital design and fabrication techniques.

Applications

The deadline for applications is 8 July 2013. 

An application can be made by completing the online application form or completing the PDF application form and emailing it to visitingschool@aaschool.ac.uk."

All participants traveling from abroad are responsible for securing any visa required for entry to the United Kingdom, and are advised to contact their home embassy early. After payment of fees, the AA School can provide a letter confirming participation in the workshop.

Fees

The AA Visiting School requires a total fee of £1,660 per participant, which includes a £700 deposit and a £60 Visiting Membership. If you are already a member, the total fee will be reduced by £60.

Fees are non refundable. Fees do not include flights.

Train tickets between London-Hooke Park, accommodation, food in Hooke Park, and materials are included in the fees.

Students need to bring their own laptops, digital equipment and model making tools. 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.