Artificial matters

Artificial matters

SCI-Arc as Architects

This studio will borrow some of the techniques developed and mastered by artists, and will apply them to an architectural project. The work of the students will aim to extend the potential of architectural envelope and massing to produce hyper-realistic experiences through the invention of new breeds of artificial matter. Students will investigate how synthetic materials can induce novel sensuality, intellectual associations, and visual effects. The goal of the class is to broaden students’ intellectual and critical understanding of how architectural envelopes are perceived, while increasing their range of technical skill sets. Although the studio will make heavy use of digital techniques like 3d laser scanning, CNC machining, and advanced software like Maya and Zbrush, one of the ambition of the studio is that these digital procedures will not be clearly visible in the final project, but the viewer will wonder how such things have been or could be made. The projects will not yield to clean judgments or bottom lines, especially not about what is living or non-living, organic or technological, promising or threatening, true or synthetic. Ideas about nature and its simulation are central to the studio, inviting the students to question what is 'real' and what is not. The interest of the studio is an expanded, hybrid nature rather than the purist 'return to Eden' concept that is usually opposed to the artificial. Made with the aid of computer technology, each project will collapse reality and artifice, and propose that contemporary architectural materials are often a mutation from the “original” producing a world in which fact, fiction and fantasy co-exist.

Project Credits
Architects
Product Spec Sheet

Project Spotlight
Product Spotlight
News
10 public buildings that demonstrate architectural applications of precast concrete
27 Mar 2024 Specification
10 public buildings that demonstrate architectural applications of precast concrete

Precast concrete is made by casting concrete in a reusable mold. These molds are made of various mat... More

Sameep Padora and Associates creates a flowing, organic art center in southern India
26 Mar 2024 News
Sameep Padora & Associates creates a flowing, organic art center in southern India

Mumbai-based Sameep Padora & Associates (sP+a) has completed Hampi Art Labs in Toranagallu, a vi... More

Introducing Partner Thermory AS
26 Mar 2024 Partner News
Introducing Partner Thermory AS

Thermory AS offers a diverse product range that includes durable exterior cladding, decking, interio... More

Brooklyn Tower by ShOP Architects showcases a unique materiality
25 Mar 2024 News
Brooklyn Tower by ShOP Architects showcases a unique materiality

Brooklyn Tower, standing an impressive ninety-three stories tall with a unique neo-deco crown, is al... More

Doriana Fuksas, Martin Lesjak, Li Xiang and Steven Wright join Archello Awards 2024 jury
25 Mar 2024 Archello Awards
Doriana Fuksas, Martin Lesjak, Li Xiang and Steven Wright join Archello Awards 2024 jury

Doriana Fuksas, Martin Lesjak, Li Xiang and Steven Wright have been announced as Archello Awards 202... More

Detail: Pleated facade geometry of Bonfiglioli HQ by Peter Pichler Architecture
21 Mar 2024 Detail
Detail: Pleated facade geometry of Bonfiglioli HQ by Peter Pichler Architecture

Designed by Peter Pichler Architecture, the new Bonfiglioli Headquarters is located in Calderara di... More

Introducing Partner Linea Light Group
21 Mar 2024 Partner News
Introducing Partner Linea Light Group

Linea Light Group is an Italian company known for its innovative lighting solutions. The company off... More

New infill apartment building in Prague reflects an industrial heritage
20 Mar 2024 News
New infill apartment building in Prague reflects an industrial heritage

Iconik is a residential apartment building in the Karlín neighborhood of Prague. Designed by... More