‘biodigital processes in architecture’ by tommaso casucci, florence, italy images courtesy of tommaso casucci

italian architecture student, tommaso casucci, has developed ‘biodigital processes in architecture’, a thesis proposal for the new library of the school of architecture in florence, italy. as part of a renovation plan, the existing structure – which was once used as a convent then a penitentiary – is retrofitted to include study halls, meeting areas, an auditorium and exhibition spaces.

exploring the emergent qualities derived from surface modulation, the structure aims to provide a continuous and varying experience that accommodates the programmatic functions of the school.

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture exterior view

the overall form was developed through a generative methodology that was used to test multiple solutions and outcomes representing optimal compromises of structure, performance, program and connections. as a result, a series of highly differentiating spaces and sub-structures consume the environment, creating meandering and adaptive work areas for the students and faculty. void of typical perpendicular planes, the interior environment consists of softly undulating white surfaces that skew and rotate to incorporate elements of furniture.

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture entrance

an organic and porous skin engulfs the existing brick structure, blurring the boundaries between indoors and out. light and air penetrate the transitory spaces, which lack traditional doors and windows.

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture (left) entrance (right) interior workspace

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture lecture / meeting area

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture light penetrates the exterior skin

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture areal view

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture floor plan / level 0

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture floor plan / level +1

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture section

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture section

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture section

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture section

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture section

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture concept model

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture detail of skin on model

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture site study

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture site plan showing the effects of topological variation

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture variations of the overall structure

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture diagram showing the evolution of the exterior surface

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture technical development of the exterior skin

tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture