tommaso casucci: biodigital processes in architecture

‘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.

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.

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.

(left) entrance (right) interior workspace

lecture / meeting area

light penetrates the exterior skin

areal view

floor plan / level 0

floor plan / level +1

section

section

section

section

section

concept model

detail of skin on model

site study

site plan showing the effects of topological variation

variations of the overall structure

diagram showing the evolution of the exterior surface

technical development of the exterior skin