Indexlab explores novel forms of architectural materialization by integrating digital fabrication technologies into the design and production process. We met with Pierpaolo, who presents his creation based on the thesis work “Digital Construction Design and Robotic Fabrication”.

“Computational Design and robotic fabrication are two of the fastest emerging and most radical technologies reshaping architecture today and this is what we do at Indexlab. We explore new ways to take what is thought and designed through algorithms into a material form. We always search for new patterns to emerge. This is an installation that explores the possibilities of combining different materials and techniques to create an experience with a fragmented sense of time and perspective.

The aspiration is to achieve complexity of form and mass-customization of building components. Through variation and differentiation in patterns, architecture becomes increasingly meaningful and expressive. At Indexlab, we design by challenging and researching. In our workshop we create tools and all kind of end-effectors. By writing algorithms, we can incorporate tectonics and parameters of production machinery into the design process – in a feedback loop way. “

“For this installation, we assembled an exceptional team of designers and engineers and we had the wonderful opportunity to cooperate with Formech, a market leader of vacuum forming machines. Together we handle complex operations in a very fast time-frame. The Formech 686 we use is really good at meeting our specific needs: it’s very flexible, quick and easy to operate, it allows us to form and build parts extremely fast. Quartz heaters provide an energy efficient solution and accurate heating profiles give consistent and precise results.”

“For us, robotics is a way to bring together art and science. Robotic fabrication bridges the gap between imagination and realization. The robot is the link between the abstract and the matter, it connects the digital reality with the built environment.”

Pierpaolo, founder of Indexlab