DF_Lab: Designing Making

In DF_LAB students explore architectural design through making, at the intersection of craft knowledge, advanced technologies, and non-standard materials. Traditional timber techniques will be re-invented through computer aided design and manufacturing technologies. Emerging tools such as 3D scanning, algorithmic modelling, and CNC fabrication will allow to integrate natural geometry and material behaviours into the designed form.
Image Credits - DF_Lab 2023 Semester 2 - George Fielding

Further Information

For additional details on the subject content, please consult the Subject Handbook at the link provided below.

Handbook - ABPL90378

Previous Iterations

2024 - Semester 1

Applications deadlines to be confirmed.

Tutors: Michael Park
Subject Coordinator: Associate Professor Rochus Hinkel & Craig McCormack

2023 -  Semester 2

Tutors: Michael Park
Subject Coordinator: Associate Professor Rochus Hinkel

Positioned at the intersection of craft, material, and technology, students of DF_Lab will explore the potential for material and technology-driven changes in timber architecture. Emerging tools such as 3D scanning, algorithmic modelling, AR technology and CNC fabrication will be applied in full-scale system prototypes as vehicles of design research.

2022 -  Summer

Tutors: Mitchell Ransome, Darcy Zelenko
Subject Coordinator: Associate Professor Rochus Hinkel

In this Summer Intensive students will be joining a team of researchers from ADD+F Research Hub to develop a modular street fixture for outdoor ambient cooling. Students will have the opportunity to take part in the design and making of a structure that supports an evaporative cooling system. The structure will use sensor technology capable of controlling local climatic conditions and helping mitigate overheating in the built environment. Students will explore and apply a digitally-driven workflow to build a physical prototype, utilising a 3-axis milling machine to fabricate the components needed to assemble an approximately 4-meter-tall structure.

Exhibited during the Melbourne Design Week 2022.