ADD (Architectural Digital Design) takes great pride in offering students at all levels an innovative digital literacy program. Our curriculum is built upon the fundamental pillars of digital design in architecture, focusing on visual communication, fabrication, and computation. By exploring these core areas, students have the opportunity to develop their own unique design language and master complex visualization techniques across various styles.
In addition to visual communication, we empower students to delve into advanced computation techniques. They can learn to code optimal urban cities, simulate sustainable carbon-neutral design strategies, and gain a deeper understanding of the intersection between architecture and technology. We strongly advocate for a balanced approach that values both analogue and digital methods. Through our program, students can explore hybrid drawing techniques and mixed media fabrication of scale models, fostering a healthy relationship between traditional and digital practices.
To support these endeavours, we have significantly enhanced our digital infrastructure this year. Students now have access to two state-of-the-art computer labs equipped with a total of 180 high-spec PCs, as well as loanable high-spec laptops. We have also acquired a Phantom 4 RTK Drone for aerial surveys and data capture, 3D scanners, iPads, and a comprehensive suite of 3D printers from Ultimaker and Formlabs. Our students can also remotely access our dedicated CAD Labs from anywhere in the world, ensuring access to powerful computing and cutting-edge software 24/7. Embracing innovation and addressing digital poverty are paramount to enriching the student learning experience.
Furthermore, we have revamped our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) to provide a more user-friendly and intuitive system. Within this platform, students can easily schedule one-on-one tutorials with our ADD team members, available five days a week. They can also sign up for our inclusive 'all-school' ADD workshops or access information on software procurement, additional learning resources and nearby fabrication facilities. Lastly, to deliver such a diverse skillset, we are thrilled to welcome two new members to our ADD team this year. Nicolas Turchi, a computation specialist with experience at Zaha Hadid Architects, and Anastasiya Luban, a visualisation specialist from the University of Huddersfield and Birmingham City University. Their expertise has already further enhanced our program, providing invaluable guidance to our students.
At ADD, we are committed to nurturing digital literacy and empowering students to excel in the rapidly evolving field of architectural digital design. Through our comprehensive curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and expert team, we aim to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the digital age.
