Caschlatsch

As part of the second trimester (T2) of the MAS programme, students developed and constructed a timber structure that served as a case study for exploring digital design and fabrication methods. The project emphasized the integration of computational tools to manage and streamline the entire workflow, from initial design through to on-site assembly.

The structure not only serves as a sculptural statement but also invites visitors to discover the interior space at its top. The project was developed using advanced parametric design tools, enhanced with custom code, allowing the students to manage a high level of complexity throughout the entire process. This design logic enabled the integration of multiple parameters—ranging from aesthetic choices and structural feasibility to fabrication and assembly planning—into a unified workflow.

Virtual reality (VR) was used during the design phase to visualize the structure within its intended site context, helping to refine design decisions and evaluate spatial qualities. Meanwhile, the parametric model itself played a central role in addressing critical aspects of the project. It provided precise calculations for fabrication timelines, derived from the number of pieces, and supported logistics management, based on the weight and dimensions of the prefabricated modules. Engineering analysis was directly conducted from the digital model, ensuring accurate optimization of the timber elements, while CNC production files were seamlessly generated to streamline fabrication.

To facilitate assembly, the students developed an augmented reality (AR) application. This tool guided the placement and connection of modules, making the assembly process significantly more manageable. Without this technology, it would have been challenging to position the beams accurately using traditional representations. By integrating all these considerations into the design tool, the students achieved a cohesive and efficient workflow that bridged design, analysis, fabrication, and construction.

The project demonstrated the capability of computational tools to provide comprehensive control over complex architectural workflows. By leveraging these technologies, the team was able to address challenges that would have been difficult to overcome using conventional methods, underscoring the value of research in advancing digital design and construction processes.

more information about this project

Gramazio Kohler Research
Prof. Matthias Kohler, Prof. Fabio Gramazio, Petrus Aejmelaeus-Lindström (Project Lead), Oliver Bucklin (Research Lead), Ananya Kango, Simon Griffioen, Francesco Milano, Aurèle Gheyselinck, Alexandra Moisi, Joseph Kenny, Chen Kasirer, Gonzalo Casas

In collaboration with: #dfdu AG (Stefan M. Seydel), Studio UH Architecs ETH SIA, Nicolas Fehlmann Ingénieurs Conseils SA

Client: Gemeinde Disentis/Mustér

Selected Experts: Bearth Lenn AG, Strabag AG Disentis/Mustér, Prof. Daniela Mitterberger (COMPAS_XR), Ziqi Wang (Task Sequencing and Allocation)

Sponsors: Schilliger Holz AG, Bearth Lenn AG, Strabag AG Disentis/Mustér, SFS Group Schweiz AG, Bau & Holz