[2016] DIOD An interactive lighting installation using Kinect to
map topologies and project levels with a projector.
[2016] Weti A responsive environmental system using Arduino and
a moisture sensor to monitor the clay’s hydration levels.
Publications
[2021] JAVID: A Grasshopper Plugin for Image ProcessingAn image-processing plugin for Grasshopper that generates artistic two-dimensional graphical images from bitmap files.
Link to JAVID on Food4Rhino [2021] IAC: A Grasshopper Plugin for Mathematics and GeometryA Grasshopper plugin featuring components for mathematics and geometry, designed to enhance data processing speed and address missing functionalities in Grasshopper workflows.
Authors: Mahdiyar Esmailbeigi, Parisa Afshari, Ghazaleh Elyasi, Maedeh Fallah, Mohammad Mehdi Jalali, Atena Meshkat, Laleh Moradi, Hamid Peiro, Ali Sa’adati, Helia Zakeri, Fatemeh Zarei
(Names are sorted alphabetically.) Team: Ahmadreza Amiri, Hamid Peiro, Parham Ostovar Designing a Sustainable Pre-School: Embracing Local Context and Challenges
The project is located in a region with a hot, humid climate, abundant trees, and economic challenges, where the average family income is below the global standard. The concept of the Escolinha—a pre-school—focuses on five key principles outlined in the design brief:
1.Site Characteristics and Climate Adaptation
The building is strategically placed at the south end of the site on its highest point to prevent flooding due to high annual rainfall. Its orientation optimizes northern sunlight, while deep terraces and shading elements block direct sunlight and heavy rain. The ceiling is raised above the walls to improve ventilation, effectively mitigating the hot, humid climate.
2.Construction System and Cost-Efficient Materials
Local materials are essential to the design. The structure relies on simple wooden columns with single lime-and-clay foundations. Walls use a sandwich panel system composed of bamboo cores, palm leaves, and reinforced clay—a traditional Iranian material mixed with dry grass. The roof incorporates materials common in Mozambique, with a steel base covered by palm leaves and finished with reinforced clay for durability.
3.Inclusive Spaces for Children
The design prioritizes accessibility, featuring wide entrances, ramps, spacious interiors, and dedicated facilities for disabled children, including toilets, baths, and a play area. The absence of stairs ensures ease of movement for all users.
4.Self-Sufficient Energy Solutions
Solar panels installed on the roof provide electricity and hot water. The design includes provisions for integrating biogas extraction from the septic tank, adding the potential for future energy sustainability.
5.Environmental Awareness and Education
The project preserves all existing trees, even those within the main building footprint, emphasizing their value to the site. A garden located on the southern side promotes environmental stewardship among students, encouraging them to connect with and care for nature.
This project exemplifies sustainable, context-sensitive architecture, fostering a nurturing environment for children while addressing local climate, material availability, and economic constraints.