This research programme was a partnership between David Miller Architects and the Fabrication Lab to explore the opportunities for re-introducing physical model-making workflows to their studio using new rapid prototyping and digital fabrication techniques. Using a series of ongoing, early phase residential projects for Westminster City Council, a review was undertaken for the user requirements for design and presentation models that could incorporate new technologies linked to DMA’s existing BIM workflow. Testing the efficiency and appropriateness of different prototyping techniques for these projects including CNC machining, laser cutting and 3D printing in tandem with the potential for augmented reality and projection mapped information overlays, a model prototype that included a number of methodologies emerged. 

Exchanging DMA studio and Fab Lab knowledge bases on architecture, manufacturing and stakeholder engagement, a tablet AR application was produced with a plug-in context / proposal model base. This worked through the automation of 3D printing context pieces and iterative design proposals, with a layered AR experience developed in Unity. Notably, towards the end of this project a commercial software launched that was published by Unity linking Autodesk Revit BIM information to 2D drawings with printed targets in a very similar fashion to the lines of our research.

The collaboration was part of a proposed series of practice collaborations developing the role of an RIBA Part 1 Architectural Research Assistant, funded through a KEEP+ grant. This offered architecture graduates with interests in DFMA, design through making and digital fabrication technology to learn and advance new processes in the Lab whilst gaining exposure to architectural practice.