IN BRIEF
ADD
IN BRIEF
Aalto University Digital Design Laboratory (ADD) is a design research organization jointly initiated in 2011 by the university’s School of Engineering and the School of Arts, Design and Architecture. The objective of ADD is to explore design practice through the effects of computational design, robotic fabrication and new material technologies. ADD operates in a cross disciplinary manner by interconnecting the expertise and creativity of scientists and designers along with technological industries. ADD’s purpose is to create an internationally renowned program – one which is culturally relevant, methodologically innovative and commercially viable. ADD represents a new paradigm of university research and practice. In the spirit of t he Aalto University it is both multidisciplinary and experimental.
ADD – Aalto University Digital Design Laboratory http://addlab.aalto.fi
ADD A = AALTO UNIVERSITY
WHERE WE ARE
Aalto University is an interdisciplinary university, where science and art meet technology and business. The school was established in 2010 by merging three Finnish universities: The Helsinki School of Economics, Helsinki University of Technology and The University of Art and Design Helsinki. Combining these three academic institutions into one strongly future-oriented organization is a bold proposition to redefine the role and function of modern universities.
DD = DIGITAL DESIGN
WHAT WE DO
ADD’s research objectives addresses the paradigm shift introduced by digital technologies within contemporary design and production processes. We live in the most quickly evolving era of human history where new creative tools and manufacturing technologies are revolutionizing both our social and material realities. At an unprecedented scale, digital technologies introduce variation, mutation and flexibility into industrial mass production. This shift holds immense technical, commercial and artistic potential. As a result, the current paradigm shift in design and fabrication methodologies introduces an innovative typological approach with vast industrial applications.
ADD – Aalto University Digital Design Laboratory http://addlab.aalto.fi
IN BRIEF
LABORATORY
HOW WE WORK
ADD aims to provide a valuable forum for scientists, engineers, designers, artists and architects to facilitate cross-disciplinary exchange and networking. ADD is structured through three distinct programs, which aim to import, support and share a global network of innovative knowledge: DESIGN RESEARCH The aim of the Design Research program is to test the possibilities of digital technology in practice. It builds on research and development work executed in collaboration with the industry as well as different research facilities within the university. TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES The Tools and Techniques program focuses on education and training in digital design and manufacturing technologies. It attempts to cultivate cutting edge skills and innovative methodologies from design conception to realization. DISCOURSE The Discourse program explores critical thinking towards the state of production in the electromaterial environment. Through the application of different discursive models – from lectures to editorial projects – it focuses on the complex relationship between science, theor y and production within contemporary practice.
ADD
IN BRIEF
info@addlab.fi http://addlab.aalto.fi
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Aalto University Digital Design Laboratory P.O. BOX 14400 Sähkömiehentie 4G, Espoo FI–00076 Aalto Finland
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ADD – Aalto University Digital Design Laboratory http://addlab.aalto.fi
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IN BRIEF