In early September, the 2022-23 students of the Master in Advanced Ecological Buildings and Biocities (MAEBB) programme presented their final thesis project, Mobile Cabin (MO.CA), and celebrated their Graduation Day alongside their faculty, families and friends.
This event marked the culmination of an intensive 11-month journey, during which they immersed themselves in their studies at IAAC’s Valldaura Labs. Throughout this period, their focus was on an ambitious project: the creation of a 3.5-ton mobile home constructed entirely from wood sourced from Collserola Park’s forest. What makes this achievement even more special is that it was a collaborative effort carried on by the students themselves, a diverse group comprising 24 individuals hailing from 14 different countries around the world.
Over the past five months of the programme, the group dedicated their efforts to building a fully functional prototype, which underwent various phases. Initially, the team started with the design phase, carefully translating abstract ideas into precise drawings through collaborative effort. With the design solidified, the project transitioned into the manufacturing stage, where students applied engineering principles to craft the physical components of the prototype. The subsequent construction phase showcased their attention to detail, as they assembled and integrated each component according to plans. After construction, the prototype underwent testing, subjecting it to assessments to verify functionality, durability, and ecological compliance.
Once again, MAEBB students have built an example of sustainability, showcasing IAAC commitment to eco-friendly practices through the use of locally sourced, sustainable materials and energy-efficient design. Soon, the MO.CA project will be featured on our webpage.
During the final presentation, students had the opportunity to showcase their work and engage in discussions with industry experts such as SUMA Arquitectura, José Antonio Gras, Olga Subiros, Mathilde Marengo, among others. After an initial opening by IAAC Director, Daniel Ibañez, the Graduation ceremony proceeded with the diploma presentation, and words by the Master’s Programme Directors Vicente Guallart and Michael Salka, as well as the coordinator, Esin Aydemir. Afterwards, the celebration followed with an informal gathering with classmates and families.
