EPFLx: Groundscape Architecture Lab. Carpark Futures

EPFLx: Groundscape Architecture Lab. Carpark Futures

by École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne

Groundscape Architecture Lab

Course Description

Welcome to the Groundscape Architecture Lab, an innovative course that delves into the future of underground parking infrastructures. This cutting-edge program, supported by Indigo Group, the world leader in parking solutions, offers a unique opportunity to explore and reimagine the role of parking in our rapidly evolving urban landscapes.

As cities face increasing challenges related to mobility, logistics, and energy, the transformation of parking infrastructures has become a critical area of focus. This course will equip you with the knowledge and skills to develop creative architectural strategies that address these challenges head-on.

What Students Will Learn

  • Advanced underground design techniques
  • Innovative approaches to parking infrastructure transformation
  • Strategies for addressing urban mobility, logistics, and energy challenges
  • Collaboration and presentation skills through interactions with industry experts
  • Preparation for the upcoming Parking Futures architecture competition

Pre-requisites

While this course is open to all, having basic Architecture and Design knowledge is recommended, especially for representation purposes. Students should be comfortable with English, as all course materials and interactions will be in this language.

Course Coverage

  • Groundscape architecture principles and applications
  • Future trends in parking infrastructure design
  • Sustainable and adaptive reuse strategies for existing parking structures
  • Integration of new technologies in parking design
  • Urban planning considerations for underground spaces
  • Presentation and critique of design concepts
  • Preparation for the Parking Futures competition

Who This Course Is For

This course is ideal for architecture students, urban planners, designers, and professionals interested in the future of urban infrastructure. It's perfect for those who want to push the boundaries of conventional thinking and contribute to shaping the cities of tomorrow.

Real-World Applications

The skills acquired in this course will be invaluable for professionals working in urban development, architecture firms, city planning departments, and transportation agencies. Graduates will be equipped to:

  • Design innovative underground spaces that maximize land use
  • Propose solutions for repurposing existing parking structures
  • Contribute to sustainable urban mobility plans
  • Participate in international architecture competitions
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on complex urban projects

Syllabus

I. THE GROUNDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE LAB

  • Introduction to Groundscape as an urban strategy
  • Site visits and case studies of Groundscape projects
  • Tools and techniques for developing Groundscape projects

II. THE CARPARK FUTURES DESIGN STUDIO

  • Exploration of future parking concepts
  • Peer-to-peer idea exchange and collaboration
  • Instructor-led feedback and guidance
  • Preparation for the Carpark Futures Competition

III. THE CARPARK FUTURES COMPETITION

  • Introduction to the international call for entries
  • Guidelines for submitting course work as competition entries

Throughout the course, students will benefit from live feedback and monthly presentations by professors Ignacio Ferrer and Octave Perrault, as well as guest speakers from the industry. This unique blend of theoretical knowledge, practical application, and real-world competition preparation makes the Groundscape Architecture Lab an unparalleled opportunity for anyone passionate about shaping the future of our urban environments.

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