Understanding architecture as parameter-dependent process is key to developing radical scenarios which challenge conventional design thinking and incorporate emerging technologies to their full potential.

Cristina Nan is an Assistant Professor in the Unit of Architectural Design and Engineering (ADE) in the Department of the Built Environment of Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). In her research, Nan focuses on emerging technologies relating to computational design and digital fabrication, such as additive manufacturing, automation, architectural robotics and material experimentation. 

The process of making is central in her research, in which she considers algorithm-aided design, aspects of conventional craftsmanship and digital fabrication as equal, interlinked parameters. Cristina explores hybridized material systems and both digital and non-digital fabrication strategies in relation to non-standard geometries. Form optimization and sectional optimization, the concept of digital materiality and material circularity are key areas of Cristina’s focus.

Another investigative stream interrogates the socio-economic, spatial and environmental implications of automation, ICT and correlated market-driven models. These impact both on the spatial formulation of architecture and on the operational mode of the construction sector, which are relevant parameters when it comes to formulating future scenarios for the architectural discipline.

During her PhD, Cristina, focused on architectural robotics and machinecraft. She was part of the research team that developed the Minibuilders at the Institute of Advanced Architecture of Catalonia in Barcelona (Spain), which was internationally widely published. Her work was exhibited at the National Museum of Scotland, Festival of Architecture Montpellier 2019, London Design Fair, ArcInTex Edinburgh and Concrete Construction Centre part of Futurebuild 2019 at ExCel London.

Cristina Nan studied architecture at the Technical University Munich (Germany). After her graduation in 2010, she worked for architectural firms in Germany such as Herzog und Partner and KSP Jurgen Engels Architekten. She received her PhD with honors (magna cum laude) from the HafenCity University in Hamburg (Germany) in 2015. From 2015 to 2020, Cristina was Assistant Professor in Digital Fabrication and Design at the Edinburgh School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture at the University of Edinburgh (UK). She also held the position of International Director of the Edinburgh College of Art at University of Edinburgh. Cristina is co-founder of FFTT — Future Fields Think Tank, launched in 2019. She took a position as Assistant Professor at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) in 2020.

RAFT Research Group, Edinburgh College of Art, University of Edinburgh

Future//Fields Think Tank