Design-Tech Talk 2.0

Professor Wassim Jabi is the course director of the MSc Computational Methods in Architecture programme at the Welsh School of Architecture, Cardiff University in Wales, the United Kingdom. He earned his M.Arch. and Ph.D. from the University of Michigan and taught at various universities in the U.S. before moving to the UK in 2008. While teaching in the U.S., he secured a $250,000 (USD) National Science Foundation (NSF) grant as Primary Investigator. Professor Jabi has published widely on topics ranging from parametric and generative design to the role of light in architecture and building performance simulation. He has authored a book titled "Parametric Design for Architecture" (Laurence King Publishing, London). In 2013, Professor Jabi won £70,000 (GBP) in funding from the university's internal competitive funding scheme to purchase a large 6-axis high accuracy industrial robot to investigate innovative digital fabrication processes. His current research is at the intersection parametric design, the representation of space, building performance simulation, machine learning, and robotic fabrication in architecture. Professor Jabi has recently concluded a £300,000 (GBP) grant from the Leverhulme Trust as Primary Investigator to study spatial topology in building information modelling (BIM). This resulted in a software library called Topologic

Mauro Sabiu, an architect initially trained in traditional practices, experienced a transformative shift in his career upon joining Perkins+Will and later Zaha Hadid Architects. These experiences ignited his passion for revolutionizing the architectural industry—not just through experimentation but by leveraging it to create better buildings. A significant part of his journey has been his dedication to enhancing the everyday work life of architects. From his insider perspective, it’s clear how much time and effort are consumed by repetitive, tedious tasks that distract architects from what they truly love: design.Beyond the realm of design, Mauro’s goal has always been to enrich the overall design process. He believes this can only be achieved through knowledge, which in today’s world is increasingly intertwined with technology. A prime example of this integration is BEAM, an interoperability tool he has supported that bridges Rhino and Revit. This tool streamlines the interoperability process, allowing architects to focus more on creative design.Currently, at MKS DTECH, Mauro’s primary objective is to ensure that their outcomes are not just successful but also that the process of creation is enjoyable. He strives to make every day in the architectural field not just a task but a rewarding experience, enhancing both efficiency and job satisfaction for himself and his colleagues. For Mauro, this journey is about more than just constructing buildings; it’s about building a better way of working through technology and innovation.

Mikael Santrolli's architectural path has always been driven by the intersection of design and technology, beginning at Zaha Hadid Architects and continuing at Foster + Partners. Working for almost a decade in BIM and computational design roles opened his eyes to how technology could elevate not only the end result but the entire design process. Recognizing that coding and programming were essential to fully realizing this vision, he immersed himself in software development, bridging the gap between architectural creativity and technological capability.Now, at MKS DTECH, Mikael is committed to simplifying digital workflows and empowering architects to achieve new levels of efficiency and innovation. BEAM, a project he has deeply invested in, bridges Rhino, Revit, and IFC, transforming how architects manage and share data across platforms. This tool goes beyond technical interoperability; it empowers architects to focus on what they value most—the creative process—free from cumbersome software constraints.At MKS DTECH, Mikael's mission is to develop solutions that address real challenges faced by architects, making technology a true ally in the design process.

Ganit Goldstein is a Computation Textile and Fashion Designer known for her innovative work in smart textile systems, focusing on the intersection of craft and technology. She blends virtual tools with tangible materials to push the boundaries of programmable textiles, particularly through pioneering the use of 3D printing for custom-designed fabrics.Ganit holds a degree in Computation in Architecture from MIT and was part of the inaugural cohort at the MIT Morningside Academy of Design. She also worked as a research assistant at MIT’s Self-Assembly Lab and the Media Lab’s Tangible Media Group. Between 2019 and 2021, she earned an MA in Textiles from the Royal College of Art in London, following her distinction graduation from Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design.Her collections have received global recognition, winning prestigious awards and receiving significant media attention. Ganit’s work has been showcased at leading exhibitions, including Milan Design Week, New York Textile Month, Munich Jewellery Week, and many more. Passionate about interdisciplinary design, Ganit combines traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technologies, fostering a deep connection between craft, technology, science, and art through pioneering research and international collaborations.