510178 - DIGITAL MODELS FOR ARCHITECTURAL REPRESENTATION

courses

ID:

510178

Duration (hours):

60

CFU:

SSD:

DISEGNO

Year:

2025

Date/time interval

Primo Semestre (29/09/2025 - 16/01/2026)

Course Objectives

The course aims to provide the knowledge necessary to analyse, develop and produce virtual models and digital images for the three-dimensional digital representation of architecture. Addressing the theme of digital representation of real environments and buildings, the course will explore issues related to processes, methods and tools suitable for the development of integrated operational workflows for three-dimensional modelling. The use of multiple platforms and model types will encourage students to consolidate their critical awareness of the issues addressed during the course through theoretical lessons and practical exercises. The aim of the course is to provide a range of operational possibilities for the creation of three-dimensional, geometric and parametric digital models, highlighting the iterative potential of the various representations. The course aims to analyse the problems associated with rendering, combining the learning of topics related to the production of 3D digital works with a process of building knowledge related to the development of media languages for the virtual narration of architecture. In this way, students will acquire a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of 3D modelling, digital media integration and the development of realistic representations.

Course Prerequisites

Fundamentals of architectural representation, fundamentals of descriptive and projective geometry. Fundamentals of CAD-assisted design. At least one software programme dedicated to graphics and layout (e.g. Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, etc.).

Teaching Methods

The 6- CFU course consists of 28 hours of lectures and 32 hours of practical exercises, for a total of 60 hours. The lectures are structured around a series of in-depth topics that address the main problems of representation and development of 3D models, illustrating examples and comparing different types of workflows. The practical exercises are designed to test the learning of the course content, offering a series of exercises aimed at verifying the effective knowledge of the skills acquired.

Assessment Methods

The knowledge acquired will be assessed through exercises that students are required to complete during the course and by passing an oral exam on the theoretical concepts of the subject. The exercises are structured around topics that run parallel to the content of the lessons, providing practical opportunities to test and compare the skills acquired. In this way, students are encouraged to engage with teaching staff and tutors through a process of learning-by-doing. The exercises are configured as intermediate tests that are subject to assessment in order to encourage students to study consistently throughout the semester, thereby lightening the exam load. The monographic topic assigned to each student will serve as a basis for developing a product to be presented during the exam.

Texts

Melendez, F. (2019). Drawing from the Model: Fundamentals of Digital Drawing, 3D Modeling, and Visual Programming in Architectural Design. Bettetini, G. (1991). La simulazione visiva. Inganno, finzione, poesia, computer graphics. Bompiani editore. Di Marco, G. (2017). Simplified complexity. Metodo per la modellazione NURBS avanzata con Rhinoceros. Edizioni Le Penseur. De Luca, L. (2011). La fotomodellazione architettonica. Rilievo, modellazione, rappresentazione di edifici a partire da fotografie. Flaccovio Editore

The course is structured according to a division of topics into three teaching modules: the first relates to digital geometric modelling for architectural representation, the second deals with topics related to the development of parametric models according to BIM processes, and the third relates to digital translation and visual simulation through rendering processes. Lectures are accompanied by practical exercises, integrating theoretical content and technical skills useful for the development of digital products. The lessons are structured in such a way as to guide students on a path of knowledge and critical thinking about the nature of the topics covered.