The Digital, Materials and Making (DMM) research laboratory focuses on the premise that contemporary material applications and making processes are integral to future development of architectural practice and the built environment. It employs a multi-faceted digital lens to develop architectural workflows that seek to discover new modes of design, simulation, analysis, fabrication, material engagement and construction that positively contribute to creating a socially and environmentally sustainable built environment.
The agendas of the lab include sheet-based digitally fabricated construction systems for small to medium scale buildings, parametric design, incremental sheet forming, optimising use of Tasmanian timber species and pedagogical approaches to collaborative making, Research outputs focus on the generation of major creative works, engagement through community interventions, impact through material innovation as well as traditional published works. The activities of the lab are underpinned by the prominent and highly visible making infrastructure in the refurbished Workshop building, including large object and small object spaces, 5axis router and robotic arm.