Armand Agraviador

Armand is a research assistant with the Responsible Interactions theme at the HBBE. He is involved in developing projects around the _OME experimental building with a particular focus on supporting the design and fabrication of the BioKnit Composite, Healing Masonry and BioMateriOME prototypes. His research investigates the architectural potential of integrating these prototypes' novel technologies into the built environment.

Prior to joining Newcastle University, Armand has worked in several architectural practices across a range of project scales from furniture to master plans. During his time in industry he specialised in building information modelling and computational design, and has utilised his skills to incorporate biological concepts to structure and facade. He has worked on several large-scale infrastructure projects including an airport and rail terminus, but has had particular enjoyment in working with heritage buildings and distilleries.

Armand's master’s degree focused on using visual programming to emulate anatomical structures and systems for a BioFabrication Laboratory, and to create ecologically sensitive facades for a community-owned hydroelectric project exploring energy futures. His dissertation looked at historical urbanism approaches in Metro Manila and its effect on the urban poor and informal settlements. His works have been exhibited in the UK and China and has earned him a prize in environmental sciences from Sheffield University and a sustainability award from Tongji University.