In design, architecture and many other disciplines, Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) fabrication equipment has given designers unprecedented means for executing formally challenging projects directly from the computer. By surpassing the limitations imposed by manufacturing systems based on standardization, the impact of these technologies has fundamentally challenged the paradigm of production, thus opening a wide field of research and experimentation practices and unimaginable design opportunities.

In this new context, :SOHOArchitects has been a leading institution in Russia by incorporating these technologies as part of its research agenda and work environment. With the intention to continue this agenda, in 2011 :SOHOArchitects launched a 2-week intensive research program for individual participants called R-DIGITAL FABRICATION (RDF). Given the successful results of the first edition, reviewed by renowned architects and expressed by both participants and industrial partners, :SOHOArchitects presents RDF 2.0 from Oct 01 to Oct 14, 2012.

The RDF program provides participants with fundamental opportunities:
-Full-Access to CNC technologies
-Direct engagement with INDUSTRIAL PARTNERS
-Work sessions with LEADING EXPERTS in the field of digital production

The RDF program is open to students and professionals who are interested in developing a specific research agenda in the field of digital design and fabrication.

PARTNER COMPANIES
The RDF Program is a unique research program because it is developed as a non-profit partnership between  :SOHOArchitects and a series of well-established industrial partners and companies. The objective of this collaboration is to offer participants the possibility to engage in a professional environment.  Throughout the RDF program, participants will be in direct and close contact with representatives of the companies, thus building up a potential collaboration that may be continued after the program has been completed.

For the second edition of RDF Program in 2012, :SOHOArchitects is setting up a wide variety of partnerships, including material, technology and design-oriented companies.

ACADEMIC STAFF
The academic staff of RDF is composed by a group of permanent advisors and a series of invited guests, who act as external reviewers and give lectures on relevant topics for the development of the projects.

PROGRAM STRUCTURE
The RDF program will be structured for a total duration of 2 weeks. Within the duration of the RDF program, several parallel activities will be proposed and organized, with the objective to provide participants a wider vision on the specific applications of digital production techniques.

For more information, please contact us at London@sohoarchitects.com