ACAW 2024

Now in its ninth year, the Architectural Ceramic Assemblies Workshop (ACAW) is a hands-on research and development event for teams of architects and façade engineers to explore the use of terra cotta in high-performance façade design. ACAW brings together professionals from the architectural industry and academia, allowing participants to develop innovative building solutions and further their understanding of architectural terra cotta and how to incorporate the material using its best characteristics.

The University at Buffalo’s School of Architecture and Planning had the pleasure of hosting this annual 4-day workshop. Teams utilized the school’s cutting-edge facilities to build mockups and present their innovative research to an esteemed audience of architects, designers, and industry leaders. The professional teams included Arup, Transsolar, Knippers Helbig, TriPyramid,  Ennead Architects, Werner Sobek NY,  Make Architects, Pelli Clarke & Partners, Superkül Architects,  Touzet Studio, Thornton Tomasetti, UNStudio, and Walter P Moore.

Here’s what some of the participants had to say about their experience:

“For me, it was the staff - they are brilliant. Superb; really helpful.” -Alexis Harrison, Arup

“Great access to tools we didn’t expect to need.” - Aida Muhibic, Pelli Clarke & Partners

“People are amazing; it’s very supportive and super organized.” - Michelle Lee, Behnisch Architekten

“Very innovative and open to ideas.” - Dima Othman, Knippers Helbig

“The metalworking tools, the drill press, hand tools – really the range of items [were most beneficial].” - Nick Savage, Superkül

ACAW is sponsored by Boston Valley Terra Cotta, UB’s School of Architecture and Planning, and Carnegie Mellon University. 

Watch the ACAW 2024 team presentations here.