Prof. FINGRUT, Adam
Assistant Professor
MArch (UCLA)
BArch (Carleton)
3943 3707
adam.fingrut@cuhk.edu.hk
Introduction
Adam Fingrut is an Assistant Professor and researcher in architecture at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), with a teaching and research focus on computation, fabrication, and construction systems. He received his Master of Architecture from the University of California, Los Angeles and his Bachelor of Architecture from Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada. He teaches graduate-level design studios, undergraduate lectures, and electives across both streams in computational design and architectural technology.
Adam’s research focuses on understanding how new technology can innovate design, fabrication, and construction methods in architecture, channelled through publications, articles, workshops, installations, and creative construction works such as the Yard of Environmental Sustainability (YES) and the ZCB Bamboo Pavilion. He is also the Co-Director of the Centre of Robotic Construction and Architecture (CRCA) at CUHK, a collaborative research platform with the Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering (MAE), which explores the use of advanced design and robotics for innovative architecture.
Adam has developed an innovative teaching pedagogy with his architecture students. His teaching demonstrates how emerging technology is integral to design thinking by exposing students to a process of discovery learning. Tools are introduced to stimulate an iterative design and problem-solving approach, where a cycle of action, observation, reflection and reaction can be applied to an architectural problem. Adam continues to receive grants and develop workshops that give students access to advanced architectural tools and techniques.
Over the past 15 years, Adam has gained professional experience working with international practices in Hong Kong, China, the US and Canada, most recently with Zaha Hadid Architects and the Laboratory for Exploratory Architecture and Design (LEAD) as Design Director. His practical experience in the Hong Kong construction industry is an integral component of his approach toward teaching and research.
Research Interests
Computational Design and Problem Solving for Architecture
Publications
Building Indeterminacy Modelling – Computational Design and Low-Tech Construction of a Hong Kong Bamboo Gridshell. Adam Fingrut & Kristof Crolla
Protocol of Error – The Design and Construction of a bending-active gridshell from natural bamboo. Adam Fingrut & Kristof Crolla
Research Projects
ZCB Bamboo Pavilion, 2014-2015, funded by External Research Contract. Co-Investigator with Kristof Crolla (PI)
Advised Theses
IP Chue Chun, Antonia, “Mixing Age: Redefining the Geriatric Centre by Bringing the Young and Old Together,” 2016-17
IP Wai Kei, Pinky, “An Integrated Learning Environment: Early Childhood Development Architecture in Hong Kong,” 2016-17
NGO Po Sum, Carmen, “Social Integration: Enhance the Public Engagement between Street Sleepers and Local Community,” 2016-17