The objective of this article is to evaluate the viability of implementing the Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) methodology in the design and construction of complex wooden structures with non-standard geometry. The present study incorporates an analysis of scientific literature from 2011 to 2024, in addition to selected case studies of buildings constructed using glued laminated timber and engineered wood prefabrication technology. The selection of examples was based on a range of criteria, including geometric complexity, the level of integration of digital tools (BIM, CAM, parametric design), and the efficiency of assembly processes. The implementation of DfMA principles has been shown to result in a reduction in material waste by 15–25% and a reduction in assembly time by approximately 30% when compared to traditional construction methods. The findings of the present study demonstrate that the concurrent integration of design, production, and assembly in the timber construction process enhances energy efficiency, curtails embodied carbon emissions, and fosters the adoption of circular economy principles. The analysis also reveals key implementation barriers, such as insufficient digital skills, lack of standardization, and limited availability of prefabrication facilities. The article under scrutiny places significant emphasis on the pivotal role of DfMA in facilitating the digital transformation of timber architecture and propelling sustainable construction development in the context of the circular economy. The conclusions of the study indicate a necessity for further research to be conducted on quantitative life cycle assessment (LCA, LCC) and on the implementation of DfMA on both a national and international scale.

This article examines the modernisation of higher education buildings. It includes a literature review of scientific works on the subject. The recently developed concept project for the modernisation of the Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW) Water Centre building in Warsaw contained a wide range of works encompassing large-scale interventions involving remodelling, renovation, reconstruction and expansion of the existing building. The aim of the article is to examine the possibilities of adapting and optimising both the interior and exterior space through the use of contemporary, computer-aided design methods and incorporating sustainable development aspects. The research hypothesis is that a holistic approach to modernisation, integrating various industries and technologies, can significantly improve the functionality, energy efficiency, and accessibility of the building, and improve the development of the surrounding area. The research method adopted is a review of current literature on the topic and a case study of the Water Centre project on the SGGW campus in Warsaw. The results of the case study analysis indicate a number of problems related to the existing infrastructure and opportunities for improvement through the implementation of a design concept that takes into account the sustainable development goals (SDGs). The conclusions of the paper emphasise the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and a comprehensive approach that considers economic, social, and environmental aspects when modernising buildings with complex functions, which can contribute to improving the quality of space and meeting the needs of various user groups.

In response to the growing interest in sustainable and material-efficient architectural solutions, this study focuses on innovative applications of engineered timber in lightweight structural systems. It investigates the material optimization and structural performance of engineered timber thin-shell structures through an integrated parametric design approach. The study compares three prefabricated, panelized building systems, gridshell, segmented full-plate shell, and ribbed shell, to evaluate their efficiency in terms of material intensity, stiffness, and geometric behavior. Using Rhinoceros and Grasshopper environments with Karamba3D, Kiwi3D, and Kangaroo plugins, a comprehensive parametric workflow was developed that integrates geometric modeling, structural analysis, and material evaluation. The results show that segmented ribbed shell and two segmented gridshell variants offer up to 70% reduction in material usage compared with full-plate segmented timber shells, with hybrid timber shells achieving the best balance between stiffness and mass, offering functional advantages (roofing without additional load). These findings highlight the potential of parametric and computational design methods to enhance both the environmental efficiency (LCA) and digital fabrication readiness of timber-based architecture. The study contributes to the ongoing development of computational timber architecture, emphasizing the role of design-to-fabrication strategies in sustainable construction and the digital transformation of architectural practice.

Article explores the aspect of massing of building form as a sustainable strategy in architectural design for maximizing climate resilience of buildings and urban environments. It includes research results on climate related factors influencing the shape, spatial form and material selection during the early architectural design stage of buildings which contribute to mitigation global climate change. The outcomes of the analysis were used to formulate the assumptions of the functional and utility program for buildings designed as sustainable and climate-resistant. The research resulted in the formulation of a set of guidelines for the expected functional and investment program supporting the climate resilience of the designed buildings. Climate resilience can be achieved by architectural design based on environmental research enhancing structural and energy performance. This translates into directions and areas of development for the integrated design process and sustainable construction practices, formulated as conclusions.

Creation of modern architecture in accordance with the precepts of sustainable development requires an integrated and synergistic design for both new-built and refurbished buildings. The buildings should demonstrate not only the aesthetics, functionality and durability but also have harmless impact on the environment, be effective in material and energy consumption and take into account any risk factors from the point of view of human life and health. Wood, one of the oldest construction materials used by man is present in the built environment from the beginning of the history of architecture. Modernism was characterized by the gradual displacement of wood by other building materials: ceramics, concrete and steel. Physical properties, ease of shaping and effortless process of production, combined with the exceptional ecological potential of wood make wooden structures are widespread again after a period of relative contraction. Creating complex forms in the contemporary architecture and the development of digital design tools coupled with computer technology and CNC woodworking give designers new possibilities for shaping architectural forms. Curvilinear architecture (free form design) rejects Cartesian geometry and conventional language of Euclidean shapes. This article analyzes architectural structures characterized by curvilinear forms and the use of wood as a building material of construction.