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![The Cubeix system integrates user requirements with real-time environmental data to generate optimized spatial layouts. Backend computation and modular assembly, abandoned interiors are rapidly transformed into functional, low-carbon workspaces.]()
![Cubeix works on two levels: first, generating global spatial layouts informed by environmental data; second, designing modular components optimized for assembly, adaptability, and reuse.]()
![Multi-parameter analyses of daylight, airflow, noise, connectivity, and view potential form the foundation of Cubeix. These inputs drive decisions in spatial arrangement and module placement.]()
![Cubeix’s computational engine reconstructs spatial conditions, integrates environmental simulations, and generates optimized layouts through algorithmic processes.]()
![A genetic algorithm processes environmental layers, balancing user requirements with site-specific conditions. Continuous feedback enables iterative improvement of spatial outcomes.]()
![Different spatial conditions generate diverse component arrangements. Modules are placed according to performance needs, producing flexible and varied interior landscapes.]()
![Iterations explored form, material, and connection strategies. Through optimization, each module achieves balance between efficiency, adaptability, and durability.]()
![A digital application provides an end-to-end design and ordering platform. Users configure layouts directly from their device, shortening design-to-assembly time.]()
![The Cubeix application allows real-time spatial visualization. Users preview retrofit options through an intuitive interface connected to backend analysis.]()
![The dashboard lets users adjust module types and positions, balancing cost, performance, and aesthetics. It ensures every configuration is user-driven.]()
![Cubeix integrates ecological modules, such as ventilation, daylight access, and green components, turning retrofitted interiors into healthier, more sustainable environments.]()
![Cubeix modules were prototyped using casting with 3D-printed molds, fully 3D-printed components, and optimized workflows to compare efficiency and scalability.]()
![Optimized G-code strategies improved fabrication by minimizing material use and increasing precision. Layer thickness, print speed, and toolpaths were fine-tuned for efficiency.]()
![Modular joints employ magnetic, interlocking, and rotational systems. These ensure seamless assembly, stability, and flexibility across varying configurations.]()
![Dedicated modules embed water, electricity, and gas systems into the Cubeix grid. Infrastructure is simplified, allowing plug-and-play functionality during retrofit.]()
![Cubeix modules aggregate into diverse compositions. Configurations adapt to user needs, transforming abandoned interiors into dynamic, multi-functional environments.]()
![Tests revealed full 3D printing as the most precise and scalable fabrication method. Casting with experimental materials remains valuable for future sustainable research.]()
![Cubeix redefines derelict infrastructures as latent urban resources. By combining modularity, computation, and circular fabrication, it establishes a scalable model for adaptive and sustainable reuse.]()
Cubix
Project details
Programme
Cluster
RC5
Year
1
Cubeix is a modular retrofit system that transforms underused interiors into low-carbon, adaptable workspaces through reconfigurable components and data-driven layout generation. Rather than altering the host envelope, Cubeix deploys interior modules—base frames, wall panels, lighting, storage, services, and window units—assembled by dry, reversible joints to enable rapid customisation and reuse.
A backend computation pipeline integrates five environmental layers—daylight, airflow, noise, connectivity, and view potential—to weight spatial desirability and produce optimised layouts; a genetic algorithm refines furniture placement and updates results with user feedback. Prototyping progressed from 3D-printed molds with experimental materials to fully 3D-printed parts and time/strength optimisation of reinforcement logic, balancing precision, speed, and cost for scalable fabrication.
A UI/UX platform links this engine with user flows, allowing on-device configuration and preview of spatial outcomes. Together, Cubeix establishes a practical path for circular, performance-led interior retrofits.
Students
- Wenjie Wang Year 1
- Yiwen Jiang Year 1
- Yongchang Xu Year 1
- Zilu Wang Year 1
Brief Introduction of Cubeix
Brief Introduction of Cubeix
Buildings are responsible for more than 1/3 of global carbon emissions, with outdated infrastructure causing severe energy loss and spatial inefficiency. Cubeix proposes a modular retrofit system, offering adaptable solutions for future environments.
Cubeix Workflow
The Cubeix system integrates user requirements with real-time environmental data to generate optimised spatial layouts. Backend computation and modular assembly, abandoned interiors are rapidly transformed into functional, low-carbon workspaces.
Design Strategy
Cubeix works on two levels: first, generating global spatial layouts informed by environmental data; second, designing modular components optimised for assembly, adaptability, and reuse.
Spatial Analysis
Multi-parameter analyses of daylight, airflow, noise, connectivity, and view potential form the foundation of Cubeix. These inputs drive decisions in spatial arrangement and module placement.
Backend System
Cubeix's computational engine reconstructs spatial conditions, integrates environmental simulations, and generates optimised layouts through algorithmic processes.
Machine Learning & Data Processing
A genetic algorithm processes environmental layers, balancing user requirements with site-specific conditions. Continuous feedback enables iterative improvement of spatial outcomes.
Component Variation
Different spatial conditions generate diverse component arrangements. Modules are placed according to performance needs, producing flexible and varied interior landscapes.
Component Design
Iterations explored form, material, and connection strategies. Through optimisation, each module achieves balance between efficiency, adaptability, and durability.
Cubeix Digital Application
A digital application provides an end-to-end design and ordering platform. Users configure layouts directly from their device, shortening design-to-assembly time.
User Interface & Experience
The Cubeix application allows real-time spatial visualisation. Users preview retrofit options through an intuitive interface connected to backend analysis.
Customisation Dashboard
The dashboard lets users adjust module types and positions, balancing cost, performance, and aesthetics. It ensures every configuration is user-driven.
Sustainable Features
Cubeix integrates ecological modules, such as ventilation, daylight access, and green components, turning retrofitted interiors into healthier, more sustainable environments.
Manufacturing
Cubeix modules were prototyped using casting with 3D-printed molds, fully 3D-printed components, and optimised workflows to compare efficiency and scalability.
3D Printing
Optimised G-code strategies improved fabrication by minimising material use and increasing precision. Layer thickness, print speed, and tool-paths were fine-tuned for efficiency.
Connections
Modular joints employ magnetic, interlocking, and rotational systems. These ensure seamless assembly, stability, and flexibility across varying configurations.
Assembly Demonstration
Assembly Demonstration
Modules combine into complete assemblies, from desks and chairs to partitions and meeting areas. The same kit scales across furniture and interior systems.
Service Integration
Dedicated modules embed water, electricity, and gas systems into the Cubeix grid. Infrastructure is simplified, allowing plug-and-play functionality during retrofit.
Component Aggregation
Cubeix modules aggregate into diverse compositions. Configurations adapt to user needs, transforming abandoned interiors into dynamic, multi-functional environments.
Comparative Manufacturing Results
Tests revealed full 3D printing as the most precise and scalable fabrication method. Casting with experimental materials remains valuable for future sustainable research.
CUBEIX Vision
Cubeix redefines derelict infrastructures as latent urban resources. By combining modularity, computation, and circular fabrication, it establishes a scalable model for adaptive and sustainable reuse.
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Autumn Show 2025
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