In a complex-structured city in which the interactions among parts intensify; in which the number of decision makers and cultural scenarios overlap, interconnect, and sometimes collide; in which the temporal dimensions of the citizens are dissimilar; in which local and global, physical and virtual dimensions co-exist, it is necessary to identify a set of design tools which could respond to design complexity. The Non Linear Solutions Unit focus on the development of a conceptual methodology that respond creatively to the complexity of today’s cities: a polyhedral lens to approach multidisciplinary projects.

The interdisciplinary lab NSU, inherits its design methodology from cognitive science and particularly from John Holland’s work in the field of complex adaptive system. The combinatorial method has permitted NSU to work on concrete case studies in collaboration with other research labs and professional firms developing several interdisciplinary projects such as Formal Modulation for Acoustic Performance developed with the Cresson Laboratoire France (research selected best paper by American Research Centers Consortium), Prototyping the City - Torino World Design Capital, Robustness in Power Network Grids developed with the Santa Fe Institute, Onion Pinch Baroque Counterpoise (presented at the New York and Chicago Architecture and Design Film Festival, Roof Top Film Festival) and The Social Cave, an interactive installation for the 50^th Anniversary of the Milano Furniture Fair.

News:

• Social Cave Honor Guest to the special project 50 + 50 designing the future, Milano Furniture Fair 2011
• Baroque Couterpoise will be presented at the Architecture and Design Film Festival