General Description
Study of the influence of digtial media in the architectural design process, focusing on (1) the interface between analog and digital systems of architectural making and thinking; and (2) the new representation modes that imply a significant break from traditional architectural depiction and communication (i.e., animation, multimedia, video capture and image manipulation, VRML models, Internet communication). This project aims at recognizing new and potentially rich theoretical and operative areas of architectural practice.

The A-D Studio
The Analog-Digital Design Studio is an open laboratory to explore, reflect and act on the implications of the media revolution which are deeply transforming our civilization and architecture. The studio utilizes the interface of analog and digital media as the vehicle to address, study, and advance contemporary cultural and architectural discourses. The goal of the studio is to develop not only a theoretical and procedural foundation for a diverse utilization of media in architectural practice but also essential attitudes, awareness and skills for succeeding in today’s media driven civilization and professions.

Pedagogic Research
Teaching and researching are based on play and interpretation that are implemented by (1) establishing a simple yet strict framework within which playing may occur, and (2) defining interpretive iterations through progressive media shifts. This methodology fosters (A) a progressive realization of the relationship between different media and thus an understanding of their differences and strengths; (B) an experimental and exploratory attitude towards learning new technologies; and (C) continuous translations and reformulations of what is being developed, thus deepening and advancing the design process. Finally, the Analog-Digital Design Studio also attempts to (D) develop and test new design methods and media techniques that are directly applicable to architectural practice and education at large (research objective), and (E) build and teach the theoretical links between media, design process and contemporary civilization (theory development objective).

A-D Workshops
A series of short courses applying these principles were offered around the country and abroad between 1996 and 2004. These included collaborative efforts between Professors Bennett Neiman (currently at Texas Tech University), Tom Fowler (CalPoly SLO) and myself.

Examples
Comprehensive A-D Studio (2004) (Bermudez & Neiman)
A-D Studio Pedagogy (summary)
1998 AIA Education Honors Award (Neiman & Bermudez)
Sample of A-D Design Studios (English & Español)