Federico Rossi

Federico Rossi is an Associate Professor in Architecture and Digital Manufacturing at London South Bank University's Architecture Digital x Data Research Centre. As the founding director of the Digital Architecture and Robotic Lab (DARLAB), he leads research at the intersection of digital fabrication, robotics, and sustainable construction. His work spans both academic and industry applications, with collaborations including Volkswagen, Astana Energy Expo, Ars Electronica, SCM Group, Veolia, Dyson, and Southwark Council.

Rossi graduated from the Architectural Association in London and previously worked with Dame Zaha Hadid focusing on digital manufacturing processes in construction. His expertise has been recognized through significant research funding, including a £400k HEFCE grant for establishing DARLAB in 2013, a KEEP+ grant from EU Horizon 2020 in 2018, and EPSRC UKMSN+ funding in 2021 for the SCRAM project (Sustainable Construction through Robotic Additive Manufacturing).

Rossi's research focuses on computational design, Design for Additive Manufacturing, circular manufacturing, and large-scale reinforced polymer structures. His work explores how robotics and automation can overcome traditional constraints in the AEC industry by integrating digital workflows directly with the design process. Recent projects include collaboration with the European Space Agency on 3D printed planetary habitats using recycled polymers, and research on circular cementitious products and modular interlocking bricks in Nigeria and the UK.

Analysis of Rossi's publication record reveals a strong trajectory toward sustainable construction solutions using advanced manufacturing techniques. His recent work demonstrates increasing focus on circular economy principles, recycled materials (particularly polymers and glass), and international collaboration (especially between the UK and Nigeria). The integration of machine learning and topology optimization with robotic manufacturing represents an emerging trend in his research.

• Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts
• Work exhibited internationally at Salone del Mobile, Wired, Domus, Royal Academy Summer Show, and Italian Trade Agency
• Recipient of multiple research grants including HEFCE, KEEP+, EPSRC UKMSN+, UK Innovate, and Royal Society funding

Rossi serves as an External Examiner for MArch at the University of East London and holds additional responsibilities as Director of DARLAB, Head of Research for the Architecture Division, and Member of the Research and Enterprise Committee. His research grants demonstrate strong industry and government partnerships focused on sustainable construction, circular economy implementation, and advanced manufacturing. Current projects include UK Innovate research for circular cementitious products and Royal Society research on modular interlocking bricks with waste reuse models.

As Director of the Digital Architecture and Robotic Lab (DARLAB), Rossi leads a multidisciplinary team exploring robotic manufacturing applications in architecture. The lab serves as a hub for industry collaboration, with partners including Volkswagen, Dyson, and SCM Group. Current research teams are focused on sustainable construction through robotic additive manufacturing, circular economy implementation in building materials, and international projects addressing waste reuse models in both developed and developing contexts.