2026 Conference on Computational Design and Robotic Fabrication

For the first time, the CDRF2026 International Conference on Computational Design and Robotic Fabrication (CDRF2026) is coming to Australia. From 8–10 July, our friends at the ARC Centre for Next-Gen Architectural Manufacturing (Arch_Manu) at UNSW Sydney will host three days of research presentations, keynote talks, masterclasses, industry exchange, and international discussion on the future of circular, digitally enabled and robotically fabricated built environments.

Registrations close Monday, 6 July. Don’t miss out!

PROGRAM & REGISTRATION

The architecture, engineering and construction sector is undergoing a dual transformation: the shift towards digitalisation and the urgent transition towards circularity. Yet the integration of these two agendas remains at an early stage.

As one of the largest contributors to global carbon emissions, the built environment sector faces mounting pressure to reduce environmental impact, improve productivity and respond to workforce and supply chain challenges. These issues are intensified by industry fragmentation and the limited pathways available for research-led innovation.

Under the theme Circular Intelligence, CDRF2026 invites researchers, designers, engineers, technologists, fabricators and industry partners to explore how computational design, digital technologies, robotics and advanced manufacturing can support a circular transformation of the built environment.

Hosted by the ARC Centre for Next-Gen Architectural Manufacturing (Arch_Manu) at UNSW Sydney, CDRF2026 brings together an international community to exchange knowledge, prototype ideas and shape the next frontier of a digitally enabled, regenerative construction future.

WHEN & WHERE

8–10 July 2026
In-person
School of Built Environment, UNSW Sydney, Australia

Attend the whole conference, or select your preferred keynote presentation or masterclass.

KEYNOTE CPD PRESENTATIONS

This is a rare opportunity to engage with an exceptional line-up of keynote speakers, addressing some of the most pressing and transformative questions in architectural education and practice. Topics include:

• The Edge of Architecture – Prof Christiane M Herr, Southern University of Science and Technology
• Governing AI by Design – Dr Sue Keay, UNSW AI Institute UNSW
• Creating an Industry–Academic Nexus to Tackle Urgent, Systemic Challenges in the ADE Industry – Kathlyn Loseby, PTW
• Integrative Computational Design and Construction for Transformative Architecture – Achim Menges, Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD) University of Stuttgart
• Mind and Matter: Circular Intelligence in Physical AI for Architecture – Philip F. Yuan, Tongji University

MASTERCLASSES

• MC1: 3D Scanning for Circular Design Workflows
• MC2: Developing Design and Fabrication Strategies and Interfaces for Robotic Timber Machining
• MC3: From Concept to Contour: A Hands-On LFAM Studio
• MC4: Lamina — 3D Concrete Printing Framework and Software for Architecture
• MC5: Structural Form Finding for Circular Skin Design
• MC6: Augmented Reality-Assisted Assembly for Complex Architectural Structures

COST

Whole conference: General registration $300 +GST | Student $150 +GST
(Includes – Access to all the keynote and paper presentation sessions. Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea.)

Each Keynote 1 formal CPD point: General registration $30 +GST | Student $15 +GST
Each Masterclass 3 formal CPD points: General registration $60 +GST | Student $30 +GST

CONTACT

For conference enquiries, please contact the CDRF2026 Organising Committee.

Email: archmanu@unsw.edu.au
Location: UNSW Sydney, Australia