Home / Facilities
ISTAR & the Vitruvius FabLab
A research environment where digital heritage, computational design and CNC fabrication meet — hosted by ISTAR-Iscte and the Vitruvius FabLab at the Iscte University Institute of Lisbon.
Working domains
Digital Heritage Research
Documentation, analysis and computational reading of architectural ornament and cultural patterns.
Computational Design
Parametric and algorithmic workflows for generative ornament and pattern systems.
CNC Fabrication
Subtractive CNC relief workflows in timber, cork and composite materials at the Vitruvius FabLab.
Digital Modelling
3D reconstruction, mesh processing and digital twin construction.
Workshop Environment
Seminar space, presentation facilities and collaborative working areas for interdisciplinary teams.
Fabrication Support
CNC workflow coordination, material preparation and production timing with Vitruvius FabLab staff.
From scan to toolpath
The workshop moves through a connected pipeline of industry and research software — each tool mapped to a stage of the transformation.
| Stage | Primary tools |
|---|---|
| Capture & Documentation | 3D scanning, photogrammetry, UAV survey, reference imaging |
| Digital Twin | Rhinoceros, Blender |
| Computational Reinterpretation | Grasshopper, Rhinoceros, Photoshop |
| Fabrication Preparation | CAD/CAM, toolpath & CAM logic |
| Production | CNC-based relief fabrication (Vitruvius FabLab) |
Join the reinterpretation of heritage
Places are limited to a maximum of 15 participants. Register your interest to receive the call for participants, eligibility details and the full programme.