Interdisciplinary and Multi-Scalar Design and Research Models in Architectural Practice and Education

A special issue of Architecture (ISSN 2673-8945).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 April 2025 | Viewed by 3644

Special Issue Editors

Huckabee College of Architecture, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79410, USA
Interests: architectural humanities; architectural education; urban history; critical urban studies
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Guest Editor
Huckabee College of Architecture, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79410, USA
Interests: architecture; design computation; architectural robotics; parametric design; 3D printing
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue seeks to delve into innovative approaches that advocate radical inclusivity and foster a collaborative atmosphere in architectural practice and education. The focus lies on interdisciplinary and cross-disciplinary collaboration, with the aim of developing pedagogical strategies and methodological frameworks that encourage equal participation and facilitate collaboration in design processes. We welcome contributions that address various topics related to architectural education and collaborative efforts.

Topics of interest for this Special Issue include, but are not limited to, the following: The concept of inclusivity in architectural education and its implications for teaching and learning practices The role of co-production in shaping design and architectural pedagogy, with a focus on collaborative, design practice and learning environments.

The development and application of collaborative methodological frameworks in architectural practice and education that are aimed at enhancing interdisciplinary communication and teamwork. The integration of digital mapping and augmented reality technologies into research led architectural practice and education, and their potential to revolutionize design practices in multiple scales ranging from innovative material design to critical urban thinking.

The exploration of urban community development and digital mapping in architectural education, investigating the relationship between spatial design and social responsiveness. Incorporating design computation and fabrication techniques into architectural education and practice in order emphasise the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and technological fluency for future architects.

By assembling diverse perspectives and research, this Special Issue aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse on inclusivity and collaborative architectural practice and education, ultimately paving the way for more effective, equitable, and innovative approaches in the field.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

You may choose our Joint Special Issue in Trends in Higher Education.

Dr. Asma Mehan
Dr. Sina Mostafavi
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • interdisciplinary design practices
  • architectural education
  • radical inclusivity
  • interdisciplinary collaboration
  • co-production
  • pedagogical strategies
  • digital mapping
  • augmented reality
  • urban community development
  • design computation
  • fabrication techniques
  • collaborative learning environments
  • spatial design
  • social responsiveness
  • technological fluency
  • AI in architecture and built environment
  • AR/VR mapping
  • gamification

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Published Papers (3 papers)

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Research

23 pages, 6953 KiB  
Article
Interdisciplinary Urban Interventions: Fostering Social Justice Through Collaborative Research-Led Design in Architectural Education
by Asma Mehan and Natalia Dominguez
Architecture 2024, 4(4), 1136-1156; https://doi.org/10.3390/architecture4040059 - 9 Dec 2024
Viewed by 315
Abstract
This study aims to examine how interdisciplinary urban interventions within architectural education can effectively address social justice issues. Motivated by the growing need for inclusive and equitable urban spaces, this research explores the potential of collaborative design and participatory research methods to foster [...] Read more.
This study aims to examine how interdisciplinary urban interventions within architectural education can effectively address social justice issues. Motivated by the growing need for inclusive and equitable urban spaces, this research explores the potential of collaborative design and participatory research methods to foster social awareness and community engagement. Focusing on student-led projects in cities such as Houston, San Diego, and Amsterdam, this study addresses social justice challenges across themes like Art Activism, Tactical Urbanism, environmental justice, and gender equity. Using case study analysis, digital mapping, and poster creation as core methodologies, the research demonstrates the value of multi-scalar, interdisciplinary approaches in tackling complex urban problems. The key findings highlight that integrating these approaches into architectural education promotes critical engagement with social justice issues, equipping students with practical skills for future professional challenges. The implications suggest that expanding this framework to diverse urban contexts could enhance its impact, offering a foundation for further studies on interdisciplinary design as a tool for urban equity. Full article
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15 pages, 5216 KiB  
Article
Analyzing Traditional Building Materials: A Case Study on Repair Practices in Konuralp, Düzce-Türkiye
by Özlem Sallı Bideci and Büşra Sabuncu
Architecture 2024, 4(3), 763-777; https://doi.org/10.3390/architecture4030040 - 19 Sep 2024
Viewed by 758
Abstract
Some wrong decisions and faulty practices applied during the repair and restoration of traditional buildings cause more damage to the structures due to the materials used in the repair. The aim of this study is to establish a scientific basis for material selection [...] Read more.
Some wrong decisions and faulty practices applied during the repair and restoration of traditional buildings cause more damage to the structures due to the materials used in the repair. The aim of this study is to establish a scientific basis for material selection in the repair of traditional buildings in the Konuralp region through chemical and petrographic analyses. In this study, brick, mortar, plaster, and wood samples were taken from one registered building in the Konuralp neighborhood of Düzce Province that has survived to the present day by preserving its original structural features and reflecting the characteristics of traditional housing. Chemical and petrographic analyses were carried out on the samples. In line with these analyses, a scientific basis was created for selecting material properties in the repair and reuse processes of traditional buildings and suggestions are made for the analysis of materials specific to traditional buildings in Konuralp. Full article
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12 pages, 2141 KiB  
Article
Integrating Machine Learning in Urban Pedagogy: Addressing Homelessness in Skid Row
by Taraneh Meshkani
Architecture 2024, 4(1), 112-123; https://doi.org/10.3390/architecture4010008 - 15 Feb 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1398
Abstract
This paper investigates the application of machine learning in urban and architectural education, with a focus on addressing homelessness in Skid Row, Los Angeles. It presents a case study of an urban design studio utilizing data-driven methods to propose transitional housing solutions, emphasizing [...] Read more.
This paper investigates the application of machine learning in urban and architectural education, with a focus on addressing homelessness in Skid Row, Los Angeles. It presents a case study of an urban design studio utilizing data-driven methods to propose transitional housing solutions, emphasizing the importance of design in the context of social justice. The study explores the use of machine learning and digital cartography for a detailed analysis of Skid Row’s dense homeless population, offering students a thorough insight into urban challenges. The research also identifies the complexities involved in integrating these technologies into educational frameworks, including issues with data accuracy, technical hurdles, and ethical considerations. The paper concludes by advocating for an interdisciplinary, data-informed, and socially conscious approach in architectural and urban design education, highlighting its necessity in preparing students to effectively tackle contemporary urban problems. Full article
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