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Architecture & Landscape Architecture Case Study Research
Introduction
Doing case study research?
So, you need to find some case studies? How do you get started? Here are some suggestions:
1. Identify your typology. This could be simple or complex. Begin by thinking in general terms. You may need to search for more than one typology if your project is a combination or hybrid of types or functions.
2. Develop a list of search terms. Try to come up with an extensive list of search terms. Databases use a controlled vocabulary. When you find a resource that appeals to you, check the subject headings in the record and use those terms to find additional similar resources.
3. Search databases that contain your topic. Check out the lists of resources and websites containing case studies on the following sections of this guide. Don't forget to also search the NDSU Libraries catalog, as well as other library catalogs. Tip: Search using "case study" AND the project typology. For example, case study AND performing arts center. Also, use the advanced search in the Avery Index to find illustrations, such as plans, sections, and elevations.
4. Keep track of the information you find. If you'll be using it for your research, you'll need to cite it later. Keep a list of resources with notes, or build your bibliography as you go. That way, when you need to find a particular bit of information later, you'll know where to look.
Find Case Studies
Databases
Art Index Retrospective (H.W. Wilson/EBSCO)
Contemporary art history database provides users with access to over half a century of art literature covering fine, decorative and commercial art dating back to 1913.
Art & Architecture Source (EBSCO)
Full-text articles—as well as detailed indexing and abstracts— International in scope, Art & Architecture Source includes periodicals published in French, Italian, German, Spanish and Dutch and is designed for use by a diverse audience.
Avery Index to Architectural Periodicals (EBSCO)
Published by the Getty Research Institute, is the only comprehensive American guide to the current literature of architecture and design.
GreenFILE (EBSCO)
Multidisciplinary database about the intersection between the environment and disciplines such as agriculture, education, law, health and technology. Topics covered include global climate change, green building, pollution, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, recycling, and more.
Additional Resources Online
Features 40 case studies of sustainable landscapes. U.S. and international projects. The Society's mission is to lead, to educate, and to participate in the careful stewardship, wise planning, and artful design of our cultural and natural environments.
Browse through projects, or enter a project name in the search feature.
Architectural Record’s Building Type Studies are monthly, in-depth analyses of particular kinds of buildings, with photos, drawings, specifications, detailed descriptions, and design solutions.
Some projects require registration to view, which is free.
Database of over 100 projects with quantified landscape benefits (environmental, economic and social).
The Buildings Database is a shared resource for the building industry. The Database, developed by the U.S. Department of Energy and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), is a unique central repository of in-depth information and data on high-performance, green building projects across the United States and abroad.
Emporis collects information about buildings worldwide. The website covers technical information on all kinds of buildings, whether skyscrapers, high-rises, halls, etc. The database contains different construction types such as office, residential or lodging. Different usages are also recorded such as hotels, schools or police stations, to name just a few.
Database of over 8,000 LEED projects. Sort or search by project, location, owner organization, and certification level. Approximately 150 of the projects include case study details.
Contains over 42,000 projects, with browsing, searching, and other filtering options available. "Our aim is to collaboratively archive the world's built environment. OpenBuildings was founded by architects and architecture fanatics who became increasingly frustrated by the lack of online resources for learning about architecture and finding companies to work with. Until now this has been a difficult and fragmented experience, with no single destination offering a complete resource."
Project for Public Spaces (PPS) is a nonprofit planning, design and educational organization dedicated to helping people create and sustain public spaces that build stronger communities. Focuses on all major forms of public spaces: parks, transportation, markets, downtowns, civic centers, multi-use, campuses, squares, and waterfronts. Includes an image database of nearly one million images of public spaces. Also, browse nearly 200 public space projects.
The Skyscraper Center, maintained and updated by the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat, is the premier source for accurate, reliable information on tall buildings around the world.
The site seeks to provide a detailed "profile page" for every tall building existing internationally, as well of thousands of projects in various stages of development. Each profile page hosts images, facts, project team information, news and related links about the project.
ULI Case Studies showcase innovative approaches and best practices in real estate and urban development. Each case study provides detailed information about the ideas, plans, performance, and lessons learned for an exemplary and often award-winning development project. Each also includes project facts, timelines, financial data, site plans, and photos.
Get Help
Lisa Eggebraaten
Research and Access Librarian, Klai Juba Wald Architectural Studies Library and the Business Learning Center
310 Klai | 701.231.8462