Architectural Research@NDSU

Abstract

Architectural research is different from basic or applied research, in that design processes are involved as part of the research. Architectural research attempts to solve a research problem, answer a research question, or address a design issue, using designs as the vehicle for the inquiry. The instruments of the research are often drawings, animations, models, simulations and other design artifacts. The researcher attempts to solve a design problem, answer a research question, or address a design issue, using these design artifacts as research instruments.

The Architectural Research Studio is a viable curricular offering in a professional, graduate, accredited curriculum in Architecture. It provides the benefits of boosting research productivity in a department, strengthening ties with architectural firms that have an alumni presence, providing career networking opportunities for graduate students, generating valuable intellectual property, fostering research careers, and adding to the knowledge base of the Architecture profession. The all-around benefits far outweigh the challenges that have to be overcome in offering this studio.