Our research in architecture and the built environment is at the forefront of higher education in Scotland and the UK. The Research Excellence Framework 2014 results revealed that more than 40% of our research is rated as world class (4*). It builds on our department’s pioneering studies of the late 1970s through the work of the Building Performance Research Unit (BPRU) and Architecture and Building Aids Computer Unit (ABACUS).
Our research groups continue to evolve, reflecting emerging issues in architectural design, cultural enquiry, sustainability and urbanism, investigating how design innovation and technology can conserve the environment and transform communities and cities around the world.
Research groups
Sustainability & the built environment
Our research is leading the way to a more sustainable future in response to government, industry and societal needs.
Our areas of expertise include:
- architectural design & conservation
- innovative construction technologies & building information management
- sustainable design & technology
Urbanism & global cities
We're at the forefront of research on how people and cities interact in a rapidly urbanising world.
Our areas of expertise include:
- architecture & urbanism of the global south
- cultural & historical studies
- urban design
Built environment education & architectural pedagogy
This is a cross-cutting theme that involves establishing links between education, civic engagement and professional practice.
We've recently launched the Built Environment Futures (bE Futures) Centre for Doctoral Training. This is a collaborative venture with other engineering departments, aligned with industry and government agencies and engaged with local and global communities.
Architectural design & conservation
We deal with the challenges of conserving built heritage while allowing changes to adapt buildings to contemporary uses. We also deal with the design of new buildings which can contribute to the conservation of our environment.
Architecture & urbanism of the global south
We conduct research relevant to the urban conditions of cities in the global south, exploring aspects of globalisation, authenticity, representation, conservation, and sustainable urbanism.
Built environment education & architectural pedagogy
We explore, experiment and implement alternative approaches for enhancing traditional design teaching practices while strengthening ties with professional practice through practice-based research and research-based practice.
Construction law
We engage in research related to the legalities of the construction process including dispute resolution, regulatory enforcement, professional ethics and corporate corruption.
Cultural & historical studies
We research the political, economic and social history of architecture and cities exploring why and how buildings are produced and used.
Innovative construction technologies & building information management
We evaluate and develop advanced methodologies and approaches for adopting cutting-edge Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) to optimise 'total building performance' and to minimise waste and the environmental impact of construction in cities.
Sustainable design & technology
We direct our research activity towards supporting resilient responses to social, environmental and economic challenges associated with buildings and cities, in both developed and developing countries.
Urban design
Our research pursues an evidence-based understanding of how cities work and develop in time as a matter of sustainable urban planning, combining physical and socio-economic aspects.
