Architectural Design Research Articles

XR Experience in Architectural Design Studio Education: A Systematic Literature Review

Pursuing innovative methods in architectural education continually evolves in response to the profession's dynamic and changing demands. Today, Extended Reality (XR) technologies are emerging as powerful tools with the potential to transform design studio education fundamentally. Focusing on "Extended Reality (XR)" rather than individual terms like VR, AR, and MR is due to XR's encompassing nature. Using all realities collectively allows for a comprehensive evaluation of their synergies. Each reality has distinctive capabilities, and their combined use may offer a richer educational experience than focusing on them individually. This study examines the use and impact of XR technologies in architectural design studio education (ADSE), exploring how conventional components can evolve with XR from 2019 to 2024. It highlights XR's influence on design studio education and experiential learning, guiding students, educators, and researchers at the intersection of XR and ADSE. The authors conducted a systematic literature review following the PRISMA (2020) checklist (Page M.J.et al.,2021). Searches in three primary databases resulted in 183 articles. After identifying and removing duplicates, 178 abstracts were reviewed, and full texts were examined. Ultimately, three articles related to “XR Experiences in ADSE" were subjected to detailed analysis. The research found limited studies with the “the impact of the XR in architectural education" keyword. Following the systematic review, three articles remained. These articles were assessed to investigate the use of XR technologies in design studio education. The reviewed articles generally indicated positive outcomes from using XR technologies in one or more components of design studio education.

A New Experience for Integration of Section and Model: A Case Report

Architectural education inherently requires continuity. The transformative power of the world, which people have experienced in the last 5 years with crises such as pandemics and earthquakes, has changed and forced the form, style and tools of this continuity. Architectural design education, which was shaped on the axis of a studio culture, had to cope with the ruptures and transitions of a new phase. This case report aims to convey an experience that brought together the adaptation of face-to-face education of the students after the online education and the section-model practice that the studio tutors have experienced before. Since the study tries to repair the correlations between the continuity, ruptures and transitions of architectural design education, integration of section and model has been re-engaged in the studio. The study group consists of architecture students who switched to online education after the February 2023 earthquakes and started face-to-face education again in the fall semester of 2023/2024. As a result, well-thought models, few experiments on the models and quick transfers to digital programs were revealed as three main tendencies in the studio. In conclusion, the adaptation of the student on the axis of continuity and to reinforce the design productivity, design problem-solving skills and the habit of doing design research tried to provide.

Structural literacy in architectural studio learning

ABSTRACT Architectural education encompasses a multidisciplinary curriculum including design, theory, history, technology, environmental considerations, urban planning, social aspects, and professional practice. This study aims to investigate the extent to which students can effectively integrate structural concepts into architectural design. This examination takes place within the framework of a third-year architectural design studio course, where students advance their design processes with input from architectural design instructors and experts in structural concepts. To facilitate this endeavour, a simple visual screening form was introduced to aid in the learning process. The study utilises a newly generated survey, namely ‘Structural System Control Form’, which is inspired by the rapid visual screening forms, to assess the students’ comprehension of structural concepts during a 14-week architectural design studio. Employing a descriptive and correlational research approach, the study assesses the effectiveness of this integrated strategy in enhancing the students’ understanding of structural principles. The findings revealed a notable development among students who participated in the integrated approach, highlighting the value of feedback and evaluation from instructors versed in construction. Furthermore, the use of simplified structural models in students’ projects improved their understanding of structural concepts and their ability to incorporate them into their architectural representations.

Continuous blood pressure prediction system using Conv-LSTM network on hybrid latent features of photoplethysmogram (PPG) and electrocardiogram (ECG) signals

Continuous blood pressure (BP) monitoring is essential for managing cardiovascular disease. However, existing devices often require expert handling, highlighting the need for alternative methods to simplify the process. Researchers have developed various methods using physiological signals to address this issue. Yet, many of these methods either fall short in accuracy according to the BHS, AAMI, and IEEE standards for BP measurement devices or suffer from low computational efficiency due to the complexity of their models. To solve this problem, we developed a BP prediction system that merges extracted features of PPG and ECG from two pulses of both signals using convolutional and LSTM layers, followed by incorporating the R-to-R interval durations as additional features for predicting systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure. Our findings indicate that the prediction accuracies for SBP and DBP were 5.306 ± 7.248 mmHg with a 0.877 correlation coefficient and 3.296 ± 4.764 mmHg with a 0.918 correlation coefficient, respectively. We found that our proposed model achieved a robust performance on the MIMIC III dataset with a minimum architectural design and high-level accuracy compared to existing methods. Thus, our method not only meets the passing category for BHS, AAMI, and IEEE guidelines but also stands out as the most rapidly accurate deep-learning-based BP measurement device currently available.

Research on Low-Carbon Design and Energy Efficiency by Harnessing Indigenous Resources through BIM-Ecotect Analysis in Hot Climates

In the face of contemporary challenges, such as economic instability, environmental degradation, and the urgent global warming crisis, the imperative of sustainability and energy efficiency has reached unparalleled significance. Sustainability encompasses not only the natural environment, but also extends to our immediate surroundings, including the built structures and the communities they serve. Embracing this comprehensive perspective, we embarked on a mission to conceive and construct a model house that harnesses state-of-the-art energy-efficient technologies. Our goal was to seamlessly integrate these features not only to meet our sustainability objectives, but also to mitigate environmental threats.This model embodies a harmonious fusion of indigenous resources, employing locally sourced stone and employing traditional construction techniques. Through this approach, we achieved significant reductions in carbon emissions and established a framework for passive cooling and heating systems. Moreover, the design is intrinsically attuned to its contextual surroundings, preserving the diverse tapestry of regional architectural styles. This study stands as a testament to the potential of innovative design and technology in shaping a sustainable future. The research employs a multi-dimensional approach, encompassing strategies of architectural design with a traditional planning approach, sustainable material selection, energy efficiency, and life cycle assessment across a diverse set of case studies. Building energy analysis is conducted through the application of BIM (Ecotect), providing insights into how BIM can adapt and thrive in various environments. Key findings underscore that thermal performance, minimizing energy loads, and reducing carbon emissions are pivotal aspects in designating a building as both green and energy efficient.

A Clinical Construct: Research, Experimentation, and Education at the Johns Hopkins Hospital

Background: The Johns Hopkins Hospital, the first U.S. institution to integrate medical education with practice, has served as a critical case study in understanding the evolution of American medical institutions in response to advancements in medical science, education, and technology. However, the role of architecture and design in informing those institutional practices has not been sufficiently explored. Aim: This study examines the intricate interplay between architecture and medicine in the late nineteenth century through a historical analysis of the design, construction, and early operation of the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, focusing on how this interdisciplinary relationship shaped both the hospital’s physical environment and institutional practices. Methods: This paper utilizes historical analysis to investigate the design, construction, and operations of the Johns Hopkins Hospital. By examining primary archival materials, it details how architectural strategies addressed scientific, technological, and educational advancements. Results: The investigation reveals that the hospital’s architecture not only facilitated medical research, experimentation, and education but also embodied a novel blend of scientific inquiry and architectural design. Conclusions: The Johns Hopkins Hospital exemplifies the transformative potential of integrating architectural design with medical science. This case study underscores the enduring significance of interdisciplinary collaboration, offering insights into contemporary practices and the future of hospital design and medical education and practice in academic communities.

BUNNY CODE: INTERACTIVE EDUCATIONAL CODING GAMES FOR KIDS

This paper presents the analysis and design of a prototype system aimed at making coding engaging for individuals of all ages, from primary school students to seasoned learners familiar with the basics of programming. The primary objective is to enhance the accessibility and appeal of coding education across different age groups. The study begins by providing an overview of the Bunny Code project, outlining its scope and objectives. It describes the methodology employed, including the system architecture design, use case diagram, use case narratives, activity diagram, sequence diagram, and the prototype design. The comprehensive analysis and design process are detailed to provide insights into the development of an interactive coding learning platform. In addition to the technical aspects, this paper discusses the results of an online survey conducted to gather perspectives from the target user demographic. By incorporating user feedback into the design process, the study aims to ensure that the prototype system meets the needs and expectations of its intended audience. Ultimately, this research contributes to the field of educational technology by proposing innovative approaches to make coding accessible and engaging for learners of varying age groups. The findings and methodologies outlined in this paper serve as a foundation for the development of interactive and inclusive coding education tools, such as the Bunny Code platform.

Implementing An Innovative Design Charrette: Creating Healing Environments for Clinicians and Patients’ Well-being

Clinicians, staff, patients, and visitors use the healthcare environment, and a deeper understanding of spatial elements that promote their well-being is necessary. However, clinical and academic nursing does not naturally fit within the field of architectural design and planning. A design charrette, an interactive and innovative approach for faculty, staff, and clinicians, offers participants a chance to be creative in merging evidence-based practice with evidence-based design principles to aid in well-being. This educational brief outlines the process and outcomes of spaces that promote well-being and restoration. The design example presented is a restorative space in a clinical unit. We describe the methods of this teaching experience and highlight the application of a design charrette for a clinical unit.

Preliminary architecture design for human-in-the-loop control of robotic equipment in remote handling tasks: Case study on the NEFERTARI project

In this work, we present a general control architecture for robotic systems dedicated to the remote handling of in-vessel components in fusion machines. This control architecture will be tested for the inspection and maintenance of the first wall components of the RFX-mod2 experiment, in the scope of the New Equipment For the Experimental Research and Technological Advancement for the Rfx Infrastructure (NEFERTARI) project. The architecture is split into low-level and high-level layers. The former is used for the low-level control of the robotics systems and to manage safety; the latter is used for the high-level planning and implements several sub-modules, such as a Virtual Reality (VR) environment for the visualisation of the robot’s digital twin. Moreover, an Application Programming Interface (API) is intended to connect the two layers, and the communication between modules and layers is provided by the ROS2 framework. A typical usage of such a framework involves a human operator who is teleoperating the real robot, data from motor encoders are used as inputs for the dynamic model module. This module is used to compute the forward dynamics in real-time, providing an accurate simulation of the robot (digital twin) in the virtual environment.

Enhancing Software Architecture Adaptability: A Comprehensive Evaluation Method

The field of self-adaptive software is becoming increasingly crucial because software has to adapt its behavior at runtime to keep up with dynamic and constantly evolving environments. The ability of software to modify and adjust itself is known as adaptability, which has been acknowledged as an important quality attribute. As software architecture development represents the initial stage of the design process, architectural design has emerged as a critical development activity. The degree to which the architecture can adapt to changes will be the key factor in determining the adaptability of the software ultimately released to users. Existing metrics for software architectural adaptability typically view adaptability as a positive attribute, meaning that any possibility of change in architectural elements is perceived as an improvement in adaptability. However, the application of adaptability that leads to increased costs or complexity can only be seen as a negative attribute. In other words, the side effects brought about solely for the purpose of achieving adaptability are greatly overlooked; that is, the impacts caused by adaptability exhibit both symmetry and asymmetry for software architectural adaptability. On the other hand, the existing measures of adaptability only define it from the perspective of whether a module will change, without considering changes beyond the topological structure under multiple strategies. In this paper, we propose a comprehensive assessment approach to measure software architecture adaptability. Multiple factors are considered, including the number and types of strategies employed, the cost of completing the adaptation, the extent of changes made to the architectural elements, and the overall impact of the adaptation on the architecture. An extended UML (e-UML) component diagram is presented to model software architectural changes under various types of strategies. Finally, an experiment on the znn.com software is conducted to validate the practical feasibility of our proposed method. Our approach can assist software architects in making informed decisions regarding software architecture design options to improve the adaptability and longevity of their software systems.

Ethnomathematical exploration of the Al-Akbar National Mosque Surabaya in picture pattern material for fourth grade elementary mathematics

The Al-Akbar National Mosque in Surabaya was constructed with various forms of buildings and ornaments where ethnomathematics can be studied, particularly for drawing pattern material in fourth-grade elementary school. The objectives of this study are to describe: (1) the ethnomathematical links in the architecture of the Al-Akbar National Mosque, Surabaya, and (2) the material of image patterns for fourth-grade elementary school found in parts of the Al-Akbar National Mosque. This research utilizes qualitative methods with an ethnographic approach and was conducted at the Al-Akbar National Mosque in the Pagesangan area of Surabaya City. The objects studied include parts of the buildings and decorations of the Al-Akbar Mosque. Data collection methods included observation, interviews, and documentation. The results of the study show that (1) the Al-Akbar National Mosque has ethnomathematical relationships evident in its architecture, layout, and decorations. The concept of image patterns at the Al-Akbar National Mosque is found in the main dome, both outer and inner, as well as the outer pyramid dome. These structures demonstrate the concept of enlarged and smaller image patterns. (2) There are mathematical concepts, especially the pattern of enlarging and shrinking images, present in the Al-Akbar National Mosque, Surabaya. In conclusion, this study underscores the significance of ethnomathematics in architectural design and its potential educational applications in elementary school settings.

Personalized Architectural Design Under the Cooperation of Parametric Modeling

Personalized Architectural Design Under the Cooperation of Parametric Modeling

Elaborating and performing optimization approaches for web-based 3D spatial analysis of 3D city models

ABSTRACT Three-dimensional (3D) geographic information systems (GIS) are vital for urban planning and architectural design, enabling detailed visualization and analysis of urban landscapes. However, the growing size of 3D city data and the transition to web environments cause performance challenges for real-time applications. This study addresses the need for optimizing 3D spatial analyses for the web using Quadtree data structures and multiprocessing tools. Optimization scenarios based on data size and hardware configurations are evaluated, and the best hosting plans for GIS applications on cloud services are also considered.

Digital occupancy assessment for lighting evaluation: a pilot study to prepare for real-time research results

The relationship between lighting and human well-being is pivotal in architecture and environmental design. Adequate lighting enhances visual appeal and significantly influences occupant comfort, productivity, and satisfaction. This pilot study aimed to integrate digital occupancy assessment methods to understand indoor lighting conditions' impact on occupant well-being. Hypotheses explored the potential link between lighting conditions and occupant well-being, as assessed through physiological indicators and the influence of interior attributes on occupants' perceptions and physiological responses. The identified main components were satisfaction with artificial and daylighting, ambiance, and stimulation. The study explored the relationship between lighting conditions, physiological responses, and subjective assessments, revealing potential influences on occupant perceptions. A real-time data visualization could be valuable for data-intensive projects, enhancing comprehension and decision-making for facility management. While limited by the small sample size, trends, and moderate correlations were observed, indicating the need for larger, more diverse samples in future research.

Data Mining Forecasting Methods for Predicting the Availability of Sustainable Rice Commodities in Bali Province

This research aims to prepare the capacity of local governments to provide sufficient strategic food production, especially rice, which is the commodity most consumed by the people of Gianyar Regency every year. This research is descriptive research with a quantitative approach. The data used in the analysis is secondary data in the form of rice production data (tons), rice production (tons), harvested area (ha), public consumption of rice commodities (kg) and population (people) from 2018 to 2022. obtained from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) and the Bali Province Agriculture and Food Security Service. The results of this research show that the forecasting method using the Backpropagation algorithm can be used to provide an approach to forecasting rice harvest area, rice production, rice production, community consumption levels, and population in 2023 and 2024 in Gianyar Regency. The Backpropagation architectural design uses 12 input layers, 10 hidden layers, and 1 output with Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) results of 0.22 and Mean Absolute Deviation (MAD) of 339 with a very good forecasting category. The average ratio of normative per capita consumption to food availability, especially rice commodities in Gianyar Regency in 2023 will experience a high deficit condition with a Cnorm Ratio value (z) = 1.52 and in 2024 will experience a high deficit condition with a Cnorm Ratio value (z) = 1.57. The forecasting method using the Backpropagation Algorithm can still be developed by focusing on each district by calculating the overall food commodities in that district.

Challenges and Opportunities of Using Metaverse Tools for Participatory Architectural Design Processes

Participatory design emerges as a proactive approach involving different stakeholders in design and decision-making processes, addressing diverse values and ensuring outcomes align with users’ needs. However, the inadequacy of engaging stakeholders with a spatial experience can result in uninformed and, consequently, unsuccessful design solutions in a built environment. This paper explores how metaverse tools can help enhance participatory design by providing new collaborative opportunities via networked 3D environments. A hybrid format (online and in situ) co-creation process was documented and analysed, targeting public space design in London, Hong Kong, and Lisbon. The participants collaborated to address a set of design requirements via a tailored metaverse space, following a six-step methodology (Tour, Discuss, Rate, Define, Action, and Show and Tell). The preliminary results indicated that non-immersive metaverse tools help strengthen spatial collaboration through user perspective simulations, introducing novel interaction possibilities within design processes. The technology’s still-existing technical limitations may be tackled with careful engagement design, iterative reviews, and participants’ feedback. The experience documented prompts a reflection on the role of architects in process design and mediating multi-stakeholder collaboration, contributing to more inclusive, intuitive, and informed co-creation.

A strategy for reducing construction waste generated during the design process in architectural design firms in Egypt

Purpose This paper aims to develop and validate a strategy for reducing construction waste (CW) generated during the design process (DP) in architectural design firms (ADFs) in Egypt. Design/methodology/approach Qualitative and quantitative research methodology was designed to accomplish four objectives. The literature review investigated DP, CW, waste management (WM) and WM strategies (WMS). Three case studies were analysed to investigate the role of WMS towards reducing CW during DP. A survey questionnaire was conducted with a representative sample of ADFs in Egypt to assess their perception and application of WMS during DP. Lastly, a strategy was developed and validated to reduce CW generated during DP. Findings Through literature review, the research identified the highest 40 causes of CW during the DP and classified them into 13 categories. Despite early promotion of WMS to reduce CW at its source, Egypt and other countries with similar construction market characteristics lack laws and regulations to address CW during the DP, with current codes primarily focusing on post-occurrence issues. In addition, analysis of three case studies showed that CW was reduced by adopting WMS during the DP. Findings of data analysis revealed that ADFs have an average knowledge of WMS and a low awareness of Egyptian laws and WMS during DP. “Prefabrication” was the highest-ranked strategy for CW reduction during DP. Several challenges hamper the implementation of WMS. The “preparation and briefing” was ranked the most common design stage where CW causes occur, while “waiting” was ranked the most common form of CW. These findings informed the research outcome and helped in the development of the proposed strategy. Research limitations/implications The proposed strategy was developed taking into account the results of the survey questionnaire which was conducted in ADFs in Egypt where the authors reside, and such a strategy is needed. However, it could be applied in other countries that share the same characteristics of the architectural DP as well as the causes of CW and WMS implementation challenges. Practical implications This research presents a practical strategy to reduce CW generated during the DP. It was based on the findings of literature review, case studies and survey questionnaire. The strategy was explained in a workable way to include the required activities; tools and techniques; involved personnel and needed resources. The strategy was validated by a representative sample of ADFs in Egypt to ensure its practicability and viability for implementation towards developing a sustainable built environment. The practical application of the strategy will have long-term and short-term benefits. The long-term benefits include improving the social, economic and environmental aspects of sustainability during the design and construction phases in Egypt. In the short term, application of the strategy will improve the cooperation between design and construction teams, reduce the negative impact of CW production and enhance the quality of construction projects in Egypt. Originality/value Despite the need to reduce CW during DP, a practical strategy is lacking in Egypt, where laws are focused on dealing with CW after its existence. This research studied a topic that received scant attention in construction literature. It developed and validated a strategy to reduce CW during DP, which represents a synthesis that is novel and creative in thought and adds value in a manner that has not been previously explored.

Interactive search-based Product Line Architecture design

Interactive search-based Product Line Architecture design

Interactive search-based Product Line Architecture design

Interactive search-based Product Line Architecture design

TRANSFORMING MEDELLÍN: ARCHITECTURE AND URBAN DESIGN AS AGENTS OF SOCIAL CHANGE

This article examines the transformative impact of Sergio Fajardo’s mayoral administration (2003–2007) in Medellín, Colombia, focusing on architecture and urban design projects that have promoted equity. Central to this urban renaissance was the Proyecto Urbano Integral (PUI) Nororiental, which revitalized informal settlements in the city’s northeastern zone. The initiative leveraged financing from Empresas Públicas de Medellín (EPM), a city-owned utility company, ensuring sustainable investment in public works without reliance on international loans. This financial model enabled the redistribution of funds to Medellín’s poorest neighborhoods, fostering transparency and combating corruption. Key to this urban strategy was the involvement of the Empresa de Desarrollo Urbano (EDU) which implemented the PUI with an intersectional planning approach combining public transit, education, culture, recreation, health, and safety initiatives. The PUI emphasized community participation through “Imaginary Workshops” promoting ownership and engagement among residents. The PUI Nororiental, enhanced by the Metrocable transit system and associated public spaces, has successfully integrated isolated neighborhoods while reducing violence and fostering social cohesion. Despite critiques of high costs, this article argues that quality public spaces and civic buildings promote community pride and destigmatization. Medellín’s “social urbanism” serves as a model for addressing inequity in Latin America and the broader Global South, demonstrating how architecture and urban design can drive social change.