Architectural Practice Research Articles

Modern requirements for energy-efficient renovation of historical buildings

Мodern urban development trends includes the importance of taking historical buildings into account when implementing sustainable development strategies. Energetic modernization of historical buildings has both economic and social benefits. Buildings of historical importance often do not correspond to the requirements of modern directives, but the use of certain technical means and architectural practices allows to achieve a significant increase in energy potential. Energy-efficient renovation of historic buildings is an important component in the formation of future smart cities, since historic buildings themselves connect society with the heritage of the past and represent local and historical features of the city and its inhabitants. At the same time, the relevance of the problem is related to the insufficient systematization of data and information resources along with the constant development of tools for diagnosis and assessment of potential changes when working with historical buildings according to their characteristics. The main modern requirements for energy-efficient renovation of historical buildings, as well as the stages of analysis of the characteristics of historical buildings, and the further formation of the renovation strategy and the selection of appropriate methods and measures are considered. Considered limitations and features of the renovation of historic buildings (general engineering limitations due to the historical context, specific characteristics of a specific building, design limitations).

Exploring Digital Visualization Methods in Urban Public Building Space Design

Digital technology has driven the innovation of architectural design methods and tools, applying digital techniques to allow greater possibilities for more innovative and scientific design of public building spaces. This article first analyzes the characteristics of digital visualization and its advantages in the design of urban public building spaces, including aspects such as visualizing three-dimensional expression, rational analysis of building space, Virtual Reality Experience, and integration of design and construction processes. Subsequently, by introducing digital design methods such as parametric design, algorithmic generation, nonlinear design, and artificial intelligence-assisted design, it explores the methods and implementation approaches of digital visualization in the design of public building spaces. The aim is to offer insights and references for the deeper integration of digital technology into architectural design practices.

A Study of Information Architecture and Interaction

In the current era of rapid development of information, the field of visual communication design carries the important mission of conveying information and optimizing user experience. This study aims to deeply analyze the core principles and strategies of information architecture and interaction design in visual communication design, as well as the relevance and importance of the two in enhancing design efficiency and user experience. Through the form of case studies, this paper specifies the strategies and methods for building effective information architecture in visual communication design projects, such as target user group analysis, information classification and organization, and navigation system design. The research focuses on the practical and theoretical foundations of interaction design, and explains the key role of interaction design in enhancing user experience and information interactivity. The paper meticulously explores the basic principles of interaction design, such as consistency, feedback, and control, and how these principles can be applied in visual communication design to build intuitive and efficient user interfaces. This paper proposes a multidimensional optimization strategy, including interdisciplinary teamwork, user research and testing, and iterative design, to promote the effective integration of information architecture and interaction design. To summarize, this study not only delves into the application and practice of information architecture and interaction design in visual communication design, but also provides a set of theoretical frameworks and practical design strategies for designers and researchers, with a view to advancing the field of visual communication design to a higher goal by improving the interactability of information and user experience.

The mismatch between teaching and assessing professionalism: a practice architecture analysis of three professional programmes

ABSTRACT While there is broad agreement about their importance, courses in professionalism have proven difficult to teach and assess. Furthermore, there is currently a lack of knowledge regarding problems that are common across professional boundaries. The purpose of this article is to examine what teaching and assessing professionalism in higher education entails in three distinctly different professional education contexts in Sweden: medical, police, and social-work education. The study is qualitative and comparative, with data consisting of documents (curricula, syllabi, course content n > 200), interviews (n = 18), and participant observations (∼30 h) of how professionalism is taught and assessed in each programme. The results describe the practice architectures of teaching and assessing professionalism, where problems and dilemmas are made visible. The results also show a tension between the ambition to practise and the ambition to assess, which leads to what we call ‘assessment avoidance’.

Conceptualising praxis, agency and learning: A postabyssal exploration to strengthen the struggle over alternative futures

Educational researchers are increasingly striving on the edge of possibility to re-imagine and realise the future. Activist scholarship requires appropriate philosophical and theoretical bases, what Stetsenko refers to as ‘dangerous’ – useful in the struggle for a better world. How might praxis, agency and learning be charged with transgressive spirit? This paper considers the Theory of Practice Architectures and Transformative Activist Stance, established frameworks that dangerously address praxis, agency and learning. Adopting a postabyssal approach, contributions from the Global South and East are drawn on to develop an epistemologically plural basis for thinking differently about praxis, agency and learning. Recent Latin American scholarship reinvigorates Freirean ideas through connections with Fals Borda and contemporary feminist pedagogues, centred on a notion of feeling-thinking. Luitel’s interpretations of Vedic philosophy provide radically different ideas of negative dialectics, chaos, responsibility and liberation. An open-minded, open-hearted, open-ended approach is crucial to making these ideas more useful in the struggle over alternative, more equitable and just futures.

К вопросу пространства и места в дизайне городской среды

The paper hinges primarily on the problem of the object’s spatial foundations in the design of urban environ-ment. In order to clarify the concepts of “space” and “place” the content analysis of works reflecting the spatial turn in the field of sociology, culturology, cultural geography and urbanism is carried out. Space and place are considered as concepts of modernism and postmodernism design culture, as well as objects of modern archi-tectural and design practice and the main concepts of new urbanism. Based on the conducted analysis, the environment as an object of design is concretized as a concept of “place” – a space that is filled with meaning, semantics, emotional and sensory experiences, and has vital value. This work proposes a theoretical model of an object in the design of urban environment, which possesses the potential of connecting the sociocultural space of the city with the morphology, semantics and phenomenology of the place.

Using practice theories to understand, analyse and articulate followership in early childhood education sites

ABSTRACT This article delves into a methodological approach that challenges traditional followership and leadership research. It presents the application of Nicolini’s theory-method package, involving three tools of theory, methods, and vocabularies to articulate data. The theory-method package is a valuable tool for researchers in Australia and globally employing a practice-based approach to study work practices and educational systems. The package was used to analyse and articulate followership practices by integrating followership theories, multi-site ethnography, the theory of practice architectures and reflexive thematic analysis. Through these innovative lenses, the study provides fresh insights into how followership is practiced in early childhood settings. Notably, it challenges established leadership theories by emphasizing the multidimensional intricacies of followership practices, which extend beyond traditional leader-follower relationships. The study underscores the importance of choosing appropriate theories and methods when examining social practices within education systems. It highlights the value of adopting a practice lens to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of followership. This research both advances understandings of followership and identifies broader implications for the study of followership in educational contexts. It also highlights the need to navigate the seductive allure of theories and to embrace reflexive trepidations as part of the analytical journey.

The Impact of Islamic Thought on Creating Space in the Residence: Case Study of Suhaimi’s and Sibai’s Houses

This study investigates the factors influencing Islamic residence design, with a focus on understanding the cultural, religious, environmental, and socio-economic considerations that shape architectural practices in Islamic communities. Through a multidisciplinary approach, the research examines the interplay between Islamic beliefs, functional requirements, historical heritage, and contemporary design principles in the creation of residential spaces that reflect Islamic values and traditions. Drawing on architectural analysis, case studies and corpus analysis, the study identifies key factors influencing Islamic residence design, including cultural and religious beliefs, functional requirements, climate adaptation, architectural heritage, sustainability, and socio-economic dynamics. The findings highlight the importance of integrating Islamic principles into residential design, engaging with local communities, promoting sustainable practices, preserving architectural heritage, and advancing research and education in the field of Islamic architecture. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of Islamic residence design and provides valuable insights for architects, designers, policymakers, and researchers seeking to create culturally sensitive and contextually appropriate residential environments in Islamic communities.

Devised theatre methodology to promote creativity in school

ABSTRACT This study examines the use of a devised theatre methodology to develop more creativity in the professional learning community and among students. Data from focus groups in an action research project in an upper secondary school in Norway have been thematically analysed. Using the practice architecture theory, we identified three different practices: ‘creative practice’, ‘collective creative practice’ and ‘school practice’. The results show that devising methodology in the form of different production strategies, process orientation and a system of collective creative work promotes creativity in the professional learning community and for students. In addition, the methodology can be used to develop a teaching practice that promotes planning, imagination, and spontaneity in students, and contribute to a more equal guiding role in the form of guided improvisation from the teacher. The methodology can help teachers to foster discussions, understandings, develop concrete creative collaborations and promote democratic processes. The study points to tensions in teachers’ development of ‘creative practice’ and ‘collective creative practice’ in the face of a traditional ‘school practice’. The results are discussed using theories of devised theatre methodology, creativity, professional learning communities and practice architecture theory.

Gender Equality in Architecture and Construction: An Assessment Framework at the Institutional and Sectoral Levels in Jordan

The issue of gender equality demands attention from governments, policymakers, and the community at large. It requires continuous redefinition due to its complex technical, professional, economic, and social dimensions, all aimed at empowering women to claim their position within society. Jordan is no exception to this, as women encounter numerous hurdles in accessing equal opportunities in the professional sphere despite their increasing levels of education. This underscores the necessity for a thorough examination of the factors influencing this discussion. This research is targeted at identifying and categorising relevant gender equality indicators within the architectural practice in Jordan, as part of the construction sector. This research adopts a quantitative approach, utilising the Delphi Technique and Analytical Hierarchy Process through engagement with experts from academia and practice to ensure appropriate sourcing, filtration, and rating of the most relevant indicators. It concludes with the identification of fifty-nine indicators grouped into the categories of Education, Employability, Enablement, Inclusion, Professionalism, Facilitation, and Support. This research reveals a higher emphasis on the practical aspects of gender equality by the participants, prioritising particular categories and indicators. The findings offer essential insights to effectively address such an important issue across the policy, economic, social, and professional levels.

Inherited Geometry: a Socio-Professional Pattern in the Low Countries, 1480-1560

At the beginning of the 16th century the Habsburg Low Countries witnessed the emergence of a highly skilled class of painters who also often actively engaged in architectural design practice. This phenomenon has often been explained as being the result of an influx of Italian and humanist thinking about the artist such via the writings of figures like Alberti and Vitruvius. In this article, I propose an alternative account, using selected case studies to argue that this development was an internal process. Essential to changing design practices was the transfer of geometrical design knowledge between guilds, a transfer that transgressed traditional boundaries. Finally, I explore the effect of this knowledge dissemination on the evolving status of the visual artist.

Understanding professional learning in and for practice

ABSTRACT Based on an overview of the existing literature, this paper aims to provide a holistic and coherent conceptualisation and understanding of the complexity of educators’ professional learning. First, the way in which professional development, professional learning and everyday learning have been configured in contemporary research is combined with an initial practice theory perspective. Consequently, we conceptualise professional learning as learning in and for professional practice. Subsequently, the theory of practice architectures, a practice theory developed in educational settings, is presented. Based on the authors’ previous work, aspects of relatings, that is, the social space in which educators relate to each other in the mediums of power and solidarity, are highlighted. These include power, trust, recognition and agency. The paper ends by presenting a framework for understanding the complexity of learning in and for professional practice, consisting of two complementary perspectives: a site-based and time-bounded focus on professional action and an open-ended process of educators’ professional and human growth. Brought together these perspectives enable an understanding of the complexity of professional learning in terms of praxis development.

Blender as an Alternative to Architectural Apps

Blender, a 3D modeling and animation software, holds significant potential as a vital tool in architecture due to its varied capabilities. This abstract elaborates on the relevance of Blender in architectural practice and research. The paper highlights Blender's capacity to facilitate architectural visualization, design iteration, and virtual prototyping. It iterates on how Blender empowers architects to create immersive, photorealistic renderings, aiding in communication with clients and stakeholders. Moreover, the abstract delves into Blender's role in exploring innovative architectural concepts through parametric modeling, simulation, and experimentation. Keywords: 3D Modeling, Animation, Rendering, Texturing, Rigging, UV Mapping

СУЧАСНИЙ АРХІТЕКТУРНИЙ ПРОЦЕС ТА АКТУАЛЬНІ ЗАВДАННЯ АРХІТЕКТУРНОЇ ДІЯЛЬНОСТІ

The article is devoted to the identification of the features of the modern architectural process and the establishment of actual tasks of architectural activity. Today's society, science, and practice are experiencing phenomena that radically change the approaches and paradigms of the architectural process. The paper highlights the contradictions in the theory and practice of architecture that need to be resolved; considers aspects of the modern ideology of architecture; develops certain provisions of the theory of the environmental approach, namely, the features of "understanding" design, the communicative component of architectural activity; emphasizes the interaction of various actors in the process of architectural activity, the dialogue of the architect with stakeholders. The author emphasizes the decisive role of the architect as an organizer and coordinator of the design process, the interpretation of the architectural process as a component of the overall socio-cultural process. The biggest shifts are taking place in the field of the environmental approach to architectural activity. Environmental issues, which bring people and their lifestyles to the forefront, give impetus to the development of architectural management and marketing. These changes in priorities have led to a problematic situation in the theory of architecture and opened up a new space of work: the identification and recording of environmental experiences and images, the production of these experiences and the management of this process. The environmental approach outlines the future trajectories of architectural work, the essence of which is the inclusion of the designer in the life of the population, the materialization of their own version of life processes, the identification of a set of specialized activities that support the ideology of social progress and cultural development. Scientific research and architectural practice should be based on the achievements of the philosophy of architecture, understanding of new value orientations, taking into account the differences and pace of social change, etc. There is a need to recognize the importance of such a factor as the subject of the architectural process. Changing the basic guidelines of the consumer of an architectural object requires ensuring at the design stage the possibility of transforming an architectural object in the process of its further operation, predicting the emergence of new functions and the formation of their new material shell. The article outlines the contours of scientific innovations in the field of architecture - the theory of architectural activity in the conditions of intersubjective interaction; suggests forms of correct introduction of the concept of "design subject", which is active in the architectural environment, into design practice and theory of architectural activity.

Smoke: Enablers and barriers for sustainable engagement with local Aboriginal communities

For many years, activists in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) have called for the sector to engage closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and communities. However, less is documented on how mainstream services might achieve authentic, sustained engagement at a local service level. This paper showcases educators who connect with local Aboriginal community members/Elders as a central plank of their ECEC practice. In sharing their account, we examine what engagement looks like and what makes it possible. We have used Indigenous methodologies and the Theory of Practice Architecture (TPA) as theoretical lenses for exploring the policy, and organisational arrangements that sustained their engagement practices. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of the research.

Pastorale urbana. Kampung Admiralty a Singapore e il mito del villaggio

The strategies for the construction of national identity devised by the Singaporean government in the years following independence as a British colony included the evocation of an ideal original landscape, epitomized both by the tropical forests that covered the archipelago of Singapore and by the productive landscape of rural villages, or kampung in Malay. The idealized representations of these two local landscapes were entrusted to the plants selected to shape the greening campaigns accompanying the massive urbanization process that rapidly transformed Singapore into a high-density metropolis. Evolving from that approach is Kampung Admiralty, a large contemporary multifunctional building crowned by roof gardens designed by Singapore-based architectural practice WOHA, with Henning Larsen Landscape as landscape consultant. The architectural and landscape architectural complex appears as a technological celebration of the rural landscape: while the botanical associations employed suggest the varied spaces and lively atmospheres of traditional villages with their distinctive mixture of agricultural, wild, and ornamental plants species, the introduction of nature-based solutions and plant communities promoting biodiversity adapt the operational role of tropical vegetation in sustaining the survival of the community that inhabited the kampung to the needs of the contemporary city.

Absorptive metasurface inaccuracies made of micropore and microslit panels in multiple structures

Microperforated panels in forms of micropores/microslits (MPP/MSP) represent absorptive metasurfaces, which can achieve high absorption with single- or double-layer MSP/MPP absorbers. However, architectural acoustics practice usually requires broadband high absorption. Multiple metastructures in more than two layers become one of possible options. Multiple MPP/MSP metasurfaces arranged in layers inherently complicate the design process. This work applies a model-based Bayesian framework employing a potentially multilayered prediction model. The Bayesian framework involves two-levels of probabilistic inference to design a parsimonious number of layers as the higher level, quantitatively implementing Occam’s razor. Once the number of multilayers is selected, the MPP/MSP parameters are readily available within the Bayesian framework, so that the overall metastructure satisfies the design scheme. This work experimentally validates the designed prediction in comparison with the design scheme. However, manufacture inaccuracies may lead to unacceptable deviations. This work applies causation analysis based on a causal model to reveal causal uncertainties/inaccuracies. Using the causal model for causal inference, the Bayesian multilayer design can be satisfactorily validated. This paper discusses comparative investigations of metasurfaces made of micropores and microslits.

City and Ageing: Milan Explorations of the daily life of the elderly in a teaching experience

Through architectural and urban design teaching practice, the paper explores how society's progressive aging affects private and public spaces. The exercise investigates the relationship between living and ageing in seven neighbourhoods in Milan. In particular, it focuses on exploring the transformation and adaption of housing stock and public space, taking into account the strengths and vulnerabilities of the elderly population. The essay delivers the results of a teaching experience that has integrated multiple investigation tools to obtain knowledge on the subject: data, cartography, photography, drawing, and interviews. The paper intends to reconstruct the taxonomy of living of the elderly population in Milano.

A Practical Deep Learning Architecture for Large-Area Solid Wastes Monitoring Based on UAV Imagery

The development of global urbanization has brought about a significant amount of solid waste. These untreated wastes may be dumped in any corner, causing serious pollution to the environment. Thus, it is necessary to accurately obtain their distribution locations and detailed edge information. In this study, a practical deep learning network for recognizing solid waste piles over extensive areas using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imagery has been proposed and verified. Firstly, a high-resolution dataset serving to solid waste detection was created based on UAV aerial data. Then, a dual-branch solid waste semantic segmentation model was constructed to address the characteristics of the integration of solid waste distribution with the environment and the irregular edge morphology. The Context feature branch is responsible for extracting high-level semantic features, while the Spatial feature branch is designed to capture fine-grained spatial details. After information fusion, the model obtained more comprehensive feature representation and segmentation ability. The effectiveness of the improvement was verified through ablation experiments and compared with 13 commonly used semantic segmentation models, demonstrating the advantages of the method in solid waste segmentation tasks, with an overall accuracy of over 94%, and a recall rate of 88.6%—much better than the best performing baselines. Finally, a spatial distribution map of solid waste over Jiaxing district, China was generated by the model inference, which assisted the environmental protection department in completing environmental management. The proposed method provides a feasible approach for the accurately monitoring of solid waste, so as to provide policy support for environmental protection.

»Non è altro lo edificare se none un piacere uolunptario …«

Abstract In a time concerned with the emancipation of architecture from the mechanical arts to the liberal ones, Filarete challenged the mainstream rational-objective approach by proposing a poietic definition of architecture which spanned beyond craft and science. »Non è altro lo edificare se none un piacere volunptario…« is not yet another account of architecture, but it has become its supreme definition, possessing an almost universal value and demonstrating a vision ahead of its time. This paper investigates the multiple facets of this definition by situating it in the context of Renaissance architectural practice and within the framework of Filarete’s architectural treatise. Humanistic to the core, this definition transcends the usual anthropomorphic perspective on architecture (regarding the proportions, styles or expressions derived from the human body) and goes beyond the rational-material approach, addressing the sphere of sensitivity or even the realm of the spiritual. For Filarete, architectural creation is a true poietic act, consecrated to symbolism and emotion, while genuinely rooted in its manual, material dimension.