Design Research Units
Research activities at our School of Architecture are organised around five Design Research Units (DRUs), collaborative associations of faculty members sharing common research and teaching agendas. The DRUs aim to bridge between studio learning and academic research with emphasis placed on innovative design and critical thinking.
Building Technology and Sustainable Design (BTSD)
The BTSD Design Research Unit is based on an understanding that successful architecture is a seamless integration between design and technology, where comprehensive, innovative sustainable solutions can be explored through a broad spectrum of applications, including responses that address climate, comfort, construction, material resources, and use.
Design Methodology and Practice (DMP)
The DMP Design Research Unit seeks to rebuild the bridge between theory and praxis. Its studios embrace a range of methodical approaches that begin with an experimental or metaphysical basis and evolve towards a concrete and articulated design proposal, reinforcing the notion of research advancing practice and practice reinvigorating research.
Digital Technology and Computational Design (DTCD)
The DTCD Design Research Unit focuses on the impact of computation on architecture – from conceptual design to project implementation and digital fabrication. Students are introduced to the various aspects of computation, including logics, procedural and algorithmic design methodology, complex geometry and computational design theory.
History, Culture and Conservation Design (HCCD)
The HCCD Design Research Unit focuses on architectural history and culture, with specific interests and strengths in the local context of Hong Kong as well as China. Current research projects engage innovative mapping and photographic analysis both at the scale of architectural projects and of urban and landscape settings.
Urban Design and Landscape Urbanism (UDLU)
The UDLU Design Research Unit focuses on sustainable approaches to urban regeneration and new town design addressing ecological and socio-economic concerns in the context of Hong Kong, Macau and the Pearl River Delta. Students enrol in courses related to urban issues and integrate interdisciplinary perspectives into their studies.