Research is at the heart of innovation in architecture and design. Designing energy-efficient homes and rethinking urban spaces requires architects to use structured research methodologies to make informed decisions. How does meaningful research begin? What makes a research question strong? And how can research bridge the gap between theory and practice?
These are some of the key questions that Dr. Masa Noguchi, an Associate Professor in Environmental Design at the University of Melbourne, addresses in his work. His approach to architectural research focuses on Environmental Experience Design (EXD), machine learning, and value engineering to create sustainable, user-centered spaces.
One of the most common areas of confusion in research is the distinction between methodology and methods. Though they sound similar, they serve different purposes.
Think of methodology as the blueprint for a building and methods as the tools used to construct it. Both are essential, but without a clear methodology, the research risks becoming directionless.
A strong research question is the foundation of any meaningful study. It should be:
Good research isn’t just about collecting data; it’s about solving real problems. A well-defined question ensures the study remains focused and meaningful.
Architecture, like all fields, builds upon past research. Before diving into a new study, it’s essential to examine existing literature, past studies, and real-world applications. This background research helps identify gaps and ensures the study contributes something valuable.
For example, a past PhD study on housing in Bangladesh identified a gap between architectural design and user needs in middle-income housing. By recognizing this issue, the researcher was able to propose solutions that directly addressed user concerns.
A structured approach to research ensures clarity and relevance. Here’s a breakdown of essential steps:
Every study needs clear boundaries. This includes:
A well-defined scope prevents the research from becoming too broad or unfocused.
Gathering demographic, economic, and theoretical background information strengthens research. It helps identify knowledge gaps and provides a foundation for new ideas.
Why does this research matter? Addressing contextual relevance and potential applications ensures the study has real-world value.
A study should have:
These guide the study and ensure it remains structured.
Research isn’t just about abstract ideas—it should solve practical problems. Dr. Noguchi emphasizes using user experience as a key theoretical framework, ensuring that architectural design meets real-world needs.
In today’s world, digital platforms offer new ways to conduct and share research. Architects and researchers can leverage:
These tools allow for deeper insights and broader reach, making research more impactful.
Architectural research isn’t just an academic exercise, it’s a way to shape better spaces. By understanding methodologies, asking the right questions, and connecting theory with practice, architects can design with purpose.
Dr. Noguchi’s approach reminds us that architecture is more than aesthetics. It’s about people, sustainability, and meaningful innovation. Whether you’re a budding architect or an experienced professional, strong research skills will always be a valuable asset.
The Sanctum in Amritsar, designed by Renesa Architecture Design Interiors Studio, stands as a rare architectural experiment in India. It is an attempt to reinvent the domestic typology through geometry, material, and spatial narrative. Spread over 12,000 sq ft on a generous 3 acres plot, the house positions itself as a contemporary meditation on permanence and […]
Mishti’s House by KD ASSOCIATE is a striking example of contemporary residential architecture that blends modern aesthetics with mindful design. The facade features a harmonious mix of exposed red brick, smooth white plaster, and wooden-toned vertical fins, creating depth and visual balance. A unique geometric lattice screen with a Buddha motif serves as both a […]
Our urban landscapes are undergoing a rapid transformation, pressured by burgeoning populations and increasing demands on city infrastructure. To address these escalating challenges, urban planners continually revise zoning regulations. In Delhi, for instance, a significant regulatory change introduced mandatory stilt parking on small urban lots with four habitable floors above. Gurugram, a satellite city, subsequently adopted […]
Located in HMT Layout, Bangalore, Isha_Srinidhi Nilaya stands as a multi-generational home designed on a compact 60×40 ft (2400 sq. ft) East facing plot, with a total built-up area of 8000 sq. ft. East Facing a lush public park, the residence responds to its urban setting through a layered design that balances privacy with a […]
Timeless architectural features, such as courtyards, are always associated with bringing the naturally public forms to the world’s heart, building the most peaceful, secluded outdoor areas. These outdoor spaces maximize the living experience with their private space feature, which gives one the option for leisurely relaxation, recreation, or gardening. Furthermore, it has also been a […]
Architecture font choices go beyond style—they shape how your work is perceived. From portfolios to presentations, the right architecture font instantly communicates clarity, precision, and personality. As architects, we design not just with space but with every detail, including typography. Selecting a strong architecture font shows your commitment to visual storytelling and design consistency. In […]
The Indian farmhouse accommodation goes on to capitalize on a mature evolutionary synthesis of ancestral aesthetics and contemporary features. With this, the outside and the inside of farmhouses became places of comfort with nature. In this blog, we delve into 15 incredible farmhouse designs that entail a harmonious blending. While they exhibit different spaces in […]
Aangan is a modern residence that seamlessly integrates with the lush environment of Kerala, showcasing a tropical home design. Designed to embrace the region’s warm climate, the house features a striking sloped terracotta roof at varying levels, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and functional efficiency. The structure is enveloped in a vibrant tropical landscape, adorned […]
The door design for main door is a defining feature of any Indian home, embodying both style and cultural significance. In a country rich with diverse architectural traditions, the entrance to your home reflects not only personal taste but also cultural heritage. Whether you’re drawn to the intricate carvings of traditional Indian door designs or […]
Pillar design is a cornerstone of architectural elegance, seamlessly blending structural support with aesthetic appeal. Our blog, “50 Best Pillar Design Inspirations,” celebrates this essential element, showcasing a variety of styles from classical Doric and Ionic to contemporary and avant-garde innovations. Whether you’re an architect, interior designer, or a design enthusiast, these pillar design inspirations […]