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 design of Coexistence House is rooted in the philosophy of living in harmony with nature. The site, located in Perungudi—a rapidly urbanising neighbourhood of Chennai—held a unique character with its mature mango and coconut trees, remnants of an older garden deeply tied to the memory of the place. The client’s deep emotional connection to […]
There are countless options when designing a home; each story is distinct to the person who creates it. “When we were asked to craft a home that revolved around the idea of practicality and modern materials, we decided to create a space that felt contemporary and brought in the idea of nature”, says Ar. Saumya […]
In the dense rhythm of Noida, where homes rise in the hustle of chaos and silence is rare, a slender home offers a pause. The land set its own terms — a north-east-facing house orientation, a mandated front garden, and trees that had stood tall long before the first drawings took shape. Instead of overwriting […]
Editor’s note – Rarely do we encounter homes where a strong story and context come together so seamlessly. Studio Bardo takes on this challenge with great sensitivity, redesigning an abandoned Himalayan house in the Himalayas into something far more than just a residence. Here, every intervention is rooted in culture, memory, and place—reviving the character […]
Editors’ Note – This colonial house in Delhi carries an ambience of grandeur, infused with the elegance of Victorian-style colonialism. Expansive living, dining, and kitchen areas open into light-filled spaces framed by large glazing that connect seamlessly to the surrounding landscape. Inside, tropical interiors with bold geometry add a contemporary layer of comfort. The residence […]
“Hilltop House” is envisioned as a contemporary yet context-sensitive residential project that harmonizes architecture and interior design to create a sanctuary perched on a scenic elevation. The design will respond directly to the topography, climate, and panoramic views, while delivering a highly functional, comfortable, and aesthetically refined living environment. This Hilltop House in Indore Is […]
This southwest-facing bungalow, with golden accents in its interiors, is a refined expression of contextual and climate-responsive modern architecture. The home embraces its orientation with an intelligent façade design that balances aesthetic appeal and environmental performance. With the sun’s harshest rays hitting the structure in the latter half of the day, the architects incorporated a […]
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 […]