2009-2012 - Urban Architecture. Architectural Studies for the Dutch Cities.

The Urban Architecture program is an interdisciplinary research with special focus on architectural design. It aims to bring about an intensive exchange of scientific knowledge on the basis of a long tradition, and to contribute to the further development of Architecture as a reflexive practice by precisely redefining its own position and demarcating its boundaries in relation to the processes of urbanization.

 

The program comprises three subprograms on the basis of three different categories of research:

- Typological and Morphological Research: Mapping the Cities of the Randstad

- Theories and Methods of Design and Analyses: Urban Studies and Architectural Design

- Research by Design: Projects for the Dutch City

 

Mapping the Cities of the Randstad gives a comparative analysis of the architecture of the nine most important historical cities of the Randstad Holland on basis of the historical dynamics of the System of the Dutch Cities and its impact on the interaction of urban form and building typology. In collaboration with other parties this subprogram is aiming, next to six Phd. projects, at the publication of an Atlas of the Randstad Holland. The Atlas is seen as an important design tool for future urban interventions.

 

Urban Studies and Architectural Design studies the development of the disciplinary discourse of architecture with special focus on the role of drawings and other visual media. The research gives an overview of the most important trends in urban architecture over the last century. Their methods will be compared and their theoretical and historical value evaluated. This subprogram is aiming, next to four Phd. projects, at a book publication: The Ideal Model and the Project. Rethinking Urban Architecture. The book is seen as an important contribution to the academic and public debate.

 

Projects for the Dutch City studies the potentials of research by design. By choosing special study areas and programs architectural design can show opportunities for urban regeneration. Research and design share a common offspring in architectural thinking. Given the limits of the discipline, the architectural project is the most truthful way of showing the impact and possibilities of urban transformations. This subprogram is aiming, next to four Phd. projects, at the organization of the EAAE (European Association for Architectural Education) conference of 2012 in Delft on the subject Research by Design in Architecture, with an exhibition and a book publication.

 

Exchange of information and concepts between the three subprograms and with connected fields of research in the faculty and other universities is crucial for the whole of the program. Therefore seminars will be held regularly and the publication of the series of OverHolland (bilingual, Dutch/English), two times a year, will continue.