Urban and architectural design and scientific research: how to save an arranged marriage?

Abstract

As a result of the Bologna treaty, many architectural and planning schools in Europe are undergoing transition. New standards demand integration of scientific research into curricula, posing challenges for institutions traditionally centred on studio work and design. While some argue that design practice itself suffices for validation, others call for revising research criteria to better reflect design-specific outputs. This paper rejects both “business as usual” and stretching traditional science frameworks. Instead, it proposes that design excellence and output should be assessed through their own specific criteria and institutions. A framework distinguishing different forms of knowledge is outlined, with suggestions for applying differentiated criteria to evaluate design excellence and output.