UNIVERSITY OF THE CORDILLERAS

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND

ARCHITECTURE

AR 331 DESIGN 07 L&S

MWF 7:30 AM -12:50 PM
M 12:50 PM- 2:10 PM

“ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN COMPETITION RESEARCH THEMES”

DATE GIVEN: JANUARY 08, 2024

DATE DUE: JANUARY 08, 2024
DATE SUBMITTED: JANUARY 08, 2024

REFERENCE/S:
• Neha Sharma (2023). Architecture Thesis Projects: A Comprehensive List of 30
Topics to Pick From (Updated 2022) Retrieved from
https://www.novatr.com/blog/architecture-thesis-projects
• Uni.xyz(05 December 2023) 20 Unconventional Architecture Thesis Topics for
2024: Exploring the Future Through Design. Retrieved from
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/20-unconventional-architecture-thesis-topics-
2024-exploring-hrvsf

STUDENT NAME : BAUTISTA, ELLEN MAE T.

ARCH. IRENE G. FLORENDO, MSAR

 Page 2 of 4

THE CONTENTS OF THE RESEARCH WORK:

I. Introduction/background

Architectural design competitions serve as dynamic platforms for fostering

creativity and innovation within the field. These competitions often revolve around
carefully curated research themes that challenge architects and designers to
envision groundbreaking solutions. The selected themes encapsulate contemporary
concerns and aspirations, ranging from sustainability and cultural preservation to
cutting-edge technology and social inclusivity. Through this lens, architects engage
in a process of exploration, ideation, and realization, contributing to the evolution of
the built environment. This introduction sets the stage for a deeper understanding of
the diverse and thought-provoking research themes that define architectural design
competitions, ultimately shaping the future of our living spaces.

II. Objectives of this research

This research aims to discuss and understand Architectural design

competition research themes. The objectives of collectivity contribute to the
dynamic and evolving nature of architectural design competitions, playing a role in
shaping the future of the built environment.

This paper attains the following:

1. Give examples of Architectural design competition research themes

2. Give an example of a unique topic.

III. Contents of the research

Architectural design competitions often explore diverse themes, ranging from

sustainability and urban integration to cultural preservation and innovative use of
materials. Some common research themes include:

1. Sustainability and Green Design:

Focusing on eco-friendly practices, energy efficiency, and sustainable materials.
2. Urban Renewal:
Addressing issues related to urban planning, revitalizing neighborhoods, and
creating more livable cities.
3. Cultural Heritage:
Preserving and integrating cultural identity into modern architecture is often seen in
projects involving historical sites or culturally significant spaces.
4. Innovative Technology:
Exploring the integration of cutting-edge technologies, such as smart buildings, IoT,
and sustainable construction methods.

5. Social Inclusivity:

Designing spaces that cater to diverse communities, ensuring accessibility and

inclusivity for people of all abilities.
 Page 3 of 4

6. Adaptability and Flexibility:

Designing spaces that can adapt to changing needs, promoting flexibility and multi-
functional use.

7. Resilience and Disaster Mitigation:

Addressing challenges related to climate change and natural disasters, creating

structures that can withstand adverse conditions.

8. Affordable Housing:

Exploring innovative solutions for providing cost-effective and sustainable housing

options.

9. Health and Wellness:

Designing spaces that contribute to occupants' physical and mental well-being,

incorporating elements that promote a healthy lifestyle.

10. Adaptive Reuse:

Repurposing existing structures for new functions, promoting sustainability and

historical preservation.

INSTITUTIONAL PROJECT

1. Educational and Skill-Training Institutions

Schools play an important role in shaping a person and are key in bringing up
generations of bright individuals. Educational and skill-training institutions have
vast options, ranging from kindergartens to higher-education institutes; schools of
dance to special-needs institutes.

2. Rehabilitation and Wellness Institutions

Unfortunately, sometimes individuals must be institutionalized to get their health

back on track. Rehabilitation centers and centers for people with depression or
trauma aim at people’s mental wellness, while public gyms and civic sports
centers aim at people’s physical wellness. If healing architecture and landscape
is something you like.

PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT

3. Public Parks and Plazas

Parks are the lungs of the concrete jungles many of us live in. After a day of intense
work, all we need is some greenery and fresh air; or to grab a beer at that corner
cafe in the city square! The design of public parks, plazas, and playgrounds could
be the best architecture thesis topic for an urban/landscape enthusiast.

4. Social Infrastructure
5. A robust, well-functioning society accommodates and facilitates the wellness
of all its citizens and living beings. Infrastructures like orphanages, nursing
homes, animal shelters, night shelters, daycare centers, banks, prisons, juvenile
 Page 4 of 4

schools, community development centers, and many more tend to those

social needs of society that cannot be overlooked.

SOCIO-CULTURAL PROJECT

6. Community and Convention Centers

Humans are social animals. Now and then, we crave a meet-and-greet. Community
and Convention Centers cater to this very need, and exploring the design angles for
human interaction may be something worthy of your architecture thesis project.

7. Memorials

Memorials are the physical manifestations of the struggles endured, victories earned,
and life-changing events in history. They remind us to never forget the past, hoping
for a better future at the same time, making memorial design a fascinating yet
weighted exercise.

Unconventional Architecture Thesis Topics for 2024: Exploring the Future Through
Design

8. Astronomical and Educational Facilities Design

Wadi Rum Observatory - Integrating Astronomy with Desert Tranquility

The Wadi Rum Observatory is a prime example in Astronomical and Educational

Facilities Design, merging the awe of the cosmos with the serenity of the desert. This
project, set in the vast Wadi Rum desert, stands as a symbol of architectural
ingenuity, where the majesty of the night sky converges with the earth's quietude. Its
design reflects the minimalism and sustainability of its surroundings, offering a space
where the sky and sand meet in a harmonious dialogue.

9. Sustainable Material Innovation

Responsive Shell - Material Innovation from Tokyo's Seafood Wast

In the realm of Sustainable Material Innovation, the "Responsive Shell" project

emerges as a pioneering model. Orchestrated by University of Tokyo students, this
initiative elevates the concept of sustainable materials by transforming Tokyo's
seafood waste into architectural potential. The project's core innovation lies in
converting crab shells into Chitosan, a natural polymer, demonstrating a
groundbreaking approach to sustainable architecture.

VI. Conclusion

The architectural design competition research themes highlight the diverse and
evolving trends in contemporary architecture. From sustainable and eco-friendly
designs to innovative use of technology, these themes underscore the importance
of addressing societal needs and environmental concerns in architectural practices.
The competition research suggests a growing emphasis on creating spaces that
foster connectivity, adaptability, and resilience in response to the ever-changing
dynamics of our world.