Architecture, Volume 5, Issue 3 (September 2025) – 45 articles

Throughout history, humans have used the environment to build structures for defense. Fortifications are clear examples of buildings created to better protect important settlements and homes. Over time, these structures have gone beyond their original purpose of shielding residents inside and around the walls, now functioning as complex centers for political, economic, administrative, and cultural governance. Additionally, communication networks have been established between strongholds, forming a defensive system for a region or country. Therefore, Fortifications and military heritage exemplify typologies of heritage developed in an organic relationship with the unique environment shaped by human activities. Walled towns are safeguarded by maintaining their functions or being designated cultural heritage among these fortifications and military heritage. Through this study, we analyze the Haemi-eupseong Walled Town (in Korean ‘읍성,’ in Chinese ‘邑城’) as one of Korea’s typical walled towns concerning the attributes that reflect the authenticity according to ‘the Operational Guidelines for the Implementation of the World Heritage Convention’ and examine the efforts of the conservation management entity to sustain and utilize this authority by applying the theory and methodology outlined in the ICOMOS Guidelines on Fortifications and Military Heritage, officially adopted in 2021 by ICOMOS, the cultural heritage advisory body under UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee, to Haemi-eupseong. The goal is to explore theoretical approaches to heritage value, develop systematic methods for heritage utilization, and propose strategies for sustainably preserving the importance of heritage. Full article

Dispute resolution significantly enhances construction performance as it facilitates effective time, cost, quality and scope management, which may be disrupted in the presence of conflicts and disputes. Quantity Surveyors (QSs) play multiple roles in construction and act as contract administrators. Yet, dispute resolution was not formally adapted into the profession of QS in the Sri Lankan green construction sector to a considerable extent. Therefore, this study explores the extent to which construction companies have adopted ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) methods, human skills required for QSs in effective dispute resolution, and the impact of QSs involvement in ADR on the organizational performance, following a quantitative analysis. The research outcomes mainly discovered possibilities of utilizing ADR for the purpose of reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption in Sri Lankan green building construction through QSs involvement. While identifying essential human skills and competencies required for QSs in handling disputes, this study further exposed a slightly significant traditional gender domination in the QSs’ involvement towards ADR, common occurrences of disputes in green building projects, and a significant relationship between QSs’ experience and their involvement in disputes. The recommendations include enhancement of QSs’ involvement in ADR for green construction through developing policies and formalities, providing sufficient ADR- and green construction-related training, encouraging female participation in green construction, and collaborative dispute resolution. Full article

Imagine picking up an e-scooter or e-bike from a charging dock on campus that combines solar panels with a filtered rainwater refill fountain, a mobile phone charging point, climbing plants, and insect habitats. What if the space also offered composting for food waste, shelter from the rain, and a space to meet friends—open to all to support the university’s civic role in the wider city? This paper explores the ideas affecting biodiversity, health, and wellbeing of co-created design explorations of 15-minute city principles on university campuses. Originating from urban planning, the 15-minute city proposes that essential needs like education, healthcare, work, and leisure are accessible by active travel. Applied to a university campus, it means students and staff can access classrooms, housing, food, and recreation in just 15 minutes. Beyond convenience, this approach is argued to foster inclusive, mixed-use, and potentially ecologically regenerative spaces. Drawing on regenerative design thinking—which aims to restore and co-evolve human and natural systems—this participatory design research critically responds to top-down models by involving students and university stakeholders in co-creating visions for a 15-minute campus. The results show that through this participatory design process, cocreators contributed to shaping ideas that foster belonging, emotional attachment, and co-responsibility for place. The research concludes by proposing an innovative reorientation of the 15-minute-city—from a model concerned primarily with needs and efficiency, to one grounded in ecological consciousness, autonomy, and human–nature co-evolution. Full article

This article describes the relationship between spatial perception and temporal experience, emphasizing the limitations of linear frameworks in understanding these phenomena for contemporary students of design. Drawing on recent literature in neuroscience, the author argues for wider recognition of how our brains represent space through an awareness of non-Euclidean geometries, particularly hyperbolic models that more holistically reflect the complexity of lived experience. Through the lens of personal narratives, including reflections on living in a militarized landscape in Hawai‘i, the paper emphasizes the importance of various cultural and sensory interpretations of time—such as “Hawaiian Time” and “Turtle Time”—which offer unique perspectives on what it means to exist in these built environments. Ultimately, it advocates for a pedagogical shift in design education that encourages students to embrace and integrate more diverse temporal experiences in their work, fostering a richer awareness of their present as they engage with the conceptualization and design of built space. Three key assertions are described. First, multiple, different perceptions of time coexist in the same universe and reality, offering various sensations and registrations of existence. Second, these diverse views on the passage of time, like Island Time, emphasize a slower, more direct engagement with life’s vicissitudes, in contrast to mechanical time, for example. Lastly, by acknowledging the presence of differing states of temporal perception, design students are aided in more holistic and rational conceptualization of built space and therefore in their own movement into complex and indeterminant futures in design. Full article

Over the past two decades, sustainability and quality of life (QoL) have become foundational concepts in the design of buildings and urban spaces. Due to their strong interrelation and shared emphasis on human well-being, distinguishing between these concepts has proven challenging. While numerous studies have investigated sustainable urban design and QoL, inconsistencies remain: some define QoL as a component of sustainable urbanization, whereas others treat it as a separate construct. This study aims to evaluate and compare both concepts by identifying, weighting, and analyzing their respective indicators, thereby uncovering overlaps, correlations, and distinctions. In particular, it assesses the significance of each indicator within the three dimensions of sustainable urban design: environmental, social, and economic. A mixed-methods approach was employed, beginning with an in-depth literature review and comparative analysis of leading global studies, ranked cities, and official rating systems developed primarily in developed countries. Subsequently, a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method was applied to quantify the importance of each indicator and evaluate their alignment with the three dimensions of sustainability. The results reveal that sustainable urban design comprises 31 indicators, while QoL includes 27, with 19 indicators shared between the two concepts. All identified indicators are distributed across the three core dimensions of sustainability. Specifically, the environmental dimension encompasses 15 indicators for sustainable urban design, accounting for 57.7% of total significance, whereas QoL comprises 10 indicators in this category, contributing 35.67%. In the social dimension, sustainable urban design incorporates 14 indicators (34.82%), while QoL places even greater emphasis here with 15 indicators, representing 54.42%. The economic dimension includes 2 indicators for each concept, contributing 7.43% in sustainable urban design and 9.92% in QoL. These findings underscore that QoL serves as a critical component in the assessment and design of sustainable urban spaces, not only influencing other indicators but also reinforcing aspects—particularly in the social dimension—that are often underrepresented in existing sustainability frameworks. Additionally, the advancement of urban sustainability plays a pivotal role in achieving and enhancing QoL, suggesting a mutually reinforcing relationship between the two constructs. Full article

The emergence of large language models (LLMs) has opened new avenues for integrating artificial intelligence into architectural design workflows. This paper explores the feasibility of applying generative AI to solve a classic combinatorial problem: generating valid building geometries of a modular family house structure. The problem involves identifying all valid placements of six spatial blocks under strict architectural constraints. The study contrasts the conventional algorithmic solution with generative approaches using ChatGPT-3.5, ChatGPT-4o, and a hybrid expert model. While early GPT models struggled with accuracy and solution completeness, the hybrid expert-guided approach demonstrated a successful synergy between LLM-driven code generation and domain-specific corrections. The findings suggest that, while LLMs alone are insufficient for precise combinatorial tasks, hybrid systems combining classical and AI techniques hold great promise for supporting architectural problem solving including building geometry generation. Full article

Bio-inspirations in the literature of architecture have been studied as form findings and material explorations; however, there is a gap in exploring a method to simplify thermal and daylighting inspiration from nature as assembled building enclosures. This article explores bio-inspired enclosures as a source of innovation for climate adaptations based on their closed-loop systems. We employed a simulation-based methodology to translate bio-inspired geometries into window-to-wall ratios to evaluate building performances. Case studies and their daylight and energy performance results provide a benchmark assessment for the EUI, DA, and DGP. The EUI remains without a significant difference, as it is mainly related to the space volume and technical specifications, while the comparison between the DA among the three groups of studied surfaces indicates the highest DA for minimal surfaces. This article explored energy and daylight outcomes for minimal and tessellated surfaces, in addition to a method of situating natural inspiration in building enclosure designs for a warming climate. Full article

The traditional construction industry significantly contributes to global resource consumption and climate change. Conventional methods limit the development of complex and multifunctional architectural forms. In contrast, 3D concrete printing (3DCP), an additive manufacturing technique, enables the creation of intricate building envelopes that integrate architectural and energy-efficient functions. Bioinspired design, recognized for its sustainability, has gained traction in this context. This study investigates the thermal and energy performance of various bioinspired and regular 3DCP infill patterns compared to conventional concrete building envelopes in tropical climates. A three-stage methodology was employed. First, bioinspired patterns were identified and evaluated through a literature review. Next, prototype models were developed using Rhino and simulated in ANSYS to assess thermal performance. Finally, energy performance was analyzed using Ladybug and Honeybee tools. The results revealed that honeycomb, spiral, spiderweb, and weaving patterns achieved 35–40% higher thermal and energy efficiency than solid concrete, and about 10% more than the 3DCP sawtooth pattern. The findings highlight the potential of bioinspired spiral infill patterns to enhance the sustainability of 3DCP building envelopes. This opens new avenues for integrating biomimicry into 3DCP construction as a tool for performance optimization and environmental impact reduction. Full article

University students are subject to various demands in their role as academics. Such pressures tend to amplify emotional distress, making them more susceptible to mental health hazards. This study investigates the influence of enclosed courtyards on students’ mental health within educational facilities, focusing on their distinct spatial configurations, such as semi-open layouts and vegetation cover, as well as their effects on intellectual functioning and well-being. The research used electroencephalography (EEG) to examine brainwave activity and quantify the influence of the spatial design of enclosed courtyards on the mental and emotional well-being of students. An experiment with 16 students and EEG measurements was conducted in the Faculty of Engineering courtyard at Egypt’s Ain Shams University in Cairo, providing 60–70% statistical power to detect medium effect sizes (Cohen’s d = 0.5, α = 0.05), which is sufficient for exploratory research. The study explores the psychophysiological implications of the brain’s electrical signals as neurological measurements, such as alpha and theta brainwaves, in order to assess individuals’ relaxation, restoration, and attention levels. The findings show that natural characteristics of the courtyard, expansive space, and visual stimuli have a significant effect on restoration and attention. While the sample size is limited and the design is context-specific, the results provide preliminary evidence that meticulously designed enclosed courtyards can improve students’ mental well-being. These findings invite further multi-site validation to assess generalizability. This study contributes to the expanding domain of neurolandscape” by demonstrating the interplay between built environments and mental health in educational contexts. Full article

Green buildings (GBs) are a means of achieving sustainable construction. However, they face challenges, such as higher (perceived or actual) investment costs and inadequate capital. Green finance (GF) presents opportunities to address some challenges of GB. Barriers hinder GF-in-GB; however, previous studies identifying barriers to GF-in-GB are limited. Moreover, prior studies have not considered the interrelationships among these barriers. This study aims to identify and prioritize the critical barriers to GF-in-GB in Ghana to inform decision-making by policymakers and stakeholders. This study developed a valid set of barriers and criteria from the literature to ascertain their interactions through two rounds of Delphi surveys with 12 professionals with GF-in-GB experience. A two-step fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (FDEMATEL) method was employed to validate 16 criteria of barriers using linguistic preferences. The findings of this study indicate that split incentives, inadequate private investment, inadequate management support, and limited green projects are critical barriers to GF-in-GB. These criteria deserve critical attention, as they are of high importance cause indices and can give rise to effect barriers. The government can adopt the research findings in policymaking and by other stakeholders that seek to eliminate barriers by focusing on the most influential ones. Full article

Interoperability between Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Facility Management (FM) depends on open, vendor-neutral standards. Yet, operational uptake remains constrained by fragmented workflows, incompatible schemas, and non-standardized delivery. This critical review synthesizes OpenBIM pathways—within the buildingSMART ecosystem (Industry Foundation Classes (IFC), Construction–Operations Building information exchange (COBie), Information Delivery Specification (IDS) v1.0, buildingSMART Data Dictionary (bSDD)) and the Level of Information Need (ISO 7817-1:2024)—across technical, managerial, and strategic dimensions. We searched major databases and used guided snowballing to screen a core corpus. Technically, persistent semantic inconsistencies and limited real-time, bidirectional exchange remain; open standards enable machine-checkable deliverables and API-friendly serializations. Managerially, weak Organizational Information Requirements (OIR) → Asset Information Requirements (AIR) → Exchange Information Requirements (EIR) alignment and unclear acceptance criteria undermine FM readiness. Strategically, procurement and risk management should mitigate vendor lock-in. We highlight gaps in FM ontologies and BIM–IoT synchronization and outline an agenda for Digital Twins, automation, and verifiable FM data quality within OpenBIM ecosystems. Full article

The construction sector is a major contributor to environmental degradation due to high energy consumption and CO₂ emissions. This study presents a low-tech, sustainable construction system based on the manual fabrication of curved laminated bamboo beams, assembled with screws and steel straps, without adhesives or heavy machinery. The case study is part of a bamboo roof structure built within Jericoacoara National Park, Brazil, using Dendrocalamus asper for its mechanical strength and carbon storage capacity. The construction process of three vertical lower laminated curved beams (Vig.CLIV-1, CLIV-2, and CLIV-3) was systematized into two main phases—preparation and construction. Due to the level of detail involved, only Vig.CLIV-1 is fully presented, broken down into work items, processes, and sub-processes to identify critical points for quality control and time efficiency. Comparative analysis of the three beams complements the findings, highlighting differences in logistics, labor performance, and learning outcomes. The results demonstrate the potential of this handcrafted system to achieve high geometric accuracy in complex site conditions, with low embodied energy and strong replicability. Developed by bamboo specialists from Colombia and Peru with support from local assistants, this experience illustrates the viability of low-impact, appropriate construction solutions for ecologically sensitive contexts and advances the integration of sustainable, replicable practices in architectural design. Full article

Architectural education programs are rapidly expanding the use of immersive technologies worldwide. An increasing number of architecture schools have incorporated 360-degree videos as one of the accessible and cost-effective immersive tools. Despite their availability and ease of use, research on their effectiveness as a learning tool in architectural pedagogy remains limited and mostly focused on architectural design education. Few studies have discussed their application in theoretical courses and their potential to support cognitive understanding of architecture. Learning cultural heritage is considered a foundation of architectural theory. This study examines how the utilization of 360-degree videos, compared to conventional 2D videos, supports spatial cognition, learning performance and experience in cultural heritage education among undergraduate architecture students. An educational experiment was conducted with 89 students in their second year of the architecture degree at the Applied Science Private University, Jordan. Both 360-degree videos and conventional 2D videos were inserted as learning tools within the curriculum of History of Architecture 1 and 2 courses. A mixed-research-method framework, including observation and a post-test survey, was carried out. Using SPSS and Excel programs, the data were analyzed through a set of statistical analyses such as paired-sample t-tests, AHP, and basic descriptive analysis. The findings demonstrate that students were highly immersed and motivated when using 360-degree videos. Compared to conventional 2D videos, 360-degree videos enhanced students’ spatial cognition, performance, engagement, and participation levels in both face-to-face and online courses. These results suggest that 360-degree videos can serve as a sufficient, low-cost, and equipment-free learning tool, responding to the urgent need to utilize technologies in both theoretical and practical architectural pedagogy. Full article

The rapid evolution of the metaverse is driving the development of new digital design tools that integrate Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) technologies. Core technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) are increasingly combined with BIM to enhance collaboration and innovation in design and construction workflows. However, current BIM–VR integration often remains limited to isolated tasks, lacking persistent, multi-user environments that support continuous project collaboration. This study proposes a BIM-based Virtual World (VW) framework that addresses these limitations by creating an immersive, real-time collaborative platform for the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. The system enables multi-user access to BIM data through avatars, supports direct interaction with 3D models and associated metadata, and maintains a persistent virtual environment that evolves alongside project development. Key functionalities include interactive design controls, real-time decision-making support, and integrated training capabilities. A prototype was developed using Unreal Engine and supporting technologies to validate the approach. The results demonstrate improved interdisciplinary collaboration, reduced information loss during design iteration, and enhanced stakeholder engagement. This research highlights the potential of BIM-based Virtual Worlds to transform AEC collaboration by fostering an open, scalable ecosystem that bridges immersive environments with data-driven design and construction processes. Full article

The 4E Cognition paradigm offers a novel theoretical framework for understanding how acoustic environments influence cognitive processes in university learning spaces. This research integrates objective characterization of environmental parameters with comprehensive subjective evaluation of student experience to explore how aural conditions relate to cognitive processes and physiological stress responses in university learning environments. The study recruited 126 university students from the Engineering Faculty of “G. D’Annunzio” University, with final analysis including 66 valid responses from 28 participants in the acoustically treated classroom and 38 from the control condition. The results revealed modest associations between environmental conditions and cognitive performance measures, with small to moderate effect sizes (Cohen’s d ranging from 0.02 to 0.31). While acoustic treatment produced measurable improvements in speech intelligibility and acoustic quality ratings, differences in cognitive load and allostatic load indices were minimal between conditions. These findings provide preliminary empirical insights for applying the 4E Cognition framework to educational settings, suggesting that acoustic interventions may require extended exposure periods or more intensive treatments to produce substantial physiological and cognitive effects. This work contributes to the emerging field of cognitive architecture by introducing an innovative theoretical approach that reconceptualizes acoustic environments as potential cognitive extensions rather than mere background conditions. The findings offer initial evidence-based insights for integrating environmental considerations into educational facility design, while highlighting the need for longitudinal studies to fully understand how acoustic environments function as cognitive scaffolding in learning contexts. Full article

This paper explores the complexities of measuring impact from placemaking in the context of public and community housing (sometimes known as social or subsidised housing) in Aotearoa New Zealand. Placemaking refers to a range of practices and interventions—including the provision or facilitation of access to community infrastructure—that seek to cultivate a positive sense of place through everyday experiences, spaces, relationships, and rituals. Drawing on interviews with four community housing providers (CHPs), analysis of their documentation, and tenant survey and interview data from two of those CHPs, this research examines providers’ change theories about placemaking in relation to tenants’ experiences of safety, belonging and connectedness, including access to local amenities, ease of getting around, and a sense of neighbourhood and community affiliation. Based on the importance of these variables to wellbeing outcomes, the study highlights the potential of placemaking to support tenant wellbeing, while also recognising that providers must navigate trade-offs and co-benefits, limited resources, and varying levels of tenant engagement. While placemaking can help to foster feelings of connection, belonging and safety, its impact depends on providers’ capacity to initiate and sustain such efforts amidst competing demands and constraints. The study offers indicative findings and recommendations for future research. Although the impacts of placemaking and community infrastructure provision are difficult to quantify, research findings are synthesised into a prototype framework to support housing providers in their decision-making and housing development processes. The framework, which should be adapted and evaluated in situ, potentially also informs other actors in the built environment—including architects, landscape architects, urban designers, planners, developers and government agencies. In Aotearoa New Zealand, where housing provision occurs within a colonial context, government agencies have obligations under Te Tiriti o Waitangi to actively protect Māori rights and to work in partnership with Māori in housing policy and delivery. This underscores the importance of placemaking practices and interventions that are culturally and contextually responsive. Full article

This study investigates the influence of rear setback geometry and façade design parameters on microclimatic conditions, indoor thermal comfort, and energy performance in multi-story residential buildings in hot arid climates, addressing the growing need for climate-responsive design in regions with extreme temperatures and high solar radiation. Despite increasing interest in sustainable strategies, the combined effects of urban geometry and building envelope design remain underexplored in these environments. A coupled simulation framework was developed, integrating ENVI-met for outdoor microclimate modeling with Design Builder and EnergyPlus for dynamic building performance analysis. A total of 270 simulation scenarios were examined, combining three rear setback aspect ratios (1.5, 1.87, and 2.25), three window-to-wall ratios (10%, 20%, and 30%), three glazing types (single-, double-, and triple-pane), and two wall insulation states, using customized weather files derived from microclimate simulations. Global sensitivity analysis using rank regression and multivariate adaptive regression splines identified the glazing type as the most influential parameter (sensitivity index ≈ 0.99), especially for upper floors. At the same time, higher aspect ratios reduced peak Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET) by up to 5 °C and decreased upper-floor cooling loads by 37%, albeit with a 9.3% increase in ground-floor cooling demand. Larger window-to-wall ratios lowered lighting energy consumption by up to 35% but had minimal impact on cooling loads, whereas wall insulation reduced annual cooling demand by up to 29,441 kWh. The results emphasize that integrating urban morphology with optimized façade components, particularly high-performance glazing and suitable aspect ratios, can significantly improve thermal comfort and reduce cooling energy consumption in hot arid residential contexts. Full article

Many similarities can be observed among the timber structures that were built in ancient Japan, China, and Korea, bearing witness to the exchanges between these countries. Japan and China had technical manuals that contributed to the development of architecture in each country. Korea might also have had such manuals, but none have been found. In this study, the author analyzed a Chinese technical manual, the Yingzao Fashi, to derive its system for determining the proportions of architectural elements. The author then applied this system to the dimensions of historic buildings in Korea and Japan to obtain insights into proportionality in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean architectural elements. Full article

While increasingly popular for their aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency, reflective materials may also create harsh glare, disorientation, and psychological strain. Despite their prevalence in modern architectural design, the impact of these facades on mental well-being remains underexplored. Drawing from environmental psychology and perceptual science, this study assesses how different reflective materials influence both visual perception and psychological response, particularly among residents and students in Leicester. Two contrasting case studies, the reflective metal Highcross centre facade and the reflective glass Mattioli Woods PLC facade, served as focal points. Using a structured online questionnaire incorporating visual stimuli and Likert-scale questions, responses from 30 participants were analysed using descriptive and statistical analysis (i.e., one-way ANOVA) to determine differences in visual discomfort (due to brightness, glare, or shine), visual attractiveness, visual disorientation, and perception of the surroundings, as well as the associated physiological responses such as stress, tension, and mood. Results show that the Highcross Centre facade was consistently perceived as more visually discomforting and disorienting than the Mattioli Woods facade, with statistically significant differences. However, both facades were rated similarly high for visual interest, suggesting that aesthetic value can coexist with discomfort. Finally, the analysis shows that buildings’ reflective facades evoke only low levels of perceived stress, tension, or unease, with median scores remaining low overall. These findings highlight the importance of human-centred facade design, suggesting that, as cities adapt to climate change, architects and urban planners consider not only environmental performance but also perceptual and psychological effects. Full article

This Reprint title—‘Biophilic School Design for Health and Wellbeing’—suggests the coverage of a range of factors through which it is contended that key elements of nature and the built environment have a direct link to the health and wellbeing of students and teachers [...] Full article

Natural ventilation could be established as an effective passive design strategy for increasing air changes per hour in a built environment. Modern air conditioning systems often fail to provide sufficient fresh air, potentially causing health issues for occupants. In contrast, natural ventilation offers an effective alternative for maintaining sufficient indoor air quality in buildings. This study explores the application of grouped airfoil arrays on building façades as an innovative passive design to enhance the air change rate. Numerical simulations were conducted to analyze various airfoil configurations, determining the most effective design for building a façade. Three groups, including symmetrical, semi-symmetrical, and flat-bottomed grouped airfoils, were selected according to their aerodynamic properties and potential impacts on airflow dynamics. For this purpose, a typical high-rise residential building was selected as a case study for field measurement and CFD simulation. The results indicated that symmetrical airfoil arrays could increase the air changes per hour (ACH) up to 23 times per hour with a wind velocity of 0.37 m/s at 10 m above ground, whereas their bidirectional performance ensured stable airflow regardless of wind direction. Although semi-symmetrical airfoil arrays maximize air capture and induce beneficial turbulence, the ACH within a residential unit was boosted up to 16 times per hour under the same outdoor wind velocity conditions. The ACH was 14 times per hour for the flat-bottom airfoils, serving as a comparative baseline and providing insights into the performance advantages of more complex designs. Full article

Climate change threatens the sustainability of historic buildings with increasing extreme weather events, making energy resilience critical. However, studies on energy resilience often lack forward-looking, holistic approaches. This study aims to develop a conceptual framework that includes how Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies can support energy resilience in historical buildings with data-driven prediction and analysis to increase energy resilience against climate change. This study applied a methodology with four-stage qualitative research techniques, including a systematic literature review (PRISMA method), content analysis, AI integration, and conceptual framework development processes, in the intersections of historical building, energy resilience, and climate change. The findings reveal a significant research gap in the predictive analysis of the resilience of historic buildings and the integration of AI-based tools in the context of climate change. The proposed framework outlines a multi-layered system that includes data collection, performance analysis, scenario-based prediction, and AI-assisted decision-making, aiming to enhance the resilience of the building (including building envelope, thermal, and lifecycle analysis). Consequently, this study provides a theoretical and methodological perspective and proposes a scientifically based and applicable roadmap. It also highlights the potential of AI as a bridge between energy resilience and historical buildings in the face of a rapidly changing climate. Full article

Authenticity in heritage conservation is theoretically and practically complex, dynamic and frequently contested. In conservation practice, through the decisions directing the processes of protection, restoration, adaptation, presentation and interpretation, there will be multiple interpretations of what denotes authenticity, and what is considered to be authentic by different actors. The purpose of the paper is to discuss alternative approaches to the determination of authenticity within the framework of current day conservation theories and heritage discourses. In this paper I propose that authenticity is situation specific and exists on a scale and as such is determinable using cultural perspectives and value-based assessment tools. Positioning authenticity as being dynamic and situation-specific, this research sets out to construct a framework through which the different perspectives involved in decision making are better acknowledged and the determinants of authenticity can be more clearly captured. The research utilizes the context of urban heritage conservation in the Arabian Peninsula to demonstrate how different approaches to conservation are evaluated in terms of authenticity. Full article

Despite a global trend toward socially engaged higher education, architectural pedagogy continues to grapple for a coherent approach that systematically and genuinely integrates socio-cultural dimensions into design studio teaching practices. Defined as the interwoven social, cultural, and political factors that shape the built environment, the socius is treated peripherally within architectural pedagogy, limiting students’ capacity to develop civic agency, spatial justice awareness, and critical reflexivity in navigating complex societal conditions. This article argues for a socius-centric reorientation of architectural pedagogy, postulating that socially engaged studio models, which include Community Design, Design–Build, and Live Project, must be conceptually integrated to fully harness their pedagogical merits. The article adopts two lines of inquiry: first, mapping the theoretical underpinnings of the socius across award-winning pedagogical innovations and Google Scholar citation patterns; and second, defining the core attributes of socially engaged pedagogical models through a bibliometric analysis of 87 seminal publications. Synthesising the outcomes of these inquiries, the study offers an advanced articulation of studio learning as a process of social construction, where architectural knowledge is co-produced through role exchange, iterative feedback, interdisciplinary dialogue, and emergent agency. Conclusions are drawn to offer pragmatic and theoretically grounded pathways to reshape studio learning as a site of civic transformation. Full article

This paper presents the development and structure of a geospatial (work in progress), architectural heritage database designed to document, interpret, and valorize Second World War military fortifications in Sardinia. Currently hosting over 1800 georeferenced entries—including bunkers, artillery posts, underground shelters, and camouflage systems—the database constitutes the analytical core of an interdisciplinary research framework that interprets these remnants as a coherent wartime palimpsest embedded in the contemporary landscape. By integrating spatial data, archival sources, architectural features, conservation status, camouflage typologies, and both analog and digital graphic representations, the system operates as a central infrastructure for multiscale heritage analysis. It reveals the interconnections between dispersed military structures and the wider territorial fabric, thereby laying the groundwork for landscape-based interpretation and site-specific reactivation strategies. More than a cataloging tool, the database serves as an interpretive and decision-making interface—supporting the generation of cultural itineraries, the identification of critical clusters, and the design of adaptive reuse scenarios. While participatory tools and community engagement will be explored in a second phase, the current methodology emphasizes landscape-oriented reuse strategies based on the perception, spatial storytelling, and contextual reading of wartime heritage. The methodological synergy between GIS, 3D modeling, traditional drawing, and archival research (graphic and photographic documents) contributes to a holistic vision of Sardinia’s wartime heritage as both a system of knowledge and a spatial–cultural resource for future generations. Full article

This study investigates how augmented-reality (AR) technology can enhance the presentation and preservation of cultural heritage, using Kayseri Castle as a case study. Although previous studies have explored AR applications in heritage contexts, few have addressed their role in representing multi-layered architectural histories of complex sites. The research focuses on the development and evaluation of the KAISAREIA-AR application, which integrates historical, architectural, and cultural narratives into an interactive AR platform. By reconstructing the castle’s distinct historical layers—spanning the Roman, Seljuk, Ottoman, and Republic periods—the study seeks to assess AR’s effectiveness in providing immersive visitor experiences while maintaining the authenticity of heritage sites. Three-dimensional models of the castle were created using 3ds Max, enriched with visual and auditory information, and deployed via Unity software on wearable AR devices. The study employed the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to evaluate the application’s usability and impact on user engagement. The findings indicate that AR significantly enhances the accessibility, understanding, and appreciation of cultural heritage by providing dynamic, immersive experiences. The KAISAREIA-AR application demonstrated its potential to bridge historical authenticity with modern technology, offering a replicable model for integrating AR into cultural heritage conservation and education. Full article

Residents’ values in social housing retrofit extend beyond energy efficiency targets to encompass complex social and physical considerations, shaping their acceptance and experience of interventions. These values appear to influence retrofit success yet are often overlooked in policy and practice that prioritise technical performance. This paper investigates what residents value in social housing retrofit through a focus group method with the Sutton Estate in London, combining institutional stakeholder (housing association and architect) and resident perspectives. Content analysis of focus group questionnaires, discussions, and consensus-building activities revealed four key resident values: (1) good stakeholder relationships, emphasising trust-building through personal connections; (2) access to information, requiring clear, continuous communication through multiple channels; (3) comfort, health, and safety, integrating physical and mental wellbeing; and (4) building and community longevity, focusing on preserving building character and social sustainability. The findings suggest that social housing retrofit may benefit from a holistic approach integrating residents’ values throughout the project lifecycle, addressing the social, physical, and long-term sustainability of homes and communities. The findings highlight the importance for housing associations, architects, and policymakers to consider residents’ values when developing retrofit strategies, balancing technical requirements with residents’ needs and priorities. Full article

Lion Grove was established in 1342 during the Yuan Dynasty and is one of the four most famous classical gardens in China. It was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. Although Lion Grove is now regarded as a private garden representing the culture of Confucian scholars, it was originally a Chan Buddhist garden during its inception in the Yuan Dynasty. This study examines the natural landscapes of Lion Grove at its inception, focusing on four main aspects: the philosophy of nature, planning intent, creators, and the philosophical ideas they represent. Key findings include the following: Firstly, Lion Grove’s attitude towards nature is rooted in China’s indigenous culture, making it both a physical expression of Chan philosophy and a space reflecting the scholar–bureaucrats’ vision of an ideal landscape. Secondly, from the perspective of landscape planning, the Lion Grove of the Yuan Dynasty placed greater emphasis on natural elements compared to its modern counterpart, with rock landscapes serving as the core element throughout the garden. Thirdly, hermitic philosophy emerged as a significant cultural theme alongside Chan Buddhism during the Yuan Dynasty. Fourthly, the landscape elements of Lion Grove symbolize Chan Buddhist wisdom and the hermit’s idealism, with poetry playing a key role in conveying these cultural ideals, preserving the site’s early philosophical significance. Full article

Advanced technologies increase both the speed and the efficiency of work, saving time and money for practitioners. These technologies manifest in tools and resources that equip professionals across various sectors to carry out their work more effectively. Unfortunately, these resources can be confusing, convoluted, and critically misunderstood. Therefore, understanding emerging and advanced technology positions professionals to fill in gaps in knowledge and provides unrivaled value for the profession. This study examines advanced technology in the field of landscape architecture, analyzes applications of tools and resources, and provides a guide for implementation to answer the following research question: How can UAVs improve site analysis workflows for small landscape architecture firms? Focused on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), the discussion finds a multi-resource workflow leads to higher quality data, faster analysis, and more targeted solutions. Full article

Public open spaces have recently attracted significant attention in the national development programs aimed at improving urban livability and quality of life in Saudi Arabia. While many studies have examined the design quality of public open spaces in the country, a contextualized evaluation index that takes into account users’ preferences and the nation’s social context is still lacking. This gap calls for additional field studies to better understand users’ needs and their interactions with the current urban design practices of public open spaces. This study provides deeper insights into the design quality of public open spaces in Saudi Arabia. The study first identified 16 attributes of design quality of public open spaces, and then assessed a case study, Alrabie Park in Al-Khobar city, based on field observation and a survey of users’ satisfaction levels in relation to these quality attributes The findings revealed that the average of users’ satisfaction was 3.76 out of 5.0, indicating a neutral to satisfied response. Key strengths were noted in accessibility and users’ comfort, while areas needing improvement included environmental quality and amenities and services. The study recommends the development of a national evaluation index for public open spaces to create inclusive, safe, and vibrant environments that reflect Saudi Arabia’s urban and socio-cultural context. It also emphasizes the importance of community engagement in this regard to ensure that the design of public spaces aligns well with the users’ needs and helps to create sustainable urban spaces in the city. Full article