Architectural Technology and Sustainability
Research Coordinator: Paulo P. Almeida
The research line “Architectural Technology and Sustainability” focuses on the development of architectural solutions that integrate technological innovations and principles of environmental sustainability, exploring the application of new technologies in the design, construction, and management of the built environment. This approach covers topics such as digital prototyping, BIM, energy efficiency, and bioclimatic design, aiming to optimize building performance in terms of environmental comfort and ecological impact. It thus promotes the investigation of sustainable construction systems and the use of advanced technologies for architecture that responds to contemporary and future needs. Addressing these objectives, the line develops three sublines, focusing on specific themes that address architectural technologies and sustainability questions from different angles, readings, and scales.
The first subline focuses on Technology and Digital Representation by investigating digital tools applied to the architectural creation process. This line investigates the application of new digital representation techniques, which are fundamental for the development of complex and innovative projects, where such tools allow a broader understanding and manipulation of shapes, spaces, and materials. The research aims to expand the number of tools available for the creative process in architecture, particularly through digital simulations that qualify both the design and construction of buildings.
The second subline addresses Project Technology and Management, focused on improving projects in a broad sense, from the planning phase to their execution. Here, topics such as construction management, project scheduling, and information flow are explored. The research focuses on the development of methodologies that improve the efficiency and quality of architectural projects, ensuring effective coordination between the parties involved in the construction process. Another crucial point in this topic is the application of quality and construction management concepts, which aim to integrate innovative practices in construction, ensuring that projects comply with the highest technical and regulatory standards, thus contributing to economic viability and sustainability.
One of the main approaches is biomimicry, where the study of natural systems inspires the development of more efficient projects that are integrated with the environment. Another topic of interest is urban agriculture, with investigations that explore the integration of food production within the city, promoting sustainable urban planning practices. This line aims to transcend conventional sustainability, seeking new forms and strategies for the Architecture of the Anthropocene, a period in which human activities have a significant influence on the climate and ecosystems.
Within this conceptual frame, this research line has focused on process, product, and performance in Architecture, always working in close collaboration and coordination with the other lines of LabiArq. It aims to support the development of research in architecture from the perspective of technologies, establishing a link between current research in technology and the various fields of Architecture, particularly crossing research with the Dwelling and Memory research lines. Furthermore, it seeks to contribute to the scientific progress of research in the field of Architecture while establishing partnerships between academic circles, public research, and scientific research support institutions. Another goal is to support scientific production through the supervision of post-doctoral studies, doctoral theses, master’s degrees, books, book chapters, communications, and participation in national and international scientific events. Finally, it aims to contribute to the development of technological innovation in Architecture in partnership with government institutions, industry, and civil society.