Making the Case for Practice-Based Research and the Imperative Role of Design Practitioners.

Area of Science:

• Architecture
• Design Research
• Evidence-Based Design

Background:

• Practice-based research (PBR) in design currently lacks a robust framework.
• There is a growing need for integrating research into architectural and design practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To justify the necessity of Evidence-Based Design (EBD) within research-based architectural practice.
• To examine the current state of PBR and propose a modified EBD approach.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of the current state of practice-based research (PBR).
• Application of Friedman's progressive research program framework.
• Case study of a renovated inpatient unit using a modified EBD approach.

Main Results:

• A modified EBD approach was proposed and demonstrated.
• Integrated project teams, particularly design practitioners, were key to successful evidence utilization.
• Findings can inform design decisions and post-occupancy validation.

Conclusions:

• EBD advances the design professions' knowledge base.
• Practitioners are better equipped to protect public health, safety, and welfare.
• Recommendations and resources are provided to support practitioners in research integration.