Studio Futures

Throughout much of the twentieth century, the design studio has been an important locus of invention and experimentation in architecture: both smelter and test-bed for new ideas. But with recent developments in digital technology, new materials and construction practices, shifts in the client-architect relationship, and architectural practice subject to evermoreonerous procurement models, is the studio model still relevant?

Studio Futures examines contemporary practices in design education, with a particular focus on the studio model, to understand how educators are responding to the demands of architectural practice now and into the future.The book includes case studies of innovative studio models together with critical essays that consider the history of the design studio and how it might respond to the changing demands of practice, research, pedagogy and society. In addition, a wider survey of architects enriches this material with observations on the challenges facing the discipline at the coalface of architectural practice. Bringing together leading thinkers from across professional practice and academia, Studio Futures is a sustained reflection on the relevance of the design studio to contemporary conditions. Perhaps more importantly, though, it offers vital insights into what the future might hold for this pivotal platform for architectural education and production.
Professor Donald Bates is a registered architect in Australia and the UK, and is the Director of LAB Architecture Studio. LAB Architecture Studio are the architects of Melbourne's award-winning Federation Square. LAB have completed projects in the UK, China, Singapore, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, as well as Australia. The works of LAB have been exhibited in museums and exhibitions across Australia, Europe and the USA, and have been published in more than fifty international publications.
Vivian Mitsogianni was the founding research leader of the Future Fabric of Cities flagship research program in the RMIT Design Research Institute (2009-2013) and has expertise in facilitating processes for design innovation by combining experimental design practice research and "real world" industry-linked projects. Prior to starting this role, Vivian was responsible for curating the Master of Architecture Design Studios (2001-2009), where she commissioned a number of studios by leading venturous local and international design practices. She has extensive experience in Architectural practice, is a registered Architect and is on the Education Committee of the Australian Institute of Architects (AIA), having also held a position on the AIA Chapter Council (2000-2002).