Abstract This paper presents a comparative study of late Stalinist airport terminals in Kharkiv and Vilnius, examining how a shared Soviet typology generated locally differentiated architectural expressions. Using archival sources, field survey and comparative analysis, it identifies two conservation logics, namely heritage-core preservation through load reduction and adaptive reuse under infrastructural pressure, and argues that architectural value and ideological burden are not mutually exclusive in shaping conservation strategies for dissonant heritage.
Abstract Latvia’s 1980s rural cultural centres, built as multifunctional hubs, are framed by scholars as postmodern resistance to Soviet uniformity, but rural voices are overlooked. Using archival research and oral histories from six communities, this study contrasts professional narratives with local views of pragmatism and utility. Findings show these centres as “lived” social spaces shaped by local leadership, not just “conceived” ideological ones. This repositions them as hybrid artefacts for post-Soviet heritage.
Abstract This article examines the integration of industrial design into art installations as a multidisciplinary approach that redefines urban public spaces. Drawing upon theoretical insights and case studies, the research investigates how the synergy between design and art enhances urban aesthetics and functionality. As a result, such integration positions it as a key strategy for creating vibrant and liveable cities by fostering socially responsive, sustainable, and participatory environments.
Abstract This study makes a significant contribution to the evolving field of strategic facility management by addressing the underexplored intersection of hybrid work models and office space transformation in the post-COVID-19 era. Unlike earlier research that predominantly focused on remote work effectiveness or real estate cost reduction in isolation, this study provides a holistic evaluation of how hybrid work trends are shaping corporate facility strategies in the Baltic context. The originality of the research lies in its empirical basis –grounded in qualitative interviews, survey responses from leading Baltic corporations, and document analysis, which has produced a context-specific framework adaptable to regional economic and social conditions. Another novel contribution is the application of the seven-step redesign process model, developed by the authors, which guides organisations in transitioning from traditional office use to a hybrid work ecosystem. This model integrates technological, psychological, spatial, and managerial components – elements that are rarely combined systematically in similar research. It reflects how organisations can build agility into facility planning while maintaining productivity and employee satisfaction. The study also introduces a nuanced categorisation of office work models in Latvia, such as activity-based offices and shared workplaces, and correlates them with performance metrics. This typology has not been previously explored in the Latvian context with such specificity. By highlighting the diverse interpretations and implementations of hybrid work strategies across sectors, the research challenges the assumption of a one-size-fits-all model and opens new avenues for adaptive facility planning. These findings significantly enrich the academic and practical understanding of post-pandemic workplace restructuring.
Abstract In response to current urban sustainability challenges, biomimicry emerges as a promising approach for creating resilient contextually adapted urban environments. This research explores urban biomimicry through qualitative descriptive analysis and conceptual mapping, identifying the main typologies based on organism, habitat, ecosystem, and abstract natural principles. It further examines urban biomimicry approaches by their degree of bio-integration (from inspiration to ecological integration) and implementation strategies (top-down versus bottom-up), while considering their implications for local ecological and cultural contexts as well as aesthetic expression. Additionally, a graph-based analysis identifies conceptual relationships between biomimicry and New Urbanism (NU), revealing integrative concepts essential for interdisciplinary nature-inspired sustainable urban development.
Abstract The article develops a methodological framework for analysing trajectories of identity reframing and for examining the post-socialist development of monotowns in Eastern and Central Europe. The methodology employs an interdisciplinary comparative case study approach, used as a meta-method and encompassing a multi-level research structure, aimed at providing a foundation for developing recommendations for rethinking Piatykhatky’s (Kharkiv, Ukraine). The methodology can subsequently be applied to other monotowns in Ukraine.
The article examines the evolving cultural-historical identity of the Giedraičių sub-ward in Šnipiškės, Vilnius. It employs a qualitative, interpretative approach that utilises case study methodology and ethnographic elements to investigate the changes in place identity and its physical embodiment. The research identifies cultural and historical identity features as markers in the built environment that can enhance place-making and connectivity between places. Key findings show that the cultural-historical identity of the Giedraičių sub-ward in Šnipiškės is shaped by historical narratives and socio-cultural dynamics, with names such as “Skansen” and “Shanghai” reflecting the multilayered past of the place. The study concludes with recommendations for urban planning that integrate these identities to encourage community engagement and preserve local heritage amidst urbanisation pressures. This study offers valuable insights into the interplay between place identity and urban development and argues for culturally sensitive approaches to urban planning.
Abstract The contemporary built environment, the primary human habitat, contributes significantly to global environmental challenges, such as biodiversity loss and climate change. Consequently, there is an increasing focus on reconnecting urbanism with nature through biomimicry, an approach that draws inspiration from natural systems to design sustainable, self-sufficient, and resilient urban environments. This research explores the hypothesis that natural system principles are inherently present in many contemporary urban development theories, even if not immediately visible, and can support the creation of sustainable urban spaces. By analyzing theories such as new urbanism, smart growth, the 15-minute city, and others, this paper seeks to determine their alignment with biomimicry principles. The research employs both quantitative and qualitative approaches, combining theoretical analysis of natural systems and urban theories with the search for possibilities to apply simulative modelling to assess the specific applicability of biomimetic approaches. The findings of the research highlight that several urban models and theories, including New Urbanism and Alexander’s pattern language, can support biomimicry application, thus allowing us to speak about the inherited urban biomimicry as a phenomenon and look for inspiration not only in nature but also in the urban structures of the past. The conducted analysis also reveals that if the degree of expression of urban biomimicry principles in cities is analyzed, then it is not enough to use qualitative models – quantitative models should be employed for this purpose. The possibility of using Space Syntax-based simulative modelling for the analysis of inherited biomimicry in urban structures is discussed and demonstrated.
Abstract The professions of architecture, landscape architecture, and engineering are responsible for the development of our physical public realm, which impacts the environment, public health, and safety in the public realm. In the various aspects of their work, architects and landscape architects make decisions that affect not only functional matters but also the context of a visually aesthetically pleasing public realm, which they are able to diversify through the placement of diverse, innovative environmental objects in a given public realm. At the same time, designers need to establish links and collaborations with sculptors who are able to transform certain conditions into a contemporary public space, resulting in an engaging, visually aesthetically pleasing public space for all its users. Therefore, the study uses appropriate methods to evaluate various examples of environmental objects exhibited in different landscapes, both in Latvia and abroad, as well as to simultaneously evaluate the international student activity Think out of the BOX, which involves the development of the design of environmental objects from sketch to realisation.
As a well-established paradigm, inclusive design traditionally seeks to enhance the quality of the built environment, going beyond mere barrier-free design and accessibility. A special focus of this paper is on the complex cases of inclusive design, where the experiences of using the same or similar site elements vary significantly. The findings reveal that in three-quarters of the cases, user experiences with similar site elements differ. In nearly half of these instances, the differences in experiences oppose radically. The study underscores the importance for architects and planners to analyse meticulously the tolerance ranges of each user group.
This review examines strategies for implementing property reuse systems in agefriendly social housing development. We analyse research on building selection, property evaluation, design principles, and implementation approaches. The findings emphasise the role of location, community integration, structural suitability, and regulatory compliance. Key success factors include stakeholder engagement, participatory planning, innovative financing and universal design principles, providing information for creating sustainable housing environments for older adults.
Abstract This paper examines the integration of emotional responses and embodied cognition into AI-driven generative spatial design. It defines and validates parameters enabling AI systems to dynamically adjust spatial environments based on human emotions and behaviours. Employing embodied cognition theory, natural user interfaces, comparative software analysis, and machine learning, the authors identify methods to translate human interaction into generative design, laying the groundwork for responsive, emotionally adaptive environments.
Abstract The in-between space is a spatial concept that cannot be defined as either an interior space or an exterior space. It is seen as a bridge between the inside and the outside. The in-between space provides the protection offered by the interior, while at the same time allowing individuals to maintain contact with the outside. The objective of this study was to examine the differences in approaches to the creation of in-between space and the reasons behind the creation of this space between the past and the present. To this end, the study proposed a series of general frameworks for approaches to the creation of in-between space in traditional and contemporary architecture, which were developed through a comprehensive analysis of the extant literature on the concepts of in-between space in both traditional and contemporary architectural practices around the world. Utilising these frameworks, a set of examples of traditional architecture from various regions worldwide (the Middle East, the Balkans, and the Far East) and a set of modern buildings constructed after World War II until the present, from different regions worldwide, were analysed morphologically and spatially. The selection of these examples was based on the literature’s references to the presence of an in-between space. The study's findings revealed that, while the general frameworks are similar, there are remarkable differences in the approaches to the creation of in-between space and the social, functional, and environmental motivations behind its creation between traditional and contemporary architecture, due to the different technological possibilities between the past and present and the complex intellectual backgrounds behind the creation of in-between space in contemporary architecture. The fundamental objective of facilitating human interaction with the external environment persists as the paramount goal in the conception of interstitial space, irrespective of temporal distinctions.
Abstract Designing a new building in a historical environment, which is a reflection of the social, cultural, economic and technological lifestyles from the past to the present, is a process that requires considering many design inputs together, making decisions as a result of serious analysis and multidisciplinary studies. In this sense, choosing the competition method in obtaining a new building that adds value to the historical environment makes the process open to different analyses, interpretations and criticisms. In the evaluation of new building designs in the historic environment, analysing in the light of international conservation documents rather than subjective judgments gives more realistic results. In addition to this, it paves the way for designs that integrate with and add value to the historical environment without harming it, for new buildings to be built in the future. In this sense, this study aims to evaluate the İstiklal Yapı Kredi Culture and Art Centre building, which was designed by Teğet Architecture in a competition project opened in 2010, and after winning the first prize, was constructed on Istiklal Street, Beyoğlu district of Istanbul, meeting the criteria of new construction in the historical environment created in line with international conservation documents and grouped under the following headings: (i) environment, (ii) design, (iii) new addition/building, and (iv) function. Regarding the environmental criteria, it was observed that the building attaches importance to the value of the district in which it is located and contributes to the cultural activities in the environment with its function. Regarding the design criteria, it was seen that the building is in the same dimensions as the design of architect Paul Schmitthenner, with both its volume and gauge, it respects the spirit of the place where it is located and strives to be a part of this whole, but the interventions are not recyclable since it does not contain any remains of the old building. Regarding the new addition/building criteria, it has been observed that the building reflects the time in which it is located with its contemporary design, as well as referring to the previous building. Regarding the function criteria, it has been observed that while the old building was used for cultural functions in addition to the bank function, the function of the new building is completely based on cultural activities and this function is suitable for contemporary life; it provides protection against the risk of İstiklal Street, whose cultural identity is damaged today, turning into a depressed area. According to the results of the evaluation, the Yapı Kredi Culture and Art Centre, which is characterised as the reconstruction of Paul Schmitthenner’s 1958 design, has enriched the historical environment with its design philosophy, function, façade, mass effect and use of materials, as well as exhibiting a respectful approach to the context in which it is located.
The relationship between form and function is probably one of the greatest areas of tension and conflict in architecture, and probably every architect or architectural theorist has already dealt with it. It has been and continues to be the cause of debates and discussions, some of them emotional. The way in which this area of tension is dealt with varies between individual architects and architectural movements. In the following, the relationship between form and function in four architectural movements of the second half of the 20th century will be analysed and compared by using one example of the same typology for each.
Concerns for the common good in urban planning are relevant in many parts of Europe due to financial crises, lack of public resources, and the impact of climate change. The actualisation of the assessment of the common interests of society is also promoted by processes such as the democratisation of governance and the “right to the city” of residents. The study aimed to evaluate existing municipal master plans in Latvia, reviewing the restrictions on property rights, their proportionality, and the argumentation about the common good of society. This was accomplished through content analysis to evaluate the regulatory enactments and the text of the municipal master plans and their amendments, which are available on the GEOLatvia.LV portal. To compare the content of documents, comparative analysis was used (for example, adoption of historical norms, duplication of content, etc.). For document comparison, term matching analysis and other artificial intelligence tools are used. The results of the study concluded that the practice of local governments in the development and content of municipal master plans is diverse. Municipalities interpret the requirements of regulatory enactments that determine the requirements for developing local government plans in different ways. Generally, it can be concluded that the formal implementation of regulatory requirements does not achieve the goal set in the explanations. To improve the quality of explanations and justifications for municipal master plans and their amendments, it is necessary to popularise and promote the use of additional planning tools, such as research and thematic plans, evaluate development scenarios, and justify interventions in planning documents, especially restrictions set by municipalities.
This study charts research on university campus design from 2010 to 2025 using a mixed-methods bibliometric review. Records were retrieved from Scopus and Web of Science, screened with PRISMA, and analysed in VOSviewer and Biblioshiny for performance, collaboration, and thematic structures. The dataset shows sustained growth, with a clear acceleration after 2016 and peak activity between 2021 and 2024. Publication patterns are dominated by journal articles, and disciplinary profiling indicates a strong base in the social sciences alongside substantial contributions from engineering and computer science. Country and institutional maps reveal a concentrated yet international landscape led by the United States, with notable output from China, Australia, and the United Kingdom, and strong clusters around leading universities. Keyword co-occurrence and timeline views highlight three converging trajectories. Sustainability and environmental performance remain central, including life cycle assessment, microclimate, and pedestrian comfort. Digital transformation gains prominence after 2020, covering smart campus instrumentation, information management, and the infrastructural demands of hybrid learning. Human-centred themes persist around students, education, and university life. Gaps include modular and scalable campus typologies, more balanced cross-country collaboration, and stronger evidence on inclusivity, mental health, and community integration. The review provides an up-to-date baseline and a reproducible workflow for future studies, supporting planning approaches that integrate climate responsiveness, data-driven operations, and user well-being.
Abstract The article reviews design research methods such as Design Thinking, the Double Diamond approach, the Triple Diamond design process, and the Agile and Waterfall methods, detailing their application in architecture and in designing wooden facades. It analyses and compares these methods to assess their relevance to architecture. Additionally, the article incorporates sustainability principles, emphasising environmentally responsible design practices such as material efficiency, energy conservation, and the use of renewable resources, critical factors in modern architectural projects. It also aligns these approaches with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, highlighting how design methods can support global objectives such as climate action, sustainable cities and communities, and responsible consumption and production.
Abstract The capital of Catalonia, Barcelona, is one of the most famous centres of Art Nouveau architecture in the history of art. The name of the city is usually associated with the names of the most famous architects of this style – Antoni Gaudí i Cornet, Josep Puig i Cadafalch and Lluis Domènech i Montaner, but a whole galaxy of talented architects worked there, who made a significant contribution to the development of regional architecture. There are several thousand Art Nouveau buildings in Barcelona; however, Art Nouveau dominates the cityscape of this huge city only in certain places. Barcelona’s Art Nouveau reflects the ubiquitous formal language of the style, but it is mostly interpreted in the context of local cultural traditions, acquiring a distinct regional flavour. The articulation of the facades of many Art Nouveau buildings in Barcelona, especially the glazed bay windows, which usually rise almost the entire height of the facade, gives this style a uniqueness found only in Barcelona, which simultaneously reflects both the artistic creativity, construction and structural innovations of its time, and the embodiment of national identity. Art Nouveau, or modernism, is a testament to the pride and creative abilities of the Catalan people. The aim of the article is to reveal the specific features of the work of Barcelona’s architectural masters within the context of the pan-European Art Nouveau language, capturing also the general diversity of formal expressions of the style in the regional context.
The aim of this article is to discuss, through the method of hermeneutic analysis, the nature of Christian eschatology as a observer’s choice in perceiving architectural objects and how this process expands the semantic meanings of an original architectural creation. These meanings may have been implied by the architect but not necessarily intentional. To explore this issue, the study focuses on the only surviving architectural work by the Lithuanian-Polish architect Antanas Vivulskis—the Chapel of the Apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Šiluva (1903–1924)—and the visual solution from the Šiluva Pilgrimage Center’s communication campaign: the conceptual architectural work titled The Cube.
