The Burden of Research in Architecture

Why do researchers not have an equitable share in the glory of being called architects?

Abstract

Architecture can be called a domain of infinite intangible equations. Advancement and innovative technologies in architecture are owed to the researchers who work behind the scenes and bring about these impactful changes. Nevertheless, there seems to be a significant disparity between research practitioners and practitioners in architecture, even with these notable advancements.

Architectural researchers follow a meticulous process that includes understanding the background of field visits and documentation. These steps form a creative journey and involve skills similar to design in terms of generating visuals. Researchers in architecture face the added difficulty of the age-old research methodology clash: quantitative or qualitative? Overcoming these barriers and succeeding as a researcher who contributes to society while maintaining one's individual researcher characteristics is a considerable task.

However, the question arises of why, despite these struggles, researchers in architecture do not have the same recognition that practitioners have and are often classified as second-class citizens in the architectural fraternity. The hypothesis framed in this reflection hopes to show that the field of architecture needs researchers. Especially with the advancement of artificial intelligence, their role becomes primary in contributing to the data pool.

Therefore, the way forward is to give due diligence to architecture researchers and provide ample opportunities and funding while also holistically respecting their role in their community and society.