Design, Theory and Practice (DTP)
Group Leader(s): Mr Scott Sworts
Contact: ssworts@brookes.ac.uk
About us
The Design, Theory and Practice (DTP) group undertakes design research produced inside and outside the discipline of architecture in order to facilitate the advancement of architectural research as a creative practice. The group explores the relationship between the theory and practice of design-based research in architecture.
Members undertake research using methods typically used in architectural design as well as methods from other disciplines including:
- Architectural drawing/modelling/prototyping/live projects
- Installation design and exhibition
- Interior architecture
- Painting and non-architectural drawing
- Filmmaking and documentary making
- Photography
- Hypermedia and creative writing
- Building information modelling
- Virtual environments
- Digital making
Part of
Related courses
- Architecture (BA (Hons))
- Applied Design in Architecture (ARB and RIBA part 2) (MArchD)
- Architecture (MArch)
- Interior Architecture (BA (Hons))
Research impact
The research done in this group informs professional practice and explores the relationship between theory and built form. Our projects are wide ranging, looking at broad spectrum of topics as diverse as:
- live builds
- the impact of architectural design on the justice system
- how architecture can promote mental and physical wellbeing.
Using an evidence-based approach, and in collaboration with government and pressure groups, our research has resulted in the improvement of access to justice and improvements to the design and operation of justice facilities. In addition to these areas of inquiry, members of this group also research the more traditional architectural subjects such as the intersection of art and architecture, and how digital technologies are transforming the profession.