The School of Architecture and Interior Design (SAID) at Canadian University Dubai is dedicated to advancing research that addresses the evolving needs of the built environment. Our work focuses on sustainability, digital transformation, and social innovation, empowering faculty and students to contribute meaningful solutions to global and regional challenges.
Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Our faculty and students engage in innovative, interdisciplinary work to foster a research culture that combines academic rigor with real-world impact. Through applied research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and industry engagement, we prepare the next generation of designers to lead the transition toward a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future that supports both local development and global design challenges.
CUD’s membership in Cumulus, the global association of art and design institutions, strengthens our research ecosystem by enabling international collaboration, knowledge exchange, and best practices in architectural and design education.
Research Streams
The School of Architecture and Interior Design faculty and students engage in innovative, interdisciplinary work focused on sustainability, digital transformation, and the social impact of design towards enhancing the built environment by addressing societal, economic, and environmental challenges. The school prioritizes Cradle-to-Cradle approaches in design to support the transition to a Circular Economy. Critical areas of focus include architectural and urban retrofitting, urban resilience, and the mitigation of climate change effects such as heat islands. These research initiatives are key drivers in transforming curricula and pedagogical strategies, ensuring that future architects and interior designers are well-equipped to reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions with focus on three foundational pillars:
This research stream investigates how design can address complex societal challenges and improve quality of life across different communities. It explores human-centered, participatory, and ethically grounded design approaches that can drive positive and lasting social impact.
Drawing upon literature review, case studies and examples from various sectors, including housing, education, healthcare, and community development, the research herewith conducted aims at highlighting the potential of design-driven interventions to create inclusive, sustainable, and human-centered outcomes. while emphasizing the role of collaboration among designers, policymakers, and local communities.
Furthermore, this research stream delves into the ethical considerations inherent in design for social innovation, emphasizing the importance of cultural sensitivity, participatory approaches, and the empowerment of marginalized voices. By synthesizing insights from design thinking, systems theory, and social science, this research stream should contribute to a comprehensive understanding of how design can serve as a catalyst for positive social change.
Goals:
- Advance applied research that supports social impact and community well-being
- Produce high-impact research publications on the role of design in social innovation.
- Present and collaborate at leading global conferences to advance dialogue on design-driven societal transformation.
Members
This stream focuses on the transformative role of emerging technologies—such as BIM, IoT, Digital Twins, and AI—in reshaping the design, construction, and management of spaces. Researchers explore how digital tools improve sustainability, efficiency, and user experience within the built environment.
Furthermore, the research explores the future prospects of the digitalized built environment, considering emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and generative design. It discusses how these innovations may shape the evolution of cities, buildings, and infrastructure, fostering resilience and sustainability in the face of evolving societal needs and environmental challenges. By synthesizing insights from interior, architecture, engineering, and technology, it embraces the complexity of the ongoing digital transformation in the built environment. The research outcomes aim to inform industry professionals, policymakers, and researchers, fostering a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges associated with the digitalization of the built environment.
Goals:
- Investigate the impact of digital tools on design and architectural practice.
- Explore future trends shaping the evolution of smart and adaptive environments.
- Publish research that advances understanding of digital technologies in architecture and interior design.
- Share findings at international conferences, contributing to global discussions on digital transformation in the built environment.
Members
This research stream explores climate-responsive and nature-based solutions for building and urban environments. It focuses on resource efficiency, materials lifecycle, environmental stewardship, circular economy, and regenerative design strategies that mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Research includes studying global best practices, green building certifications, climate-resilient architecture, and interdisciplinary approaches that link design with environmental science and engineering. The findings from this research stream aim to guide policy, guide practitioners, and prepare the next generation of architects and designers to tackle the persistent climate change challenges ensuring the design industry plays a pivotal role in fostering a sustainable future to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Goals:
- Promote research that supports environmental resilience and carbon reduction.
- Prepare future designers to lead in sustainability-focused practice.
- Publish impactful research that advances sustainable and climate-responsive design.
- Engage internationally through conferences and collaborations to promote design strategies supporting global climate objectives.