Institute for Urbanism, Architecture and Construction

Ongoing urbanisation and limited resources both require innovative approaches to create sustainable and resilient living spaces. Is a liveable environment just as important to you as it is to us? We are your partner of choice for the design of buildings and settlements that are able to face current and future challenges such as climate change and population growth.

Share your ideas with us!

Competencies for the economy

The design of resilient living spaces for a future defined by climate sensitivity requires specific skills in the areas of sustainable building, urban development, construction and design.

We specialise in:

  • Urban transformation and sustainable spatial development
  • Baukultur theory and history
  • Built environment and historic preservation
  • Design methods and theories
  • Sustainable and climate-friendly design
  • Timber construction
  • Construction and load-bearing structures

Networks and cooperations

We address the challenges of the construction and planning sector in close cooperation with networks that stand for excellence and active exchange. Our overall aim is to develop scientifically sound solutions for the future. We maintain tight connections with SMEs and authorities to create a strong basis for practical implementation. Moreover, we are actively involved in national and international bodies, where we can contribute our expertise and benefit from a wealth of experience.

We participate in the following networks and cooperations:

  • PIONEER University alliance, as a member of research and teaching cooperations aiming to shape the future of integral, sustainable and resilient cities.
    www.pioneer-alliance.eu
  • FUSTIC Association (Future Sustainable Territories, Infrastructure and Cities), as a member of the Research and innovation network for digital technologies and sustainable cities, regions and infrastructure.
    www.epfl.ch
  • SDSN Switzerland (UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network), as an active member in the thematic field Living Spaces.
    www.sdsn.ch
  • SCDH (Swiss Center for Design and Health), as a cooperation partner in ongoing research and teaching projects.
    www.scdh.ch
  • Stadtlabor Biel/Bienne, as one of the co-initiator; office and real laboratory for participatory urban development.
    www.stadtlabor-bielbienne.ch (in german)

Our lecturers and staff are actively involved in various associations, including: