Dogmas, Pixels, Scripts, Types, and Other Matters of Bordering in Architectural Research

In architecture, the determination of a suitable research approach holds unprecedented significance compared to other fields. The intricate interplay between scientific, artistic, and humanistic domains within architectural design renders its boundaries ambiguous, methodologies diverse, and objectives multifaceted. Moreover, the design process necessitates a constant oscillation between theory and practice, demanding a thoughtful exploration of the positioning of architectural research and the establishment of crucial connections between these two realms to generate meaningful knowledge. The primary challenge for emerging researchers and doctoral candidates in this field lies in comprehending the vast expanse within which they must navigate. Recently, various authors and institutions have sought to delineate guidelines and indications with the aim of narrowing the action of architecture research. Among these, the “EAAE Charter on Architectural Research” (2022), drafted by the European Association for Architectural Education, stands as the principal reference document for architectural schools and universities, including the Politecnico di Milano and the AUID doctoral program.