Building a Community Through a Design Build Studio Program

Abstract

This paper aims to provide a comprehensive and critical assessment of the outcomes stemming from a Design-Build program, a pedagogical approach widely adopted by educational institutions worldwide. These programs are instrumental in equipping students with vital practical skills, often unattainable within the confines of a conventional studio environment. While the objectives of this program align with those of similar initiatives in various educational institutions, an examination reveals an unexpected and substantial outcome. Beyond its primary goals, the Design-Build program has played an integral role in instilling a culture of collaboration and camaraderie within the school, thereby significantly contributing to the overall success of its architectural education. All stages of the program consist of collaborative processes, instilling from an early age the importance of working together by helping each other than individual competition. © The Author(s) 2025.