Developing an Evidence-Informed Architectural Framework for Self-Exploration, Multidisciplinary Learning, and Creative Development
Supervisor Name
Wasim Salama
Supervisor Email
Was-s@najah.edu
University
An-Najah National University
Research field
Architecture
Bio
Dr. Wasim Salameh – Academic Biography Dr. Wasim Salameh is an architect and academic at the Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering at An-Najah National University, Palestine. His academic work focuses on architectural design education, building systems, sustainable architecture, and the integration of emerging digital technologies and artificial intelligence into architectural practice and education. He is particularly interested in design for disassembly, adaptive and resilient building systems, and sustainable approaches to the built environment, with an emphasis on local contexts and post-conflict reconstruction. He is also engaged in international academic collaboration and innovative teaching methodologies that promote interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking, and design excellence.
Description
RE:DISCOVER investigates how architecture can support self-exploration, personal development, and the discovery of individual interests through the design of an integrated, multidisciplinary learning environment. The research explores the relationship between spatial design, environmental psychology, restorative environments, sensory experiences, and experiential learning to understand how the built environment can encourage reflection, exploration, creativity, and engagement. The study will examine relevant academic literature and architectural precedents to identify evidence-informed design strategies, including the use of natural elements, daylight, acoustics, materiality, spatial transitions, flexible learning environments, and spaces for individual and collective activities. These strategies will be analyzed in relation to four interconnected stages: reconnecting with oneself, discovering interests and potential fields of engagement, developing skills through exploration and practice, and expressing outcomes through creative, social, or public activities. The research aims to develop an architectural framework that translates these findings into spatial principles, functional relationships, and design criteria for the proposed RE:DISCOVER Institute. Rather than treating the project solely as a building-design exercise, the study seeks to establish a research-based foundation for understanding how architecture can bring together restorative experiences, self-directed exploration, multidisciplinary learning, skill development, and public expression. The project will primarily involve a literature review, comparative architectural case-study analysis, and synthesis of findings into a proposed design framework. Any additional research methods, such as expert consultation, will be determined in coordination with the faculty supervisor and according to feasibility. The intended contribution is an evidence-informed architectural approach that can inform the design of environments supporting personal exploration and creative development.