Architecture in ecosystemic co-production: disciplinary challenge and design didactics

Authors

  • Marcelo Reyes Busch Universidad San Sebastián
  • Ignacio Saavedra Valenzuela Universidad San Sebastián
  • Drago Vodanovic Undurraga Universidad San Sebastián

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5821/jida.2025.13616

Keywords:

ecosystem services, vertical design studio, biophilia, green infrastructure, ecoarchitecture

Abstract

In a territory where over 40% is protected natural areas and much of the urban fabric consists of fragile ecosystems, architectural education faces the urgency of the global crisis and the regional climate change agenda, which demands concrete responses. In this context, the School of Architecture created a design research space through the Vertical Studio, integrating design studios and theory courses within an ethical framework that conceives architecture as technical mediation for ecosystemic co-production. The analysis examined programs, agendas, and projects under three criteria: disciplinary complexity, territorial situation, and sustainability. Results compared experiences with and without the vertical studio, highlighting the effectiveness of Research by Design, vertical integration, and micro-curricular management in aligning education with sustainability challenges.

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2025-10-28

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