The Perkins and Will Research Journal documents research relating to architectural and design practice. Architectural design requires immense amounts of information for inspiration, creation, and construction of buildings. Although uniform sets of systems, materials and construction processes are considered during this process, every design is an answer to a set of unique questions and circumstances. Therefore, research becomes an integral part of the design and construction of buildings and environments, where inquiry into existing knowledge, study and adaptation to particular circumstances lead to the development of new knowledge.

This issue of Perkins+Will Research Journal includes five articles that focus on diverse topics, such as sustainable design and strategies for achieving carbon neutrality in higher-education facilities, integrated process for systems thinking, computational design in architecture, innovative ways to approach clinical processes that inform the design of healthcare facilities and strategies for designing high-performance interiors.

“A Study for Carbon Neutrality: The Impact of Decisions, Design and Energy” focuses on the factors that impact the carbon footprint of a higher-education facility, particularly a residence hall. The article reviews definitions of carbon neutrality, and stresses the importance of the decision-making process during the design.

“Systems Thinking” covers theoretical groundwork for achieving integration and collaboration for forward-thinking professionals, focusing on sustainable and regenerative design strategies.

“Automating Practice: Defining Use of Computation in the Architectural Design Workflow” discusses computation in architectural design and advancements in digital tools available for exploration of forms and geometries. The article introduces a framework for using computational tools to accelerate and enhance the architectural design process, and reviews implementation of selected applications.

“Clinical Processes Informing the Design of the Emergency Department” examines the relationships between event planning and determination of functional and physical requirements for a healthcare facility.

“Transcending Project Type—Principles for High Performance Interior Design” reviews literature and research associated with characteristics of well-designed interiors for healthcare, commercial and educational market sectors, particularly focusing on strategies that improve productivity, health and well-being of occupants.