research is central to the study of architecture in the edinburgh school of architecture and landscape architecture (esala). it motivates our intellectual and creative activities and underpins our collaborations with a range of important international and uk-based institutions. we actively promote interdisciplinary approaches to research in architecture. our expertise and interests range across the following areas: **architectural conservation** our focus includes: * conservation theory and history * urban conservation * conservation technology * the challenges of bridging heritage and new architecture **architectural history, theory and criticism** we have particular strength in: * the history of architecture in britain and the british colonial world (18th and 19th centuries) * germany, central europe and russia * modernism in europe, north america and africa * renaissance italy * the history of landscape * the history of technology * the international history of mass housing and urban development * the theory and philosophy of architecture * the philosophy of place * critical inquiry and methodology **design-led research and studio practice** we focus on: * research in and through design, as informed by contemporary architectural and cultural theory * studio pedagogy * research-led teaching * methodologies of urban research and fieldwork **technology, environment and sustainability** we offer expertise in: * lightweight steel structures * the building envelope * design and manufacturing * sustainable design in both qualitative and quantitative senses, looking at environmental response, design theory, rural planning and user-centred solutions **interior design** our focus includes: * lighting design * adaptive re-use * exhibition design, theory, history * interior histories * digital interiorities