The research group Architecture + Interior (A+I) seeks multi-and interdisciplinary study, research and community service regarding processes of sustainable transition of the built environment. Its operations cover both the movable and the immovable assets and extends from the furniture, interior design and building of the city and the countryside. The activities involve design-based, cultural, historical, social, economic and technical aspects of the different spatial scales. In addition, it also aims to related issues on a meta-level, such as methodology of design, research and education, and assessment frameworks. This approach connects the various substantive aspects of the broad field of action and creates a well-founded structure with a significant return for the research and nexus with education.
The group's vision is to strengthen its strategic position as an international reference in architecture and interior architecture design research, with a focus on supporting the transition toward a socially and ecologically sustainable built environment.
To promote knowledge sharing and maintain focus within the large group, the Architecture + Interior research is organised into four research areas: Building Culture - History and Theory; Design Studies and Education; Social Awareness and Design; and Technology and Circular Design.
A+I is the new name of the former Henry van de Velde research group, reflecting our expanding international research profile and a clearer expression of our core research areas, while reinforcing our commitment to further developing research and engagement across academic, professional, and societal contexts.
News and events
Exploring Bio‑Based Construction: The MyxArch Arrives at Campus Mutsaard
In the frame of the research seminar “Rethinking Construction Through Bio‑Based Materials” led by Aníbal Maury‑Ramírez, the mycelium arch conceptually designed and curated by Prof. Jan Wurm from the Architecture Faculty of KU Leuven was donated and installed for free exhibition in Campus Mutsaard, Ambtmanstraat 1, s.MU.A.1.03.
Considering the large environmental impacts of traditional construction materials, this bio‑based arch explores the use of mycelium textiles as an alternative material and construction method. Mycelium textiles make use of inexpensive natural fiber resources and bio‑based waste streams from the regional bio‑economy, combined with open‑source biotechnology, to grow building components. The arch, functioning as a post‑tensioned structural system, incorporates non‑woven hemp mats, flax yarn, flax textile, hemp and flax rope, untreated beech timber from the Sonian Forest (Belgium), and mycelium of Ganoderma lucidum. Visit it, discover more technical details, and take a picture with this iconic MyxArch!
Seminar | Mozambique’s Conceptions of Heritage
18 May 2026 - 13:30; Online seminar with real-time translation between English and Portuguese
Join us for a talk exploring how heritage is understood, shaped, and contested in Mozambique.
Attendance is free, but registration is required:
Lectures by Franqui Chair holder - Prof. Dr. Carola Ebert ( Interior Design, History of Architecture, and Design Department at Berlin International University of Applied Sciences )
Inaugural lecture:
Tue, 24.02.2026 - Between Thought and Action. Architecture, Interiors, and the History/Theory-Studio Nexus. 17:00, Main auditorium/Promotiezaal Grauwzusters (Lange Sint-Annastraat 7, Antwerp)
Registration at: https://www.uantwerpen.be/nl/overuantwerpen/faculteiten/ontwerpwetenschappen/nieuws-en-activiteiten/francqui-lectures-2025/
A second lecture:
Tue, 24.03.2026 - Interiors beyond Spaces. Theorising Interior Architecture and Design. Identity, Practices, Education, and Beyond. 17:00-19:00 The Design Sciences-lectures series, A 3.3. (Ambtmanstraat 1, Antwerp)
Research workshop:
Wed 22.04.2026 - Research Workshop “Research <> Design. Reflections on Design Research and Research Design”. 9:30-12:30 - more info will coming soon.
Call for Submissions — Special Issue in Buildings Circular Strategies for the Built Environment: Innovations in Adaptation, Reuse and Recycling
Circular Strategies for the Built Environment: Innovations in Adaptation, Reuse and Recycling
Anibal Maury Ramirez and Mario Rinke are pleased to announce the opening of submissions for the Special Issue “Circular Strategies for the Built Environment: Innovations in Adaptation, Reuse and Recycling” in Buildings. This Special Issue seeks original research articles, reviews, and case studies on circular strategies such as building adaption, components reuse, and materials recycling.
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 September 2026. Further information and submission details: Buildings | Special Issue : Circular Strategies for the Built Environment: Innovations in Adaptation, Reuse and Recycling
