Applied Research

Great design starts with deep curiosity—to gain empathy, to break out of norms and to test creative intuition. Research is not an end in itself, but a means by which we create better buildings.

Featured Research Insight

The Future Lab: What a Global Survey of Scientists Says About Tomorrow’s Research Buildings

Through our research programs, we harvest insights from social science, neuroscience, materials science and other fields to improve the design of buildings and cities. Learn more about each of our research initiatives.

Now in its tenth year, our fellowship program with molecular biologist, professor and New York Times bestselling author Dr. John Medina explores the links between the cognitive neurosciences and the built environment. Through our partnership, we’ve applied neuroscience insights across projects—from encouraging movement and choice in behavioral healthcare to integrating biophilic design in workplaces for mental and physical well-being.

As the founding architectural sponsor of the University of Washington’s College of Built Environments research consortium, we translate research into action by creating innovative design solutions to common problems facing our clients. We've developed sustainable materials that reduce noise—a common complaint and barrier to productivity—in offices and hospitals; studied how space affects creativity and flow in the workplace; and explored strategies to encourage greater movement in the built environment.

For all the insight that research provides, it must be grounded in the physical. Across all disciplines, we practice the art of making, from handcrafted furniture and rapid prototyping to artwork and physical models connected to digital tools. Examples include a façade mock-up to test the potential carbon-neutrality of a high-rise; software that allows us to see spaces through of the eyes of patients with visual impairment; and the incorporation of cross-laminated timber in healthcare environments.

Because science and creative intuition are harmonious partners, we apply research into our planning and design services to enhance the value of our clients’ programs, aesthetics, and delivery. As a firm, we proudly advance the practice of design, making NBBJ the only firm to receive Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies award five times.

A "Smart Watch" for the Office: Workplace Design that Facilitates Flow

With the University of Washington, we explore office design solutions that provide mental and physical cues to reset throughout the day.

The Overlooked Workplace

Research from NBBJ and the University of Washington spotlights the need to focus on the healthcare workforce.

Through Their Eyes: How Research-Based Simulations Create Empathetic Buildings

Translating research into empathetic design solutions for specific patient populations.

A Quiet Building Is a Healthy Building

In partnership with the University of Washington, we research strategies to overcome a common barrier to productivity: noise.

Ohana Center for Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health, Courtyard

A Quiet Building Is a Healthy Building

In partnership with the University of Washington, we research strategies to overcome a common barrier to productivity: noise.

Hope, Healing and Healthcare

NBBJ Fellow Dr. John Medina outlines five neuroscience-based design strategies to support healthcare workers and their patients.

The 40% Office: How to Optimize Your Workplace for Today’s Behaviors and Business Needs

Created in partnership with Harvard professor Raj Choudhury, the 40% Office provides a framework for when and what work happens together—and what that means for office design.

The 40% Office: How to Optimize Your Workplace for Today’s Behaviors and Business Needs

Created in partnership with Harvard professor Raj Choudhury, the 40% Office provides a framework for when and what work happens together—and what that means for office design.

How Space Impacts Creativity in the Hybrid Workplace

In our latest collaboration with the University of Washington, we explore three design solutions to encourage creativity at home and in the office.

When Craft Meets Comfort

Furniture that is comfortable and safe can be hard to find for people in distress. So on a recent behavioral health project, we met with patients and then designed our own.

How Do You Redefine and Create a New Rhythm of Life?

An evidenced-based approach to elevate workplace experience, health and performance.

Four Strategies to Reduce Stress as People Come Back to the Office

Applying neuroscience principles to foster comfort and improve workplace health.

Applied Research

Applied Research Programs

Through our research programs, we harvest insights from social science, neuroscience, materials science and other fields to improve the design of buildings and cities. Learn more about each of our research initiatives.

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