Research Initiatives and Labs

Uncovering Solutions

At the College of Design, we conduct practical, hands-on research that solves problems, drives prosperity and benefits our communities. Our applied research guides key policymakers and informs how communities and products are designed. And compelling design methods like data visualization and virtual reality tech help bring important concepts to a wider audience. There is value in the work we do. Our world-class research makes a real impact on people’s lives.

Research Initiatives and Labs

Building Energy Technology Laboratory (BETlab)

Healthy architecture embraces sustainable design principles. We conduct research and development of ecologically-responsive building technologies.

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Building Systems Integration

We research how design can improve health and energy performances of the built environment, including structural and environmental elements.

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Coastal Dynamics Design Lab winning submission

Coastal Dynamic Design Lab

We help vulnerable coastal regions address ecological and community development in the face of changing climes.

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Co-Lab

Co-Lab is a collaborative faculty initiative in the College of Design at NC State University.

Co-Lab explores both the theory and application of mapping as a critical research tool, participatory mapping as a dialectical engagement device, and the value of mapping and visualization in fields outside of design.

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Experience Design Lab

A cross-disciplinary community that explores virtual and augmented experiences as a cultural practice.

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Health Centered Design Lab

We design better and more equitable maternal care experiences for mothers and babies.

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Human Centric Technology & Design Lab

The Human Centric Technology & Design Lab (HCT Design Lab) applies a human-centered design approach and emerging technologies to promote health and wellness and enhance user experiences, advancing design research and education within the community.

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Just Communities Lab

The Just Communities Lab aims to support the impact of environmental justice strategies by co-creating with communities.
The new lab explores how we can use landscape architecture, design, and planning to rethink how we protect people, ecosystems, and environments.

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Natural Learning Initiative

We’re at the forefront of childhood development research through landscape architecture initiatives that encourage play.

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Community Growth and Development Initiative image - building blocks

Pappas Real Estate Development Program

We form interdisciplinary partnerships to foster public dialogue about community growth and development, fulfilling NC State’s land grant mission of service to North Carolina’s communities.

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Public Interest Design

Public Interest Design relies on cooperation and collaboration. The design process used follows the SEED process, a holistic, creative approach to design driven by community needs.

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Sharon Joines and Jennifer Peavey in the RED Lab

Research in Ergonomics and Design Lab (RED Lab)

We quantify the interaction between individuals with diverse abilities, products and their environment in consumer markets and manufacturing environments.

Visual Narrative Initiative

As a community of researchers in engineering, design and the humanities, we use new forms of communication to increase the understanding of our past, present and future.