ABSTRACT
This chapter reflects on the use of design as a research method, and on the designerly ways of knowing that underpin such approaches. Whilst some controversy exists around the relationship between design and research, this chapter argues that design can be both a research method – research as design – and a focus for research itself – design as research. The arguments are illustrated through two major urban design projects, in Karbala (Iraq) and Hong Kong. In these I acted as both a designer and a researcher, immersed in the larger design / development team. Research of this type can be hugely valuable to both the local urban design process (offering perspective and rigour) and also for the larger insights it offers of more general application to knowledge about design and development processes.
