Thesis (M.S.)--University of Michigan, 1989.

Thesis (M.S.)--University of Michigan, 1989.

Thesis (M.S.)--University of Michigan, 1990.

Thesis (M.S.)--University of Michigan, 1990.

Historically, a disconnect has existed between the education and practice of architecture. Architectural education has long prided itself on the value of creative problem-solving, research, and the fine arts. In contrast, the practice of architecture has evolved to emphasize technical knowledge, specialization, communication, business, and collaboration. This disconnect has led education to miss opportunities to teach students business skills and knowledge required for the workplace, and allowed practice to lose sight of the importance of artistry and research. Architecture educators, students, and practitioners each have a unique set of knowledge and skills to offer the other, and a corresponding set of need and challenges which must be addressed for the profession’s continued success. By analyzing history, current debates in the field, and case studies of current innovative practices and educational models, this thesis addresses these issues with a new model of architectural synergy, embodied through a facility for lifelong learning in architecture. The primary goal of this building is to inspire integrative and collaborative processes between students, researchers, educators, and practitioners to address the current disconnect between them. Through this facility, each group will have the opportunity to leverage their unique strengths and successes to help the others. This collaborative model will allow each role mutually beneficial opportunities for lifelong learning through the exchange of knowledge, ideas, and processes between different groups.