Design for Spatial Relations Laboratory

The Design for Spatial Relations Laboratory (DSR.Lab.) operates within the framework of spatial design, an emerging research area that extends beyond the traditional boundaries of product design, interior design, and service design. Our work focuses on investigating the relationships between people, objects, and spaces, exploring the role of design and technology in shaping environments that are in constant transformation.
At DSR.Lab., we adopt an approach to space that is dynamic and multidimensional—not limited to its physical characteristics but also defined by its interactions with objects and technologies. Our research explores temporary, hybrid, and even intangible spaces, requiring analytical tools distinct from those used in conventional design disciplines.
Aligned with contemporary research developments, our investigations extend to sensory and perceptual dimensions of space, including sound, touch, and olfaction, which enrich and expand the ways in which environments are conceived and experienced.

Research and academic activities
DSR.Lab. carries out a wide range of research, educational, and design activities, including:
- Applied research and international collaboration
Development of research projects in partnership with international universities, public institutions, and private entities, with methodological support and project monitoring.
- Innovative solutions for spatial design
Study and implementation of theoretical and technical design strategies to address spatial challenges in collaboration with municipal administrations and territorial authorities.
- Educational programs and knowledge transfer
Organization of training courses, project workshops, and academic support activities for students and researchers from international institutions.
- Scientific dissemination and events
Coordination of conferences, thematic events, exhibitions, and study days, in collaboration with international academic and research networks.
- Academic and research guidance
Theoretical and methodological support for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs focused on spatial design research.
- Visiting researchers and faculty collaboration
Hosting of national and international scholars engaged in study and research activities within specific agreements with their respective institutions.
- Internships and post-graduate opportunities
Support for curricular and post-graduate internships, offering students hands-on experience within ongoing research projects.
- Smart and sustainable design innovation
Research and development of advanced design concepts for home automation, the internet of things (IoT), and smart furniture systems, aimed at enhancing living and urban environments.
- Prototyping and technological integration
Development of experimental prototypes that examine the interactions between objects, spaces, and technologies, leading to the creation of intelligent furnishings for domestic and urban contexts.
- Knowledge hub and resource center
Establishment of a specialized database and library collection, fostering the dissemination of knowledge on spatial design research.
- Advanced digital tools and applications
Access to specialized software and technological resources in:
1. Lighting design (Radiance, DiaLux, Relux, LD Assistant)
2. Home automation (Nest, Kasa, Stringify)
3. Sustainable and green design (IScape, MyPlants, Botanicalls, Edyn Garden Sensor)
4. Sound and acoustic design

Key areas of research and design
furniture systems and product design
smart home and IoT integration
exhibition and retail design
smart cities and hybrid urban environments
urban regeneration and temporary urban design
interior design 4.0
sustainable and green design
narrative and experiential design
multimedia and visual design

For further information, research collaborations, or project proposals, we invite you to contact us!