Three Horizons Framework
Transforming Architectural Education

Bill Sharpe's Three Horizons framework helps us understand and plan transformative change:

Horizon 1 (Present)

Current architectural education system and practices

Horizon 2 (Transition)

Innovation and adaptation phase

Horizon 3 (Future)

Transformed sustainable architecture education

ATU | CCAE | SETU | TU Dublin | UCD | UL
Horizon 1: Present State

Current Practices

  • Traditional teaching methods
  • Established curriculum structures
  • Existing assessment methods

Challenges

  • Climate crisis response
  • Housing crisis demands
  • Technology integration

Declining Aspects

  • Carbon-intensive practices
  • Outdated methodologies
  • Limited sustainability focus
ATU | CCAE | SETU | TU Dublin | UCD | UL
Horizon 2: Transition Phase

Innovations

  • Digital tools integration
  • Sustainable design practices
  • New teaching methodologies

Adaptations

  • Curriculum updates
  • Assessment evolution
  • Industry collaboration

Emerging Practices

  • Climate-responsive design
  • Social housing solutions
  • Sustainable materials
ATU | CCAE | SETU | TU Dublin | UCD | UL
Horizon 3: Future Vision

Transformed Education

  • Integrated sustainability
  • Adaptive learning systems
  • Technology-enhanced teaching

New Paradigms

  • Zero-carbon design focus
  • Social impact emphasis
  • Circular economy integration

Future Capabilities

  • Climate leadership
  • Housing crisis solutions
  • Sustainable innovation
ATU | CCAE | SETU | TU Dublin | UCD | UL
Implementation Timeline
2024
2026
2029

Phase 1 (H1)

  • Assessment of current state
  • Initial adaptations
  • Stakeholder engagement

Phase 2 (H2)

  • Innovation implementation
  • Curriculum transformation
  • Practice integration

Phase 3 (H3)

  • Full transformation
  • New paradigm establishment
  • Continuous evolution
ATU | CCAE | SETU | TU Dublin | UCD | UL