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Biography

Carmen Garcia Sanchez

Architect

I am an experienced practising architect who graduated from the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), School of Architecture (ETSAM) (1997). I hold a Ph.D. with International Mention in Architectural Design with honours from the same university (2016).

 

I am an Assistant Professor of Ephemeral Architecture at Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid (since 2025) and have recently been a Marie Skłodowska-Curie postdoctoral fellow at the Royal Danish Academy _ Architecture Design Conservation (KADK), in Copenhagen (2020-2024). I have extensive knowledge of the development and management of large architectural projects, which I have integrally designed and directed. My architectural practice spans over 23 years, involving over 135.000 square meters built. I have solid technical skills and knowledge of advanced building design and engineering systems.

 

My research interests primarily encompass artistic research, design by research, biophilic design for health and well-being, contemporary architectural theory, criticism and design, together with innovation in architectural design education. I specialize in modern and contemporary architecture with a strong focus on Nordic and Japanese architecture, emphasis on small scale nature-based-solutions and the creative interaction of tradition and modernity. I am author of an award-winning PhD dissertation "1950 en torno al Museo Louisiana 1970" on postwar Danish domestic architecture (2016). My study offers unique insights relevant to research, architectural history and practice equally, that could also infuse the challenges of contemporary architectural design. I have conducted an individual research project NATURE-IN as the PI, granted by the EC, ENG Scientific area, within the programme H2020 Excellent Science- Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions. My study gains knowledge from some exemplary buildings - in Denmark and Japan - that contribute via rich multi-sensory stimulation to the connection of their users with nature through the experience of the interior space. It provides a catalogue of potential sustainable practical design strategies and recommendations for implementing the nature-inclusive architectural resources of the buildings studied in building practice. The main objective is to phase in biophilic design - an emerging scientific approach - into the domestic built environment, to enhance the health/wellbeing of communities.

 
As an affiliated researcher to the Centre of Excellence for Privacy Studies, at the University of Copenhagen, I work in highly interdisciplinary and international research environments. As a visiting researcher at prestigious research institutions in Japan, Sweden, Denmark and Italy, I have built bridges between institutions in Belgium, Spain, Denmark, Sweden and Japan. Leading international institutions have invited me to present my research. In addition, I have a strong publication history in international high-ranking peer-reviewed conference proceedings and journals and an ambitious track record in obtaining funding for research projects.

 

I teach Ephemeral Architecture (theory and practice), and have taught Spatial Design and  Theory to MA Architecture and Design students at the Institute of Architecture and Design at KADK (2020-2024) after teaching Architectural Design at School of Architecture, UPM, BA Architecture studies (2017-2020). My participation in the exploration of the role of Gamification in Architectural Design Education and my development of innovative education methodologies frame me as an original educator. I have experience in teaching topics such as Nordic and Japanese architectural history, architectural design, biophilic design and the reflection on the domestic and workspace. After developing a strong national and international network, I have built bridges between institutions and have brought a new visibility to Spain, Denmark and Japan. Leading international universities and professional associations have invited me to present my research. I have built a successful and ambitious track record in obtaining funding for international research projects which have been conceived and managed by me. In addition, I have a strong publication record in international high-ranking peer-reviewed conference proceedings and journals. As a leader in my field, I have been an independent evaluator for different postdoctoral recruitment programs, I am an independent reviewer of diverse scientific architecture journals and a member of the external censor corps for artistic higher education in Denmark. Most importantly, I am an external scientific expert and advisor for the European Commission, including the New European Bauhaus. These experiences evidence my skills in extending networks, academic writing, project management and evaluation.

 

This shows my leadership skills, my versatile and original profile and independent thinking. Above all, my aim is to contribute to contemporary urgent challenges, for instance evolving approaches such as nature-based solutions and architecture for health and well-being, linked to ideas of sustainability.


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