Research
To develop research for the College of Design's faculty and students in areas of strength such as sustainable design, building systems and technologies, affordable housing, human factors, and the development of computer tools for design assistance and knowledge management.

To attempt to integrate usually separate areas of architectural research into a more coherent whole.

To form interdisciplinary partnerships with other college units as well as other colleges within the University.

Outreach
To develop tools and a knowledge base for the building community and to serve as a state resource for public agencies, building owners and the design professions.

To assist the College of Design in becoming a crossroads or forum where the University, the design professions, the construction industry, and building materials manufacturers come together.

To develop courses for continuing education in the design professions.

Education
To work with the the College of Design and it's other units to integrate building research and teaching.

To support the development of new educational initiatives such as the MS Degree in Sustainablility, and advanced work in areas such as building technology and performance evaluation.