Designing Resilient Landscapes through Science and Practice
Laboratory of Design Science and Landscape Planning
– Misato Uehara
Applying Science to Real Places: Practicing Design as a City Doctor
I conduct research and field experiments to transform valuable knowledge into real-world solutions for communities around the globe.
Misato Uehara, PhD
Professor, Doctor of Design, National Shinshu University (Japan)
Japan Delegate to the International Federation of Landscape Architects (2016–2024)
Trained in Design Sciences —a transdisciplinary field combining architecture, urban planning, and landscape design— Dr. Uehara completed his doctoral research on applying ecological planning to promote sustainable land use. His work bridges the gap between design practice and academic research.
He is a leading ”Design Science” practitioner in disaster prediction and recovery planning, integrating Ian McHarg's "Design with Nature" approach with Japan’s 1980 National Environmental Inventory developed by the former National Land Agency. His overlay mapping project contributed to population recovery following the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami.
His contributions have been recognized with awards, including:
IFLA AAPME Outstanding Award (2018)
Good Design Award (2021)
IFLA APR Luminary Award (2023)
Reconstruction Design Research Award "Best Research Award"(2024)