Dana Cuff

Dana Cuff is a Professor at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Architecture and Urban Design. She is the founder of cityLAB, an experimental research and design center that explores metropolitan possibilities, and co-founded coLAB for social and political engagement in Los Angeles neighborhoods. Her work bridges spatial justice, architectural practice, and urban innovation.

• Ph.D. in Architecture, University of California, Berkeley
• B.A. in Design and Psychology, University of California, Santa Cruz

Cuff’s research focuses on equitable cities, affordable housing, and crossdisciplinary urban scholarship. Her 'housing first' approach demonstrates that well-designed, sustainable housing is foundational for social justice. She has pioneered accessory dwelling unit prototypes for infill sites and co-authored California State legislation enabling secondary rental units on 8.1 million single-family lots.

Her recent publications include Architectures of Spatial Justice (2023) and Urban Humanities: New Practices for Reimagining the City (2020), reflecting her commitment to transforming urban landscapes through design activism. Earlier works like The Provisional City (2000) and Fast Forward Urbanism (2011) established her as a leader in experimental urban design.

• Women in Architecture Activist of the Year (2019, Architectural Record)
• Researcher of the Year (2019, Architectural Research Centers Consortium)
• Educator of the Year (2020, American Institute of Architects Los Angeles)
• World Changing Ideas Award (2018, Fast Company)
• Small Building Award (2018, American Institute of Architects National Award)

Cuff’s work extends beyond academia through cityLAB, which was featured at the 2010 Venice Architecture Biennale and named a top urban think tank by Architect Magazine. She collaborates with community organizations to create sustainable, low-cost housing solutions.