Astrid Schmeing

Professor Astrid Schmeing is a distinguished academic at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences, where she serves as Professor of Urban Planning, Urban History, and Design since 2009. Her academic career spans multiple institutions including FH Münster and Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), with teaching experience at the Architectural Association in London and Ohio State University. She currently holds additional roles as Research Officer, Library Officer, Module Rail Officer, and Department Council Officer within the Faculty of Architecture.

Professor Schmeing's academic background includes:

• Master of Arts in Histories & Theory of Architecture from the Architectural Association, London (1999, with distinction)
• Master of Architecture from Ohio State University, Columbus (1995, good grade)
• Diploma Engineer of Architecture from FH Münster (1994, excellent grade)
• Training as a Draftsperson in Gronau (1988)
• Graduation from Higher Commercial School in Gronau (1986)

Her research focuses on urban planning, urban history, and design with particular emphasis on the concept of the 'Intermediate City' (Zwischenstadt). She explores sustainable urban development, future city centers, and the transformation of post-war modern housing. Her work challenges traditional spatial models through projects like 'Zukunft Mollerstadt' and 'The Donut Effect,' integrating theoretical frameworks with practical applications across European city regions.

Professor Schmeing's publication trajectory shows a clear progression toward transdisciplinary approaches to urban design, with increasing focus on sustainable development of city centers and town districts. Her recent work combines historical urban analysis with forward-looking scenarios, addressing contemporary challenges of urban transformation through collaborative research initiatives like the s:ne project.

Her professional development was supported by prestigious scholarships:

• Fulbright Scholarship (1994-1995)
• J. Owen Scholarship (1995)

Professor Schmeing actively supervises student projects on urban planning and design topics, while leading significant research initiatives including the 'Innovative University: h_da Project s:ne' since 2018. She collaborates extensively with the Schader Foundation on exhibitions and scenario workshops, and previously participated in the 'Wie Wohnen' research project on post-war modern housing and the 'Zwischenstadt' research project examining intermediate cities in European urban regions.

She maintains an active research environment through the s:ne System Innovation for Sustainable Development project, collaborating with students, Katja Hofmann (Urban Planning Tutor), Friederike Hoßfeld, and partners at the Schader Foundation. Her work integrates theoretical exploration with practical urban interventions, creating a dynamic platform for examining urban futures through transdisciplinary collaboration.