Ben Cowd

Ben Cowd is an Associate Professor and Programme Leader of the Master of Architecture (MArch ARB/RIBA Part 2) at De Montfort University's Leicester School of Architecture, within the Faculty of Arts, Design and Humanities. He holds a BA(hons) and MArch from University College London (UCL) and has extensive professional experience, including working at Foster + Partners on international projects in Morocco, Libya, and Switzerland.

Education:

• BA(hons) MArch, University College London (UCL)

His research and creative practice centers on architectural design, digital fabrication, drawing and making, and ecological regeneration through rewilding. His work explores the integration of craft, technology, and environmental responsiveness in architectural form and representation. He has exhibited internationally at venues such as the Royal Academy of Arts, the Venice Biennale, Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, and the Museum of Art and Design in New York.

Ben has received significant recognition, including the prestigious AJ/Lend Lease Grand Award for Architecture from the Royal Academy in 2012 for his project 'Solar Topography in Rome'. His students have won multiple commendations in the RIBA Presidents’ Medals, and many have gone on to work at world-renowned firms such as Foster + Partners, Zaha Hadid Architects, and Thomas Heatherwick Studio.

Professional Recognition:

• RIBA Validation Board Member (UK and International)
• RIBA Educational Publishing Panel
• External Examiner: Plymouth University, Ravensbourne University, London Southbank University
• Invited Judge, RIBA Presidents Medals Bronze Medal (2020)

He is an academic member of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and frequently lectures on his collaborative work with Sara Shafiei (saraben-studio). His influence extends beyond the classroom through exhibitions, publications, and contributions to architectural discourse, including being featured in the film 'How much does your building weigh Mr Foster?'.

Ben leads Unit 1 in the MArch program and oversees architectural technology education, shaping the next generation of architects with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and design excellence.