Brian Holland

Brian Holland is an Associate Professor of Architecture at the Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design, University of Arkansas. He is the founder of Open Set, a research and design studio focusing on architecture, urbanism, and ecology. His work explores the architect’s societal agency and strategies for impactful design. He coordinates the third-year core housing design studio and teaches courses on urban theory, environmental advocacy, and research methods. Holland holds an M.Arch from the University of Pennsylvania and a B.Arch from Cal Poly Pomona.

Education:

• M.Arch, University of Pennsylvania
• B.Arch, Cal Poly Pomona

His research interests include social change through design, housing innovation, and ecological urbanism. His projects like Piggybacking Practices (exhibited at the Venice Architecture Biennial) and publications like Architecture and Social Change reflect these themes. He received awards for teaching and research, including the 2023 Distinguished Faculty Award.

Awards:

• AIA/ACSA Housing Design Education Award (2022)
• University of Arkansas Honors College Distinguished Research and Teaching Award (2023)

He advises the Honors Program at the Fay Jones School, coordinates public lectures, and serves as faculty-in-residence with University Housing. His professional experience spans projects in the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East, emphasizing collaborative and socially engaged design practices.