Joachim Raab

Joachim Raab is Professor for Fundamentals of Design and Building Theory at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences, where he also serves as Vice Dean and Safety Officer. Previously, he held professorships at the same institution for Fundamentals of Design (2019-2021) and was Acting Professor for Design and Building Theory at TU Darmstadt (2017-2019). He has been a Lecturer in building construction at both TU Darmstadt and Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences since 2015.

Born in Frankfurt am Main in 1977, Raab studied architecture at TU Darmstadt from 1997 to 2005, earning his degree as a graduate engineer. His academic journey progressed from Research Associate at TU Darmstadt (2008-2014) to his current professorship since 2021.

Raab's research and professional interests center on architectural design principles and building theory, with particular emphasis on sustainable architecture, historic preservation, and urban development. His work demonstrates a strong commitment to integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications, especially in the renovation and adaptive reuse of existing structures. He has developed specialized expertise in balancing historical preservation with contemporary design needs while incorporating sustainable practices.

His extensive portfolio of architectural competitions reveals consistent focus on educational facilities, residential buildings, and urban development projects. A significant portion of his work addresses building renovation, reflecting his specialization in transforming historic structures for modern use while respecting their cultural significance. His projects often demonstrate innovative approaches to sustainable design within the constraints of existing buildings.

Scientific Awards

• 2018: Auszeichnung Guter Bauten in Hessen, Johann-Wilhelm Lehr-Plakette
• 2017: Architekturpreis Gebäudeintegrierte Solartechnik, Anerkennungspreis
• 2017: Bauen im Bestand, AK Bayern, Anerkennung
• 2016: DB Wettbewerb: Respekt und Perspektive - Bauen im Bestand, Anerkennung
• 2016: BDA-Architekturpreis max40, Junge Architekten, Auszeichnung
• 2016: DMK Award 2016
• 2015: Auszeichung Gute Bauten in Franken, Anerkennung

Professor Raab actively mentors architecture students through bachelor's and master's theses as well as various project courses. His professional practice extends beyond academia through his architectural firm o5 Architekten, which he founded in 2006, maintaining a strong connection between theoretical instruction and practical application. He serves on judging panels for architectural competitions and is an active member of professional organizations including the Association of German Architects and the Chamber of Architects of Hesse.

His professional work encompasses a wide range of building types including educational facilities, residential buildings, cultural institutions, and urban development projects. Many of his competition-winning designs focus on the sensitive renovation of historic structures, demonstrating his expertise in preserving architectural heritage while adapting buildings for contemporary use.