Natalie Plagaro Cowee

Natalie Plagaro Cowee is a Professor of Architecture and Construction at the Lucerne School of Engineering and Architecture (HSLU T&A), affiliated with the Institute of Architecture (IAR). She holds a dual role as both an academic and a practicing architect, leading the architectural firm PLAGARO COWEE ARCHITEKTUR. Her work bridges theoretical research and practical application in adaptive architecture, structural design, and sustainable construction.

Education:

• 2004–Present: Philosophy Studies, University of Zurich
• 1998: Landscape Architecture Studies, Conservatoire International des Parcs et du Paysage Chaumont-sur-Loire (France)
• 1989–1997: Diploma in Architecture with Structural Specialization, Technische Universität Madrid (Spain)

Research Focus:

Her research emphasizes architectural adaptability, evolutionary design principles, and building longevity. Key themes include antifragility in architecture, resonance-based design methodologies, and strategies for transforming existing structures into sustainable spaces. She explores how buildings can evolve with societal and environmental changes while maintaining functional and aesthetic coherence.

Professional Projects:

Her applied work includes projects like Flexible Flooring (adaptive floor systems), Meet2Create (collaborative lab design), and Living Shell (biomimetic architecture). These projects reflect her commitment to integrating innovation with practical construction challenges.

Advising & Grants:

• Leads research groups at HSLU’s Competence Center for Typology & Planning in Architecture (CCTP)
• Collaborates on interdisciplinary workshops linking architecture with urban planning

Professional Activities:

In addition to academic duties, she operates her architecture firm specializing in adaptive reuse, urban planning, and construction management, maintaining a continuous dialogue between theory and practice.