Reid R. Coffman

Reid R. Coffman is a Professor and Coordinator of the Master of Science in Architecture and Environmental Design at Kent State University's College of Architecture & Environmental Design. He holds leadership roles as North American Chair of the Regional Academic Centers of Excellence program (GRHC), Executive Director of the Greater Ohio Living Architecture (GOLA) Center, and Director of the Novel Ecology Design Lab (NEDLab). His work focuses on advancing green roof technology, urban ecosystems, and ecological restoration through interdisciplinary research and education.

Dr. Coffman's education includes a Ph.D. in Urban Ecology and Environmental Horticulture from The Ohio State University (2007), a Master of Landscape Architecture from the University of Colorado (1998), and a B.S. in Human Health and Physical Education from the University of Missouri (1993).

His research interests center on green roofs as constructed ecosystems, biodiversity integration in urban design, and climate change adaptation strategies. He pioneered concepts like 'biodispersing buildings' and roof cultivation for rare plant conservation, emphasizing the ecological and societal benefits of living architecture. His work bridges ecological science with architectural design, aiming to enhance urban sustainability and ecological resilience.

His publications span over two decades, focusing on green roof ecosystems, plant diversity optimization, and sustainable urban design. Recent works emphasize balancing ecosystem services, adapting to climate change through vegetation strategies, and advancing interdisciplinary approaches to urban ecological challenges.

He has received notable awards including the Research Award of Excellence (2020) and Award of Excellence in Built Work (2020) from Green Roofs for Healthy Cities, and the Honor Award from Central States ASLA (2011). His contributions to ecological design and restoration have been recognized nationally and internationally.

Dr. Coffman advises doctoral and master's students in thesis and dissertation projects across institutions. His leadership roles in research centers and academic networks reflect significant contributions to funding and collaborative projects in living architecture. He directs the Novel Ecology Design Lab (NEDLab), exploring innovative ecological design solutions, and leads the GOLA Center, advancing living architecture in Ohio.