Takashi Ariga is a Professor at Waseda University's School of Creative Science and Engineering, Department of Architecture. He currently serves as the Dean of the School of Creative Science and Engineering and Director of the Graduate School of Creative Science and Engineering. His academic journey began with a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from Waseda University (1985), followed by a Master's in Construction Engineering (1987), and culminated with a Ph.D. in Environmental Planning and Urban Design from the University of California, Berkeley (1997). With over 15 years of professional experience in private sector environmental development before entering academia, he brings practical insights to his research and teaching. Professor Ariga's research interests span a comprehensive range of urban planning and architectural topics. His primary focus areas include City and Regional Planning, Urban and Community Design, and the Theory and Methodology of Participatory Planning. He has made significant contributions to understanding Urban Morphology, particularly how traditional urban forms evolve while maintaining their essential character. His work on Environmental Design and Management explores sustainable integration of natural systems within urban environments, while his research on Heritage Management and Planning examines innovative approaches to preserving cultural landscapes. His expertise in Design Simulation and Communication bridges traditional planning methods with contemporary digital tools for enhanced community engagement. His recent scholarly output demonstrates a consistent focus on practical applications of urban planning theory. The 15 most recent publications reveal a pattern of research addressing urban resilience, community-based planning processes, and sustainable urban development. His work spans diverse geographical contexts from Tokyo neighborhoods to international case studies, with particular attention to disaster recovery planning, urban agricultural systems, and cultural heritage preservation. A distinctive feature of his research is the integration of historical perspectives with contemporary planning challenges, creating frameworks that honor traditional knowledge while addressing modern urban complexities. Japan Society for the Promotion of Science Research Grant Review Committee Award (2016) Waseda University Ono Art Memorial Prize (1986) International Federation of Housing and Planning (IFHP) International Urban Design Competition Grand Prize (1985) Japan City Planning Association Urban Planning International Student Competition Grand Prize (1985) Professor Ariga has been actively involved in numerous research projects funded by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, including studies on urban ecological systems, strategic assessment technology for community-based planning, and collaborative planning between stakeholders. His leadership extends to committee memberships with Tokyo's urban planning and landscape councils, demonstrating his commitment to translating academic research into practical urban governance. His laboratory, Ariga Lab ( arigalab.arch.waseda.ac.jp ), serves as a hub for interdisciplinary research connecting students, faculty, and community stakeholders in innovative urban planning initiatives.



