[CPU]lab

Complexity, Planning and Urbanism [CPU]lab is an interdisciplinary research laboratory at the Manchester School of Architecture. Employing a constructive research agenda within a complexity-theory framework, the lab develops new approaches — digital tools, computational thinking, and urban theory — to tackle emerging technological disruptions and spatio-temporal urban dynamics. Its research programme spans future city systems, digital participation, resilient data platforms and urban simulations for sustainable futures. By merging social, environmental, and design sciences, [CPU]lab synthesises methodology from computational design, AI, and complexity sciences for urban transformations.

[CPU]ai

Situated within the global top-ten Manchester School of Architecture, [CPU]ai pioneers a radically innovative curriculum that teaches emerging architects to code bespoke computational tools and reconceptualise design challenges. Through hands-on development of computational/AI-driven workflows and complexity-science frameworks we empower students to structure design problems in unique ways and engage with technological transitions both within professional practice and evolving urban environments. By embedding tool-building at the core of design pedagogy, [CPU]ai redefines how tomorrow’s practitioners imagine, design and analyse cities in an era of digital transformation.

Research Networks

Drawing upon a complexity theory framework, ComplexUrban fosters collaborations across four international research networks – SusInfra, CoFutures, ComplexSouth and DaCAS – uniting designers, physicists, ecological economists, sci-fi scholars, environmental scientists, computer scientists, engineers and planners from multiple institutions. Through transdisciplinary inquiry into urban transformations, smart cities, technological disruptions and sustainable transitions, we co-create strategies to redirect unsustainable trajectories toward resilient futures. Explore our global partnerships to engage with our transformative research shaping environmentally sustainable, equitable and adaptive future cities.