BIP title: Design Trends: Between Tradition and Innovation – An Inclusive Approach
BIP code: 2025-1-RO01-KA131-HED-000321226-5
ISCED code: 0212 – Fashion, interior and industrial design
Partner universities:
- Politehnica University Timisoara (RO TIMISOA04) – host
- International Hellenic University (G THESSAL14)
- American University of Skopje (MK SKOPJE10)
- Polytechnic Institute of Bragança (P BRAGANC01)
- TBD
Structure:
- Online component: 12.10.2026 – 23.10.2026
- Physical mobility in Timisoara: 26.10.2026 – 31.10.2026
- Attendance of both the virtual and the physical components of the programme is mandatory.
- Upon successful completion of the BIP, students will receive 3 ECTS
Target students:
- Level of studies: Bachelor, Master
- Study fields: architecture, interior design, art, landscaping, graphic design, engineering, computer science and multimedia, heritage and history
- English level: minimum B1
Objectives and description: The primary focus of this blended intensive program is the exploration of inclusive design principles within architecture and urban environments, emphasizing accessibility, usability, and social integration across diverse cultural and spatial contexts. Participants will investigate how contemporary inclusive design strategies can respond to the needs of different users and communities by combining innovative digital technologies with traditional methods of spatial analysis and representation. Through the use of advanced digital tools—such as 3D scanning, digital modelling, and 3D printing—alongside traditional methods and manual prototyping techniques, the program offers a multidisciplinary platform for developing inclusive and human-centered design solutions. By bridging cultural awareness, technological innovation, and spatial accessibility, the program encourages the creation of contemporary architectural and urban interventions that promote participation, equity, and sustainable social inclusion.
Methods and outcomes: Students will explore inclusive design approaches from all partner countries, focusing on accessibility, spatial diversity, and user-oriented architectural solutions. They will combine traditional methods with contemporary digital technologies such as 3D scanning, modelling, and printing. The program connects innovation and social inclusion through study visits and fieldwork in Timișoara and the Western region of Romania.
Virtual Component Description: The virtual component of the program will introduce participants to the fundamental concepts and tools necessary for the analysis and development of inclusive design solutions in architecture and urban spaces. Participants will explore accessibility and inclusive design approaches specific to each partner country, analyzing public spaces and buildings from their local context. Key digital tools—such as 3D scanning software, modelling programs, and 3D printing platforms—will be presented, while collaboration and project management tools will support effective teamwork throughout the program.
Application:
Students from partner universities (see list of partner universities above):
- are selected and nominated by their home institution to incoming@upt.ro before September 14th, 2026
- will submit their pre-mobility documents to incoming@upt.ro before September 14th, 2026
Selected students:
- OLA (Online Learning Agreement) should be submitted to Assoc. Prof. Dr. arch. Catalina BOCAN, catalina.bocan@upt.ro
- ISCED code for OLA: 0212 – Fashion, interior and industrial design
Questions?
- E-mail: incoming@upt.ro
