About
Ranald Lawrence's architectural research examines the history of environmental design, and the broader relationship between buildings and climate in different cultural contexts. He has taught and published on twentieth century architecture, the history of ventilation and lighting, adaptive comfort theory, and the implications of the contemporary use of technology in buildings. Prior to joining the University of Liverpool, Ranald was lecturer and Director of Technology at Sheffield University School of Architecture.
Ranald completed his PhD research on Victorian art schools at the University of Cambridge, funded by the AHRC. Supported by the Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art, his book, ‘The Victorian Art School: Architecture, History, Environment’ (Routledge, 2020), presents an explicitly environmental reading of the culture of the Victorian city explored through the design of art schools in Manchester, Birmingham and Glasgow.
Ranald has worked with several award-winning architectural practices both as a designer and researcher. Most recently he has completed two passive solar houses that reflect the role of precedent in the design of sustainable homes.
He is currently collaborating with scholars undertaking environmental monitoring to understand the internal environment of Hardwick Hall, Derbyshire, as conceived in the Elizabethan age. Funded by the British Academy he is also working with scholars at the University of Cape Town to investigate the impacts of climate change on the future urban planning of the city.
Ranald is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.