Who We Are
We are makers.
We make buildings. We make music. We make art. We make places. We make joy. We make discoveries. We make mistakes. We make professionals.
Essentially, we make people’s lives and spaces better.
If you’re interested, come join us — and make yourself.
We are defined by our research, learning, and culture
Our research and creativity shape what’s next—and then make it better
This is the place where innovation meets intention to improve lives, spaces, and the built environment. Fueled by collaboration across disciplines and partnerships with industry, our work is human-centered, future-facing, and deeply connected to community needs. We’re turning bold ideas into real-world solutions, and we see every project as an opportunity for meaningful change.
Our learning crafts confidence, capability, and collaboration
This is the place where students learn by doing — and grow by trying. In studios, performance halls, makerspaces, and research labs, our students tackle problems, make mistakes, and build the resilience and skills to thrive. Learning here means working side-by-side with faculty and peers, grounded in fundamentals and inspired by individual passions. It’s hands-on, high-touch, and built for impact.
Our culture is the transparent tension between risk and resiliency
This is the place where creativity thrives in the face of challenge. Our culture encourages feedback, embraces experimentation, and celebrates the learning that comes from taking risks. It’s a supportive environment where curiosity drives progress and diverse perspectives fuel bold, original work. Our students, faculty, and alumni come together to imagine, build, and grow — individually and collectively.
Come see us in action
It’s the best way to see if this is place for you and if this is your community of makers. Schedule a college tour and info session based on where you are in the college search or admission process. Feel free to walk through or peek in our spaces and see creativity and collaboration happening.
Alumni and friends, your legacy lives on
You’ve helped build this community and define who we are — and your impact continues. Whether you’re shaping the world through your work, mentoring the next generation, or supporting the future of creativity and design, you’re always part of what we make here. The legacy of Virginia Tech’s College of Architecture, Arts, and Design is made stronger every day by those who came before and still show up.