Shaping a future research agenda across diverse knowledge spaces in architecture and urbanism – through the lens of Archnet-IJAR

PurposeThe objective of this article is to articulate a research agenda in architecture and urbanism by reviewing the contributions to Archnet-IJAR: International Journal of Architectural Research from 2022 to 2024. The article aims to develop a robust classification into established, evolving and emerging knowledge spaces. Such a classification seeks to offer insights into the role Archnet-IJAR plays in shaping current and future global research trends in architecture and urbanism.Design/methodology/approachA combination of bibliometric and textual analysis was employed, utilising tools such as VosViewer and Infranodus to map thematic structures and research trends. The examined articles were categorised into established, evolving and emerging knowledge spaces to assess how the journal dynamically adapts to and reflects global shifts in architectural and urban discourse. This classification offers a strategic lens into the influence of Archnet-IJAR on research trajectories and shaping the future landscape of scholarship in architecture and urbanism.FindingsThe study identifies three primary areas of discourse: sustainability and resilience, technology and innovation, and community-centred design. Key trends include the rise of AI and smart technologies, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on design strategies, and the integration of SDGs into architectural education and practice. Established knowledge spaces such as urban morphology and cultural heritage remain foundational while evolving spaces such as sustainability and resilience are gaining prominence. Emerging spaces such as smart technologies and bioclimatic architecture appear to be the future trajectory of research in the field.Research limitations/implicationsThe study focuses on three years (2022–2024) of analysing Archnet-IJAR content within an overarching contextualisation over the past decade. However, this may not capture longer-term trends.Originality/valueThe study presents a critical classification of architectural and urban discourse, highlighting the evolving nature of the field in response to global challenges. The notion of the knowledge spaces as a unique conceptualisation that integrates various thematic areas is emphasised.