www.buildingsandcities.org/about/raymond-cole.html
Dr Raymond J. Cole
Although Dr Raymond J. Cole's education is in engineering and science, he has spent the majority of his career in the field of architectural research and education.
He is an Emeritus Professor and past-Director of the School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture at the University of British Columbia and past Academic Director of UBC¹s Centre for Interactive Research on Sustainability.
Dr Cole holds the designation of North American Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture Distinguished Professor and UBC Distinguished University Scholar.
Latest Commentaries
The Search for Urban Recovery in Lebanon
Lebanon’s history has been shaped by recurrent cycles of war, disaster, and economic collapse, with each episode leaving enduring imprints on the country’s urban and social fabric. Howayda al-Harithy (American University of Beirut) critically examines Lebanon’s historical cycles of destruction and reconstruction. Recovery involves more than rebuilding buildings; it requires a framework that is people-centered, heritage-led and place-specific together with an emphasis on restoring social relations, cultural identity, community agency while addressing structural inequalities.
Rebuilding Energy Infrastructure after War
Marco Nicola Binetti (University of Bremen) argues that energy reconstruction should be understood as a core pillar of post-conflict recovery rather than a narrowly technical undertaking. Restoring electricity and fuel supplies enables essential services, supports economic growth, strengthens state legitimacy, and reduces the likelihood of renewed violence. However, successful reconstruction requires overcoming substantial financial, logistical, institutional, and political obstacles. Reconstruction strategies must also adapt to emerging threats and vulnerabilities created by modern warfare.