Design and Culture

Scope & Guideline

Advancing Understanding at the Intersection of Design and Society

Introduction

Delve into the academic richness of Design and Culture with our guidelines, detailing its aims and scope. Our resource identifies emerging and trending topics paving the way for new academic progress. We also provide insights into declining or waning topics, helping you stay informed about changing research landscapes. Evaluate highly cited topics and recent publications within these guidelines to align your work with influential scholarly trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1754-7075
PublisherROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2012 to 2024
AbbreviationDES CULT / Des. Cult.
Frequency3 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address2-4 PARK SQUARE, MILTON PARK, ABINGDON OX14 4RN, OXON, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The journal 'Design and Culture' focuses on the intersection of design with cultural, social, and political dimensions, aiming to explore how design influences and is influenced by societal changes. The journal fosters a multidisciplinary approach, encouraging contributions that challenge traditional design paradigms and advocate for equity and justice in design practices.
  1. Socially Engaged Design:
    The journal emphasizes the role of design in social change, exploring how design can be a tool for activism and community engagement, particularly in addressing issues of equity and justice.
  2. Cultural Context and Identity:
    Many publications investigate the relationship between design and cultural identity, examining how design practices shape and reflect cultural narratives and heritage.
  3. Decolonial and Inclusive Design:
    A significant focus is on decolonization in design, advocating for practices that are inclusive and sensitive to diverse cultural perspectives, particularly from historically marginalized communities.
  4. Human-Centered and Participatory Approaches:
    The journal promotes human-centered design methodologies that prioritize user experience and participatory design processes, ensuring that the voices of diverse stakeholders are heard and integrated into design solutions.
  5. Interdisciplinary Perspectives:
    By incorporating insights from fields such as anthropology, sociology, and political theory, the journal encourages a comprehensive understanding of design that transcends traditional boundaries.
  6. Critical Examination of Design Practices:
    There is a consistent focus on critiquing existing design practices, exploring ethical implications, and advocating for a more responsible and reflective approach to design.
In recent years, 'Design and Culture' has showcased a range of emerging themes that reflect the evolving landscape of design. These trends highlight the journal's responsiveness to contemporary social issues and its commitment to fostering innovative design practices.
  1. Design for Social Justice:
    An increasing number of publications focus on design as a means of advocating for social justice, emphasizing the role of designers in challenging systemic inequalities and fostering community empowerment.
  2. Participatory and Collaborative Design:
    There is a growing emphasis on participatory design approaches, where stakeholders are actively involved in the design process, reflecting a shift towards more inclusive and democratic practices.
  3. Sustainability and Ecological Design:
    Emerging themes around ecological design and sustainability are becoming more prominent, as the journal explores how design can address environmental challenges and promote sustainable practices.
  4. Interdisciplinary and Cross-Cultural Dialogues:
    Recent publications highlight the importance of interdisciplinary collaborations and cross-cultural dialogues in design, reflecting a broader understanding of design's role in global contexts.
  5. Technology and Design Ethics:
    With the rise of technology in design, there is an increasing focus on ethical considerations surrounding artificial intelligence and data use in design practices, emphasizing the need for responsible innovation.

Declining or Waning

While 'Design and Culture' has consistently engaged with a broad range of themes, certain areas appear to be declining in prominence based on recent publications. This shift suggests a reorientation towards more pressing contemporary issues within the field.
  1. Historical Design Analysis:
    Though historical perspectives on design continue to be relevant, there appears to be a waning interest in purely historical analyses without direct connections to contemporary implications or cultural narratives.
  2. Commercial Design Practices:
    The focus on traditional commercial design practices, such as branding and marketing, has diminished as the journal shifts towards more socially and culturally engaged topics that prioritize community needs over corporate interests.
  3. Aesthetic-Centric Design Discussions:
    Discussions centered solely on aesthetic value or trends in design are less frequent, as the journal emphasizes critical and ethical considerations over mere visual appeal.
  4. Traditional Design Methodologies:
    There is a noticeable decline in publications that adhere strictly to conventional design methodologies, as the journal increasingly advocates for innovative and experimental approaches that challenge the status quo.

Similar Journals

Journal of Urban Design

Shaping the future of cities with cutting-edge research.
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1357-4809Frequency: 6 issues/year

Journal of Urban Design, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, stands at the forefront of academia, providing a critical forum for discourse on contemporary urban design practices and theories since its inception in 1996. With an impressive impact factor and consistently ranking in the Q1 category across multiple fields—namely Arts and Humanities, Geography, Planning and Development, and Urban Studies—this journal is recognized for its significant contributions to the understanding and shaping of urban environments. Although it does not offer open access, its meticulously curated content remains accessible to those keen on exploring innovative urban design thinking. Researchers, professionals, and students alike will find valuable insights and methodologies aimed at enhancing urban spaces globally, making the journal a vital resource for those committed to the evolution of urban planning and sustainable development strategies.

Design Studies

Catalyzing Multidisciplinary Dialogues in Design
Publisher: ELSEVIER SCI LTDISSN: 0142-694XFrequency: 6 issues/year

Design Studies, published by Elsevier Science Ltd, is an esteemed international journal, recognized for its pivotal contributions to the fields of design, architecture, and engineering. With an impressive history spanning from 1979 to 2024, this journal holds top positions in various categories, including Q1 rankings in Architecture, Arts and Humanities, and Engineering, indicating its high impact and relevance within academic circles. It boasts a notable Scopus ranking of #3 in Engineering & Architecture and #10 in General Social Sciences, demonstrating its multidisciplinary influence and the value it brings to both theoretical and practical aspects of design. Although not an open-access publication, the journal provides comprehensive access options to facilitate the dissemination of groundbreaking research. Catering to researchers, professionals, and students alike, Design Studies aims to foster innovation by publishing high-quality articles that explore contemporary design challenges and solutions, making it an essential resource for those invested in advancing knowledge in this dynamic field.

Design Science

Empowering Creativity Through Open Access Research.
Publisher: CAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESSISSN: 2053-4701Frequency: 1 issue/year

Design Science, published by Cambridge University Press, is a premier open access journal that has established itself as a leading platform for innovative research in the interdisciplinary field of design. Since its inception in 2015, the journal has focused on integrating design theories with practical applications across various sectors, including engineering, visual arts, and simulation modeling. With a remarkable impact factor and high rankings in multiple categories—Rank #11/667 in Visual Arts and Performing Arts and Rank #79/307 in General Engineering—Design Science commands a prominent position, being ranked in the top 98th, 76th, and 74th percentiles within its respective fields according to Scopus. The journal's dedication to open access ensures that cutting-edge research is accessible to a global audience, fostering collaboration and dialogue among researchers, professionals, and students alike. This journal not only aims to advance the understanding of design sciences but also serves as a vital resource for those seeking to explore the evolving dynamics of design practice in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

ARQ

Connecting scholars and professionals for a transformative dialogue.
Publisher: PONTIFICIA UNIV CATOLICA CHILE, ESCUELA ARQUITECTURAISSN: 0717-6996Frequency: 3 issues/year

ARQ, published by the Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile in the School of Architecture, is a pioneering open access journal established in 2001 that significantly contributes to the fields of architecture, conservation, and the visual and performing arts. Based in Santiago, Chile, this journal provides a vital platform for disseminating innovative research and critical discourse, showcasing diverse perspectives from scholars and professionals alike. With its impact evident in its prestigious Scopus rankings—placing it within the 44th percentile of Visual Arts and Performing Arts, the 26th percentile in Conservation, and the 23rd percentile in Engineering Architecture—ARQ demonstrates a commitment to elevating discourse within its discipline. The journal’s current categorization into different quartiles reflects its evolving scope and its aim to engage with contemporary challenges in architecture and related fields. Additionally, ARQ offers comprehensive open access options that enhance visibility and accessibility for its readership, fostering a collaborative and informed academic environment.

Architecture_MPS

Cultivating Ideas at the Intersection of Space and Society
Publisher: UCL PRESSISSN: Frequency:

Architecture_MPS is a premier open-access journal published by UCL PRESS, dedicated to exploring the interconnections between architecture, urbanism, and the broader spectrum of social and cultural dynamics. Launched in 2012, this journal stands as a crucial platform for researchers, practitioners, and students alike, facilitating the exchange of innovative ideas and comprehensive scholarship in the field. With its commitment to open access, Architecture_MPS significantly enhances the visibility and accessibility of research, fostering a collaborative environment for academic discourse. The journal covers a diverse array of topics, including theoretical frameworks, policy analysis, and practical case studies, making it an invaluable resource for those engaged in the study and practice of architecture and allied disciplines. As a leading source of contemporary research, Architecture_MPS aims to bridge gaps between academia and practice, encouraging interdisciplinary dialogues that shape the future of architecture and urban studies.

LOTUS INTERNATIONAL

Fostering Innovative Discourse in Visual and Performing Arts
Publisher: EDITORIALE LOTUSISSN: 1124-9064Frequency: 4 issues/year

LOTUS INTERNATIONAL is a distinguished journal published by EDITORIALE LOTUS, focusing on the dynamic fields of Architecture and Visual Arts and Performing Arts. With its ISSN 1124-9064, this scholarly periodical has been a platform for innovative research and discourse since its inception in 2002, resuming publication in 2021 after a brief hiatus. Based in the cultural hub of Milan, Italy, LOTUS INTERNATIONAL aims to bridge theoretical frameworks and practical applications, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of creative practices and their implications in modern society. As a Q4 ranked journal in its respective categories for 2023, it provides a unique opportunity for researchers and professionals to contribute to an evolving dialogue, even at the foundational percentile levels within its Scopus rankings. Although not an open-access journal, LOTUS INTERNATIONAL remains committed to disseminating valuable insights and advancing knowledge in the creative disciplines. With an accessible format, it invites a diverse audience, including students, to engage with emerging concepts that shape the future of art and architecture.

Grafica-Journal of Graphic Design

Empowering Designers Through Open Access Knowledge
Publisher: UNIV AUTONOMA BARCELONAISSN: 2014-9298Frequency: 2 issues/year

Welcome to the Grafica-Journal of Graphic Design, a premier publication dedicated to advancing the field of graphic design and visual arts. Published by UNIV AUTONOMA BARCELONA in Spain, this Open Access journal has been a vital resource for scholars and practitioners since 2013, making impactful research freely available to a global audience. The journal's scope encompasses a broad range of topics within graphic design, visual communication, and the overlapping domains of computer graphics, offering invaluable insights for researchers, educators, and industry professionals alike. With an impressive reputation reflected in its categorization, including Q1 in Visual Arts and Performing Arts and Q3 in Communication for 2023, Grafica stands out in terms of academic rigor and relevance. Currently indexed in Scopus, the journal holds significant rankings that underscore its impact within the Arts and Humanities as well as Social Sciences. By bridging artistic innovation and practical application, Grafica serves as an essential platform for the exchange of ideas, fostering creativity and collaboration within the vibrant community of graphic design.

Landscape Journal

Bridging Environmental Science and Architecture
Publisher: UNIV WISCONSIN PRESSISSN: 0277-2426Frequency: 2 issues/year

Welcome to the Landscape Journal, a prominent publication in the field of Nature and Landscape Conservation, proudly brought to you by University of Wisconsin Press. Since its inception, this journal has strived to underpin the critical interplay between environmental science and landscape architecture, providing a platform for innovative research and comprehensive insights. With an ISSN of 0277-2426 and an E-ISSN of 1553-2704, the Landscape Journal is indexed in leading academic databases and recognized with a 2023 Scopus Rank of #167, placing it in the 21st percentile among its peers. The journal operates from the heart of the United States, featuring converged years from 2009 to 2019 and again from 2021 to 2024, making it a reliable resource for ongoing dialogue in landscape studies. Although it currently does not offer open access, the Landscape Journal remains an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students dedicated to understanding and enhancing our natural environments. As a Q3 category journal, it invites contributions that push the boundaries of landscape research while fostering environmental stewardship.

DESIGN ISSUES

Advancing Scholarly Conversations in Design
Publisher: MIT PRESSISSN: 0747-9360Frequency: 4 issues/year

DESIGN ISSUES, published by MIT PRESS, serves as a vital platform for scholarly discourse within the realms of design, arts, and humanities. With an ISSN of 0747-9360 and an E-ISSN of 1531-4790, this journal has established itself as a critical resource for researchers and practitioners alike, maintaining a significant presence in the academic community. As of 2023, it is ranked in the second quartile in Arts and Humanities (Miscellaneous) and the fourth quartile in Computer Graphics and Computer-Aided Design, showcasing its diverse scope and interdisciplinary approach. Spanning converged years from 2005 to 2024, DESIGN ISSUES fosters an exploration of contemporary design debates, theoretical advancements, and case studies, ensuring that it remains relevant and insightful amid the fast-evolving landscape of design practices. While not an open access journal, it is dedicated to enriching the academic and professional realms by engaging with pressing design issues, making it an essential read for anyone invested in the future of design.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ART & DESIGN EDUCATION

Innovating Education Through Art and Design
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 1476-8062Frequency: 3 issues/year

The INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ART & DESIGN EDUCATION, published by Wiley, is a premier peer-reviewed journal that explores the intersection of art, design, and educational practice. With an ISSN of 1476-8062 and an E-ISSN of 1476-8070, this journal stands out as a beacon of scholarly discourse in the arts and humanities. Recognized for its excellence, it has achieved a remarkable trajectory, earning a Q1 ranking in both the Visual Arts and Performing Arts categories and a Q1 in Arts and Humanities (miscellaneous) for 2023, as evidenced by its Scopus rankings, where it places in the top 5% of relevant journals. The journal invites submissions that foster innovative research and discussions on contemporary issues in art and design education, thus serving as an essential resource for researchers, educators, and practitioners alike. With an emphasis on accessibility, the journal offers an Open Access option, ensuring its invaluable contributions reach a wider audience. Established in 1996 and converging towards 2024, the INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ART & DESIGN EDUCATION continues to shape the future of art and design pedagogy in the United Kingdom and beyond.