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Center for Design Research

Innovative research in smart technologies, consumer products and services

The Center for Design Research conducts advanced research that emphasizes the cross-disciplinary use of design as a problem solving tool. It is housed at the CDR complex which is located on KU’s west campus, and operates under the auspices of the School of Architecture & Design.

Led by director Professor Gregory Thomas, students enrolled in classes at the CDR have the opportunity to conceptualize and develop new consumer products and services using cutting-edge smart technologies in many subject areas. The majority of the projects done at the CDR are the result of partnerships with some of the world’s leading companies.

Explore the CDR

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Project Spotlights

See some examples of projects done with industry sponsors at the CDR.
Project Spotlights
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Industry Sponsors

The CDR is proud to collaborate with some of the world’s most innovative companies.
Industry Sponsorship
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About the CDR

See the history and impact of the Center for Design Research.
About the CDR

Latest News from the CDR

CDR Engaged in a new T-mobile Project

T-Mobile has long been a supporter of the CDR and has recently reached out to help develop a solution in h

The CDR Makes the Grade

To meet the requirements of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, a team of reviewers composed of members from other universities came to conduct a review.

CDR Research on Infection Mitigation at KU Hospital

Gregory Thomas, director of the Center for Design Research (CDR) at the University of Kansas School of Architecture & Design, recently conducted a research study at the University of Kansas Health System.

KU School of Medicine creates Salina-based Kansas Center for Rural Health

The University of Kansas School of Medicine announced the formation of the Kansas Center for Rural Health, which will address health disparities in rural parts of the state.
View all news

The CDR Complex

Located on KU’s West Campus on the site of a former dairy farm, CDR laboratories and classrooms are housed in renovated historic structures and a 2011 LEED Platinum certified building.