Alberto Villanueva MArch, MA, PGCE, FHEA, FRSA, ARB, WCCA

Alberto is an architect and associate professor at Ravensbourne University London, where he leads the Architecture and Built Environment department. He has extensive experience in education, management and engagement with creative economies and the built environment.

His academic and professional projects incorporate a range of approaches to architecture, design, public engagement, and engineering. They have spanned locations including Spain, South Korea, China, Slovenia, Italy, France, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, and even the planet Mars. His latest project is where he developed his first published academic research, Mars UTOPIA, a pioneering project on the possibilities of 3D printing and new materials in the colonisation of the planet Mars as a solution to generate architectures in extreme environments due to climate change. This was highlighted as an outstanding project by the Royal Academy of Arts and published by Dezeen, Designboom, Archdaily, and other industry publications. His work has also been exhibited in international venues such as the Fundación Telefónica in Madrid and the City of the Arts and Sciences in Valencia.

After leading collaborations in architecture across Europe, Alberto started his professional practice in Madrid over a decade ago, where he established the IDEA Architecture Office. This is an interdisciplinary studio collaborating with architecture offices and the public sector, covering technical and innovative concepts around digital crafting, sustainability and social impact. As a result of this, in September 2017, he was invited to become Spanish Ambassador for Science and Technology to the United Kingdom, a program combining diplomacy, science and technology.

Since then, Alberto has been deeply involved in academic leadership and governance in higher education. He is an external examiner at the University of the Arts London and De Montfort University. He has contributed to validation panels and reviews for the Royal Institute of British Architects and global institutions with provisions on spatial design, engineering, landscape, art, media, and environment.

His research explores the intersection of emerging technologies and their social impact. His publications address the transformative potential of AI, digital fabrication, and bio-based materials within design and architecture. Alongside this, he investigates cultural heritage through the lens of anthropology and spatial practice, with a particular focus on how architecture and urban environments shape, preserve, and communicate collective memory. His research aims to bridge technological innovation with human-centred values, contributing to more inclusive, sustainable, and culturally responsive built environments.

Alberto is a registered architect (ARB) and active member and fellow of different organisations, such as RSA (Royal Society of Arts), Higher Education Academy (HEA), Architects Climate Action Network (ACAN), The Architecture Club and the British Spanish Society (BSS), honours that have allowed him to collaborate with some of the most recognised professionals across the sector.

Since 2024, he has been a member of the Worshipful Company of Chartered Architects and Freeman of the City of London, engaging with activities such as the climate action plan for the City of London or supporting the outreach activities of Temple Bar, home of the Architects' Company.

In his free time, Alberto engages with various communities and organisations, such as the Architects Benevolent Society and Blueprint for All. He also plays for football teams local to Ravensbourne and enjoys hosting Spanish meals with friends and colleagues.