SOUTHFIELD, Mich.—Lawrence Technological University ’s College of Architecture and Design opens its 2026 Design X Technology Series on Thursday, Jan. 22, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., with a presentation titled “Pressure Points” by Scott Shall, LTU professor, co-founder and CEO of houm, and founding director of the International Design Clinic.
Recently returned from his sabbatical, which informed his “Pressure Points” presentation, Shall will explore his houm work as well as his affiliation with a community-led strategy created by the International Design Clinic (IDC) in partnership with Shalom Ministries, Fielding International, and a variety of local activists.
Houm is a construction company co-founded by Shall using digital fabrication techniques to create affordable, efficient housing.
Shall’s presentation will be followed by an interview and discussion led by Architecture Department Chair and Associate Professor Gretchen Wilkins, PhD .
The remaining Design X Technology sessions in the 2026 series include: Jakob Marsico, on February 24, whose work engages multiple disciplines, human experience UX/UI and interactive spatial design; Sean Vance, on March 3, whose work focuses on accessibility, healthcare environments, and inclusive architectural design; Juan Miró, on March 19, Principal of Miro Rivera Architects and Professor of Architecture at the University of Texas-Austin; Alexandra Dymowska, on March 24, who works on brand strategy and product design details for General Motors, specifying form, color, and dynamic lighting characteristics for the in-vehicle experience; and Lesley-Ann Noel, on April 7, who will discuss design for social change.
CoAD Interim Dean Lilian Crum said, “Our Design X Technology Series is CoAD’s educational outreach to the community as well as an opportunity for our students to experience the work of noted architects and designers. Professional architects and designers can earn continuing education credits by attending our series, planned throughout this academic year. Professor Shall and our other featured presenters this season are internationally recognized and award-winning architects and designers who share a commitment to thoughtful, forward-looking design practice. We welcome students, professionals, industry representatives, and the public to join us for an exciting 2026 series.”
All events in the Design x Technology Series are free and live-streamed for those unable to attend in person. Guests may attend online or on campus at 21000 W. 10 Mile Road, Southfield. Click here to register and for the location and viewing details. A pizza lunch will be provided for all on-site registered guests.
Lawrence Technological University is one of only 13 independent, technological, comprehensive doctoral universities in the United States. Located in Southfield, Mich., LTU was founded in 1932, and offers more than 100 programs through its Colleges of Architecture and Design, Arts and Sciences, Business and Information Technology, Engineering, and Health Sciences, as well as Specs@LTU, which offers communication training programs of the former Specs Howard School, and LTU’s growing Center for Professional Development. PayScale lists Lawrence Tech among the nation’s top 11 percent of universities for alumni salaries. Forbes and The Wall Street Journal rank LTU among the nation’s top 10 percent. U.S. News and World Report lists it in the top tier of best in the Midwest colleges. Students benefit from small class sizes and a real-world, hands-on, “theory and practice” education with an emphasis on leadership. Activities on Lawrence Tech’s 107-acre campus include more than 60 student organizations and NAIA varsity sports.