Research and expertise
I am a researcher in the field of architecture, with a focus on domestic space and gendered spatial practices. My work adopts an interdisciplinary approach to architectural history and theory, exploring how modern ideologies, sociopolitical contexts, and everyday life shape women's experiences of home. Using interdisciplinary methods, I examine tangible and intangible forces that influence domestic spaces' design, perception, and occupation.
My research explores the intersection of architecture, feminist theory, and cultural studies, engaging with broader discourses on modernity, identity, and spatial politics. I am also interested in how media, state narratives, and architectural forms contribute to the construction of gender roles within the home.
Current research activity
- A PhD studentship, funded by the School of Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering at Loughborough University – Architecture group – My research topic is: “Women and Architecture of Domestic Space: Practices of power on home spaces and women’s spatial experiences”. The aim of my research is to investigate the role of modernity/ power in shaping women's everyday experiences and revealing the spatial practices of them in Iran.
Recently completed research projects
- Anthropology of Domestic Space: A Typology of Azerbaijan Houses based on lifestyle Between 1941-1979
Research interests/expertise
- Interdisciplinary approach in architectural history and theory
- Gender, space, and feminist methodologies in architecture
- Domestic space and everyday life
- Visual and narrative methods in architectural research
Recent publications
- Abbasimaleki, N. (2023) ‘The implications of power on the status of women in society and its reciprocal relationship with the home space in Azerbaijan, Iran’, in Richards, S., Sanliturk, C., Schmidt III, R., and Palaiologou, F. (eds.) Region. London: Routledge, pp. [insert page numbers]. ISBN 9781032422978. Available at: https://www.routledge.com/Region/Richards-Sanliturk-III-Palaiologou/p/book/9781032422978
- Abbasimaleki, N., Andaroodi, E., Mazaherian, H., & Khaghani, S. (2022). Anthropology of domestic space: Rereading of architectural patterns of houses in Azerbaijan during 2nd Pahlavi period according to lifestyle of inhabitants (Scope of Malekan). Journal of Architectural Thought, 6(11), 17–34. Imam Khomeini International University (IKIU)
- Abbasimaleki, A. N., Tasdighi, Sh., & Andaroodi, E. (n.d.). Modelling the decoration of historic buildings by close-range photogrammetry (the northern Mogharnas of Masoudiyeh mansion). In Proceedings of the 2nd National Conference on Documenting New Natural and Cultural Heritage, Shahid Rajaei University, Tehran, Iran
Teaching
I contribute to learning and teaching activities across the Schools programmes including:
Undergraduate:
- CVA059 - Architectural History
- CVZ002 - Professional Practic
- CVP319 - Research Methods (Guest Lecture: Qualitative Research Methodology)
Profile
I completed my BSc in Architectural Engineering (2015) and my MA in Architectural Studies (2018) at the University of Tehran, where I developed a strong interest in the relationship between domestic spaces and gendered spatial experiences. My research continues in this area, focusing on how everyday practices and modern ideologies shape women’s experiences of home.
Before joining Loughborough University as a doctoral researcher, I worked as an architectural researcher at the EBA-M architecture company in Tehran, contributing to several design and research-led projects. I am currently completing my PhD at Loughborough University, where I use interdisciplinary methods—including qualitative methodology, visual discourse analysis, and narrative methods —to explore the intersection of gender, modernity, and domestic life in Iran.
Alongside my research, I have taught at undergraduate level, delivering lectures and facilitating seminars in architectural history, critical theory, and professional practice modules. I am also actively involved in academic service and public engagement, having represented doctoral researchers and contributed to outreach initiatives such as Pint of Science.
Professional affiliations
- Assosiate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (AFHEA), Awarded 2025
Awards
- Winner, Doctoral Researcher Culture and Environment Award, Loughborough University (2023)
- Nominee, Representative Doctoral Researcher (Architecture) of the Year, PhD Awards (2024)
External activities
- Subwarden in Rutherford Hall (2022 – present)
- Team Member, Pint of Science 2025 (Creative Reactions team), Loughborough University
- Facilitator, “Home is Where…? Redefining Home through Stories and Images” Workshop
- Part of Pint of Science 2025 (Creative Reactions) and LU Arts – Create and Connect Sessions, Loughborough University
- Research Hub Committee Chair, SABCE, Loughborough University (2022-203)
- PhD Representative for Architecture Group, Loughborough University (2022-2024)
Past teaching experiences:
- I contributed to teaching activities as a teaching assistant at the Tehran University on the “New methods and technologies in documenting and historiography of Iranian architecture course” modual