The Department of Architecture and Urban Studies (DAStU) is a thematic and interdisciplinary research structure at Politecnico di Milano. It is dedicated to conducting research, design experimentation, and training activities in various domains such as architectural and urban design, spatial planning, territorial governance, urban policies, preservation, and intervention in built and natural heritage, as well as the historical and critical interpretation of architecture and cities. Members of the DAStU research unit possess extensive experience and expertise in architecture, urban design and planning, with a particular emphasis on the relationship between borderlands design and urbanism. Additionally, they have expertise in spatial planning theories, land use regulation, real estate markets, and contractual urbanism. Further methodological specialties include spatial analysis, critical cartography, and research-by-design tools. Moreover, the research team is dedicated to educational and training activities within the academic realm, involving both undergraduate (BA) and graduate (MA) students, as well as PhD candidates. Geographically, the focus of these activities extends to the European and Mediterranean context, as well as to sub-Saharan and North African cities.