DesignBuildBLUFF is a graduate architecture program at the University of Utah focused on immersing students in hands-on, cross-cultural experiences. We work in partnership with the Navajo community of San Juan County in the Utah Four Corners.
DesignBuildBLUFF is the brainchild of the generous Utah architect Hank Louis. Founded in the year 2000, and later relocated in 2004 establishing its current home and namesake in Bluff, Utah. The program has been lauded for its award-winning designs.
We emphasize respect for the unique social, cultural, and environmental needs of the region relying on elements naturally at hand, within reach, both physically and economically. Working in close partnership with neighboring Navajo communities the program seeks to support them in their capacity building efforts, historically through the construction of homes and more recently public projects.