The concept of performance as a research theme in architecture is a holistic approach to evaluating the effectiveness of architectural designs in meeting the needs of their users and achieving the intended goals. The idea of performance in architecture goes beyond the traditional focus on energy efficiency, and encompasses a wide range of factors such as indoor environmental quality, acoustics, light, thermal comfort, durability, and accessibility.

Performance-based design is a research theme that is gaining attention in the field of architecture. This approach to design involves using performance-based criteria and metrics to inform the design process, and to evaluate the performance of a building or space after it is constructed. This can be done through simulation and analysis, monitoring and post-occupancy evaluation, and other research methods. By focusing on performance as a research theme, architects can design buildings that are better suited to the needs of their users and the environment. Additionally, performance-based design can also be used to optimize the design for different performance criteria, such as energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, and user comfort.