In pursuing interests in architectural composition techniques, Professor Harrington began studies in the importance of architectural details in the perception of buildings (supported by a National Endowment for the Arts Accomplished Professional Grant). This research led to studies of the Early Wooden Structures of Yugoslavia (supported by a Fulbright-Hayes Senior Research Fellowship and Honorary Fellowship). The majority of this later research has occurred jointly with Associate Professor Judith Bing of Drexel University. The results of this research have been disseminated in numerous academic papers and exhibitions of photographs and drawings at international venues. Over the last ten years he has been heavily involved, with colleagues from Bosnia & Hercegovina, in the Mostar 2004 Workshop & Symposia that have focused on rebuilding strategies for the post-war rebuilding in the city of Mostar.

Professor Harrington’s teaching efforts focus upon architectural design, building technology and vernacular architectural studies. Over the past ten years pursuit of Mostar rebuilding studies in design studios and initiating new techniques in the teaching of building technology and environmental control systems have been a major focus. In 1997 an AIA Education Honor Awards Honorable Mention was received for contributions in the Vital Signs teaching initiative. Teaching efforts were further recognized in 1998 with receipt of the Lindback Foundation ‘Distinguished Teaching’ Award.

Professor Harrington currently serves as the president of the Architectural Research Centers Consortium.