Investors in Architecture

Showing 1-50 out of 1288 matches

National Science Foundation

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency established in 1950 and based in Alexandria, Virginia. It is dedicated to supporting research and education in science and engineering across a wide range of disciplines. The NSF provides significant non-dilutive funding, up to $1.5 million, to startups and small businesses through its America's Seed Fund initiative, which is part of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program mandated by Congress. With an operating budget of approximately $7.8 billion, the NSF is committed to advancing fundamental research and education, thus fostering innovation and technological development in the United States.
Made 49 investments in Architecture

Stantec

Stantec provides professional services in planning, engineering, architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, surveying, environmental sciences, project management, and project economics for infrastructure and facilities projects. They serve public and private sector clients worldwide, supporting them throughout the project lifecycle.
Made 34 investments in Architecture

Antler

Founded in Singapore in 2017, Antler is an early-stage venture capital firm that invests globally. It focuses on backing exceptional founders from day one, offering a global community network of co-founders, talent, advisors, expansion support, and capital across various sectors such as technology, healthcare, finance, consumer goods, and more.
Made 11 investments in Architecture

US Department of Energy

The U.S. Department of Energy is a government agency established in 1977, located in Washington, D.C. Its primary mission is to ensure the security and prosperity of the nation by tackling energy, environmental, and nuclear challenges. The Department focuses on promoting transformative scientific and technological solutions to address these issues, thereby supporting the country's energy needs and environmental sustainability.
Made 12 investments in Architecture

Foundamental

Foundamental is a Berlin-based venture capital firm that backs early-stage startups developing construction, mining, renovation and related vertical technologies. It invests globally across the Americas, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Africa, focusing on pre-seed and seed rounds with strong follow-on capacity. The firm emphasizes 3D design, construction, blue-collar workforce, robotics, supply chains, industrial manufacturing and aerospace, and its portfolio includes Infra.Market, Speckle, Snaptrude, Wiz Freight, Enter, Permitflow, Tazapay and SafeAI. Drawing on experience in technology, venture investing and industrial operations, Foundamental supports founders through the critical early years and seeks to build category-defining real-world technology companies. The firm manages substantial early-stage capital and has a global perspective with a Berlin base and connections to North America and Asia-Pacific markets.
Made 11 investments in Architecture

Woolpert

Woolpert is a design, geospatial, and infrastructure management firm that delivers a range of consulting services to public, private, and governmental entities. The company specializes in geospatial services, architectural and engineering solutions, and strategic consulting, supporting various industries including planning, design, information technology, and energy. Woolpert offers expertise in laser scanning, civil engineering, fire protection, and structural design, providing comprehensive advisory services that facilitate effective project planning and execution. Through its diverse capabilities, the firm aims to enhance infrastructure and operational efficiency for its clients.
Made 4 investments in Architecture

LaBella Associates

LaBella Associates is an international firm specializing in Architecture, Engineering, Environmental Planning. Headquartered in Rochester, NY, they offer services such as architecture planning, energy engineering, environmental consulting, and program management to assist businesses in building sustainable projects with efficient energy consumption.
Made 6 investments in Architecture

PBK

PBK Architects, Inc. is a Houston-based firm that specializes in architectural and engineering consulting services, catering primarily to the education, healthcare, sports, and government sectors. Established in 1978, the company provides a comprehensive range of services, including architectural planning and design, master planning, sustainable design integration, and interior design. It also offers structural, civil, and M.E.P. engineering, alongside technology consulting and facility consulting, which encompasses building envelope assessments and forensic investigations. PBK's approach is characterized by a strong commitment to customer service and a focus on delivering tailored solutions that meet the distinct needs of each client. The firm employs a team of skilled professionals who work collaboratively to ensure efficient project execution. In addition to its headquarters in Houston, PBK operates multiple locations across Texas and California, as well as an office in Beijing, China.
Made 4 investments in Architecture

SOSV

Founded in 1995, SOSV is a global venture capital firm headquartered in New Jersey. It focuses on seed-to-growth stage investments in deep tech innovations, primarily in bio-tech/life sciences and hardware/robotics sectors, with a commitment to human and planetary health.
Made 12 investments in Architecture

Brick & Mortar Ventures

Brick & Mortar Ventures, established in 2015 and headquartered in San Francisco, is a venture capital firm specializing in early-stage investments in technology for the built world. The company focuses on software and hardware solutions within the architecture, engineering, construction, and facilities management sectors, as well as real estate and hospitality. Brick & Mortar Ventures takes a hands-on approach, actively supporting its portfolio companies and leveraging its industry expertise to drive value.
Made 4 investments in Architecture

Autodesk

Autodesk, established in 1982, is a leading provider of 3D design, engineering, and entertainment software. It caters to various industries, including architecture, engineering, construction, product design, manufacturing, and media & entertainment. The company's extensive suite of products, such as AutoCAD, Revit, Inventor, Maya, and 3ds Max, enables professionals to design, model, and render projects efficiently. With over 4 million paid subscribers in 180 countries, Autodesk's software is widely used globally.
Made 8 investments in Architecture

SFC Capital

SFC Capital is a United Kingdom based venture capital firm founded in 2012 that focuses on early-stage investments, including pre-seed and seed rounds, in sectors such as software, technology, e-commerce, consumer products, enterprise solutions, green technology, medical technology, and hospitality. It backs UK startups through an Angel Network and seed funds, providing capital and guidance and offering access to SEIS- and EIS-qualifying investment opportunities. The firm is described as a leading seed investor in the UK.
Made 5 investments in Architecture

Techstars

Founded in 2006, Techstars is a global platform that supports and invests in early-stage technology companies. Through its mentorship-driven accelerator programs, it provides funding, resources, and connections to entrepreneurs worldwide. With over $1 billion invested in more than 2,000 companies across 45 countries, Techstars has helped create a network of founders, investors, and innovators dedicated to driving growth and innovation.
Made 13 investments in Architecture

Government of Canada

The Government of Canada, headquartered in Ottawa, serves as a key agency responsible for developing and implementing policies and programs that promote economic, fiscal, social, security, and international stability. It aims to ensure strong and sustainable governance through its various initiatives and frameworks. The agency also prioritizes transparency and accessibility, facilitating citizens' access to government information and services via a centralized online platform. This website acts as a comprehensive portal that provides essential information on the government's operations, priorities, laws, and policies, ensuring that Canadians can easily navigate and utilize the available resources using any internet-enabled device.
Made 4 investments in Architecture

Align Capital Partners

Align Capital Partners is a growth-oriented private equity firm headquartered in Dallas, Texas, with an office in Cleveland, Ohio. Founded in 2016, the firm pursues lower-middle-market investments across the United States and Canada. It targets control investments in platform companies with EBITDA under $20 million and employs a buy-and-build strategy to accelerate growth. The firm focuses on differentiated companies in the technology, business services, specialty manufacturing, and distribution sectors, and partners with business owners and management teams to provide capital, strategic support, and resources that support growth, benefiting management, employees, and investors.
Made 2 investments in Architecture

Pi Labs

Founded in London in 2014, Pi Labs is a venture capital firm investing in early-stage companies operating at the intersection of technology and real estate. They focus on transforming relationships with buildings to positively impact people, businesses, and the environment.
Made 8 investments in Architecture

European Innovation Council

Established in 2020, the European Innovation Council supports innovative startups and researchers with promising ideas, focusing on early-stage companies with positive environmental, social, or governance impacts. It co-invests alongside private investors.
Made 8 investments in Architecture

Bentley Systems

Bentley Systems develops software for infrastructure engineering professionals, enabling design, construction, and operations management. Its solutions include MicroStation for modeling and visualization, ProjectWise for project information management, AssetWise for asset lifecycle management, and SYNCHRO XR for immersive digital construction experiences. Bentley serves engineers, architects, contractors, and operators, with a focus on core specialty areas like bridge or rail design.
Made 4 investments in Architecture

Brand Capital

Brand Capital, established in 2005 and based in Mumbai, India, is a private equity investment firm that has played a significant role in building over 850 indigenous brands over the past decade. The firm has introduced innovative print advertising concepts, such as jackets and panorama adverts, that have been widely adopted in the industry. With a focus on creating brand value rather than merely financial returns, Brand Capital contributes intellectual capital to aid in brand strategy development and media planning. Its investments span a diverse range of sectors, including education technology, financial technology, health technology, retail, fast-moving consumer goods, consumer durables, real estate, and health and wellness. The firm's current invested value is approximately USD 2.5 billion, reflecting its commitment to disruptive innovation and leveraging the media properties of The Times Group.
Made 31 investments in Architecture

Signal Hill Equity Partners

Signal Hill Equity Partners, established in 2007 and based in Toronto, Canada, is a private equity firm focusing on middle market companies. It specializes in buyouts, carve-outs, acquisitions, and operational turnarounds, typically investing between $10 million and $30 million in companies valued between $15 million and $75 million. The firm prefers control equity investments and targets sectors such as specialty manufacturing, distribution, building products, food, and consumer products, with a focus on Western Canada.
Made 2 investments in Architecture

EASME

EASME is a European Union executive agency that supports small and medium-sized enterprises and promotes innovation in Europe. It manages projects in the areas of small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as the environment, energy, and maritime sectors, funded by COSME, LIFE, and EMFF. EASME organizes the European Sustainable Energy Week and serves industries such as environmental management, energy production, and maritime activities.
Made 24 investments in Architecture

Base10 Partners

Base10 Partners is a San Francisco-based venture capital firm that concentrates on early-stage investments in automation-enabled software and services across the real economy. It backs seed to Series A rounds, typically investing between 0.5 million and 5 million dollars, in U.S.-based companies spanning finance, healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, construction, retail, and food. The firm focuses on automation that improves efficiency in traditional industries and forms industry teams to anticipate five-year trends and identify opportunities. It emphasizes supporting founders who pursue a balance of purpose and profitability and concentrates its activity in the United States.
Made 3 investments in Architecture

TranSystems

TranSystems is a mid-sized firm that offers engineering and architectural planning, design, and construction solutions aimed at improving the movement of goods and people within integrated transportation infrastructure. With a team of around 800 professionals across more than 30 offices in the United States, the company serves both public and private sectors, including government agencies and the freight, transit, aviation, and intermodal markets. TranSystems specializes in various design and engineering projects, including bridges, highways, tunnels, railroads, and airports, contributing to the enhancement of transportation networks and infrastructure. The firm supports clients throughout the entire program lifecycle, from initial problem-solving and planning to design, construction management, and ongoing operations.
Made 2 investments in Architecture

Y Combinator

Founded in 2005, Y Combinator is a California-based startup accelerator and early-stage venture capital firm. It provides funding, mentorship, and resources to early-stage companies across various industries, with a focus on technology, healthcare, and finance. The organization helps founders refine their business models and products through an intensive three-month program in Silicon Valley, culminating in Demo Day presentations to investors.
Made 13 investments in Architecture

Nemetschek

Founded in 1963 by Prof. Georg Nemetschek, Nemetschek is a leading global software provider for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Management (AECM) industry. With over 40 offices worldwide, its software solutions are used by more than 1.2 million users across 142 countries. The company focuses on innovative concepts such as Open Building Information Modeling (BIM Open), catering to the AECM market of tomorrow.
Made 3 investments in Architecture

LHB

LHB Inc. is an engineering, architecture, and planning firm based in Duluth, Minnesota, with additional offices in Minneapolis, Cambridge, and Superior, Wisconsin. Founded in 1966, the company provides a comprehensive range of services, including architecture, interior design, civil, electrical, mechanical, and structural engineering, as well as land surveying. LHB also specializes in planning, site design, transportation, urban design, and historic preservation. The firm emphasizes sustainable practices, offering research and development, policy development, and consultancy on sustainable guidelines. It also provides energy modeling, building analysis, and commissioning services, including Performance Metrics to ensure buildings operate efficiently and B3 Benchmarking for managing energy consumption. LHB serves a diverse clientele across commercial, education, government, healthcare, housing, industrial, pipeline, and public works sectors, focusing on creating vibrant and functional spaces.
Made 1 investment in Architecture

WSP Global

WSP Global is a professional services consulting firm headquartered in Montreal, Canada, with a rich history dating back to 1885. It has established itself as one of the world's leading engineering firms, offering a wide range of services that include environmental remediation, urban planning, and infrastructure development. WSP's expertise spans various sectors such as transportation, energy, and community development, enabling the firm to address both the built and natural environments. With approximately 32,000 employees, including engineers, technicians, scientists, architects, and planners, WSP operates from over 500 offices in 39 countries. The firm has grown through strategic acquisitions, including Parsons Brinckerhoff, which enhanced its capabilities in transportation engineering and infrastructure projects. WSP is recognized for its commitment to delivering innovative solutions and has been ranked among the top international design firms by Engineering News-Record.
Made 1 investment in Architecture

Aukett Swanke Group

Aukett Swanke Group is a professional services firm that principally provides architectural design services.
Made 3 investments in Architecture

IBI Group

IBI Group Inc. is a Canada-based architecture, planning, engineering, and technology firm that focuses on the physical development of urban environments. The company operates primarily through its consulting services segment, emphasizing three main areas: intelligence, buildings, and infrastructure. IBI Group provides a wide range of professional services, including planning, design, implementation, and operational analysis, alongside software development. Its expertise spans various sectors such as urban design, architecture, civil engineering, transportation engineering, and landscape architecture. The firm serves a diverse clientele that includes government agencies at all levels, public institutions, and private companies engaged in real estate, land development, and transportation. With operations in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and other international markets, IBI Group is committed to enhancing the livability and functionality of cities through innovative design and engineering solutions.
Made 4 investments in Architecture

FARO

FARO Technologies, Inc. specializes in designing, developing, manufacturing, and marketing software-driven three-dimensional (3D) measurement and imaging solutions on a global scale. The company operates through three primary segments: 3D Manufacturing, Construction BIM, and Emerging Verticals. Its product offerings include the FaroArm, FARO ScanArm, FARO Design ScanArm 2.5C, FARO Laser Tracker, and FARO Focus laser scanner, all of which are designed for high-precision measurement and data collection in various industries. FARO's software solutions complement its hardware, enabling users to capture and manipulate both 3D and 2D data effectively. The company's technology serves a diverse range of applications, including manufacturing, architecture, surveying, building information modeling, construction, public safety forensics, and cultural heritage. Founded in 1981, FARO is headquartered in Lake Mary, Florida, with additional locations in Germany and Singapore, supporting a global customer base of approximately 15,000 users.
Made 2 investments in Architecture

Khosla Ventures

Founded in 2004, Khosla Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California. The firm invests in early-stage companies across various sectors including AI, climate, enterprise, consumer, fintech, digital health, medtech, therapeutics, and frontier technology. It also manages impact investment initiatives focused on improving living standards for the bottom half of the world's economic pyramid.
Made 15 investments in Architecture

Glilot Capital Partners

Glilot Capital Partners is an Israeli venture capital firm founded in 2011 and based in Herzliya. It focuses on seed and early-stage investments in technology companies, with emphasis on B2B software, cybersecurity, AI/ML, big data, DevOps, IoT, enterprise software, and Fintech, primarily in Israel. The firm often leads or participates in rounds and offers flexible funding, including convertible notes for early growth rounds. Founders are Kobi Samboursky and Arik Kleinstein. Typical investment size ranges from five to twenty million dollars. Glilot emphasizes portfolio support through a community of industry leaders and resources to accelerate growth in network management software, AI, cybersecurity, and related software sectors.
Made 3 investments in Architecture

Hetz Ventures

Hetz Ventures is a Tel Aviv-based venture capital firm focused on early-stage investments in Israeli startups. The firm backs founders who work at the forefront of deep technology, with particular emphasis on cybersecurity and data/AI infrastructure. Its portfolio and activity span enterprise IT, software, cloud technologies, fintech, and devops, as well as emerging sectors such as smart devices, drones, retail, construction, and IoT. Hetz Ventures supports seed and Series A rounds, typically investing in high-potential technology companies and leveraging a network that includes European investors to help portfolio companies scale internationally.
Made 3 investments in Architecture

The Lawrence Group

The Lawrence Group, Inc. is a comprehensive architectural firm based in St. Louis, Missouri, with additional offices in Austin, Texas; Charlotte, North Carolina; and New York, New York. Founded in 1983, the company provides a wide range of services including architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, graphic design, urban planning, and construction management. The firm is dedicated to delivering creative and holistic solutions that enhance the human experience across various sectors, including higher education, healthcare, corporate environments, hospitality, and residential projects. Additionally, The Lawrence Group operates a restaurant in St. Louis, offering a diverse menu that includes meals, soups, salads, pizzas, and desserts. Its commitment to understanding the impact of design decisions ensures that each project aligns with a shared vision while addressing the specific needs of its clients.
Made 1 investment in Architecture

Ramboll Group

Ramboll Group is a global engineering, architecture, and consultancy company headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark. The firm specializes in creating sustainable solutions across various sectors, including buildings, transport, urban design, environment and health, energy, and management consulting. Ramboll is dedicated to designing the cities and communities of the future, emphasizing innovative approaches that benefit clients, end customers, and society as a whole. The company values the creativity, knowledge, and integrity of its employees, fostering diverse teams to achieve effective and innovative outcomes. Through its commitment to sustainability and long-term solutions, Ramboll aims to make a meaningful impact in the markets it serves.
Made 1 investment in Architecture

Newforma

Newforma is a software company that specializes in project information management (PIM) solutions tailored for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. Founded in 2003 and based in Boston, Newforma aims to enhance collaboration among project teams and stakeholders by providing tools that manage emails, facilitate information retrieval, and streamline the sharing of large files and processing of submittals. The company's software is designed to connect firms with their project information and remote team members, ultimately improving project delivery outcomes. Newforma's solutions are currently utilized to manage information across over 1.4 million projects globally, helping clients increase productivity, mitigate risks, and focus more on design and client service.
Made 1 investment in Architecture

The NBS

NBS is a specialist provider of technical information for professionals in the construction industry, based in Newcastle Upon Tyne, England. The company offers innovative products and services tailored for architecture, construction, design, and engineering sectors. One of its key offerings is NBS Create, a cloud-based specification tool that facilitates coherent documentation throughout the project lifecycle, from inception to completion, ultimately saving time and costs. NBS's industry-standard tools support professionals in designing safe and energy-efficient buildings, enhancing collaboration and informed decision-making among clients. With over 5,000 subscribing offices in the UK, including a significant number of top architectural practices, NBS plays a vital role in advancing construction project efficiency and quality.
Made 1 investment in Architecture

Accel

Founded in 1983, Accel is a venture capital firm dedicated to helping entrepreneurs build world-class technology-focused companies. It invests in early and growth-stage startups across sectors such as software, cloud technologies, mobile, consumer services, and others.
Made 5 investments in Architecture

Loop Capital

Loop Capital is a full-service investment bank, brokerage and advisory firm that provides creative capital solutions for corporate, governmental and institutional entities across the globe. Our reputation for integrity and service - coupled with our track record of success - has allowed us to serve an expanding number of clients from coast to coast. We continue to grow because clients continue to ask us to do more for them, and our uncompromising commitment to excellence means that clients get superior, focused service across our entire platform.
Made 2 investments in Architecture

Matrix

Matrix is an early-stage venture capital firm, investing from idea through Series A. With a close-knit team of former founders and company builders, Matrix has partnered with companies like Apple, FedEx, Oculus, and Canva. They focus on sectors such as applied AI, B2B SaaS, chips & components, digital health, fintech, and software-defined hardware.
Made 9 investments in Architecture

HDR

HDR Inc. specializes in engineering, architecture, environmental, and construction services. They are known for their work in creating high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure to enhance communities. Their multidisciplinary teams consist of scientists, economists, builders, analysts, and artists, providing a strong foundation for progress and innovation in their projects.
Made 1 investment in Architecture

Gray Solutions

Gray Solutions is a family-owned company based in Lexington, Kentucky, that specializes in design-build services, including engineering, architecture, and construction. Established in 1960, the company serves both domestic and international clients, leveraging its extensive expertise to deliver comprehensive solutions. Gray Solutions focuses on optimizing market dynamics, improving automation, and enhancing productivity and uptime for its customers. With additional offices across the United States, Canada, and Japan, Gray Solutions is committed to providing innovative and effective services tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clientele.
Made 1 investment in Architecture

AECOM

AECOM is a leading global provider of professional services in program and construction management, operating across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. The company offers a wide range of services, including planning, consulting, architectural design, engineering, and construction management, catering to both commercial and government clients. AECOM's expertise spans various sectors, such as transportation, water, environmental, energy, and facilities. With a workforce of approximately 51,000 employees, AECOM is committed to delivering innovative solutions that enhance and sustain the built, natural, and social environments. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, the company was founded in 1980 and has established itself as a prominent player in the global infrastructure market, generating significant revenue while maintaining a strong presence in over 150 countries.
Made 2 investments in Architecture

Vectorworks

Vectorworks develops intuitive design software for architecture, landscape, and entertainment industries. Founded in 1985, the company offers cross-platform CAD and BIM solutions, enabling users to seamlessly sketch, model, and present projects from inception to completion.
Made 1 investment in Architecture

Harrison French and Associates

Harrison French and Associates is an architecture and engineering firm that specializes in providing services to the retail, commercial, and assisted living sectors across the United States. The firm is dedicated to delivering innovative design and engineering solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of each market segment it serves. With a focus on quality and client satisfaction, Harrison French and Associates aims to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of various projects, ensuring they align with industry standards and client expectations.
Made 1 investment in Architecture

Artelia

Artelia is an international engineering firm that specializes in providing consultancy, project management, and engineering services across various sectors, including mobility, water, energy, building, and industry. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, such as feasibility and planning studies, design and construction supervision, and front-end engineering design. Additionally, Artelia assists clients with statutory studies, operational and maintenance support, and laboratory testing. By leveraging its technical and management expertise, the firm aims to ensure the successful execution of projects throughout their entire lifecycle, catering to both public and private sector clients.
Made 2 investments in Architecture

FARO Technologies

FARO Technologies, Inc. is a technology company that specializes in designing, developing, manufacturing, marketing, and supporting software-driven three-dimensional (3D) measurement and imaging solutions globally. The company operates through three segments: 3D Manufacturing, Construction BIM, and Emerging Verticals. Its product offerings include the FaroArm, a portable articulated measurement arm with accompanying software, and the FARO ScanArm, which features both hard probe and non-contact laser line probe capabilities. Additional products include the FARO Laser Tracker, FARO Tracer, and FARO Focus laser scanner, which enable the measurement and collection of data points. FARO also provides the FARO ScanPlan, a handheld mapper for capturing two-dimensional floor plans, and a range of software solutions tailored to various industries. These solutions serve applications in manufacturing, industrial sectors, architecture, surveying, building information modeling, construction, public safety forensics, and cultural heritage. Founded in 1981, FARO Technologies is headquartered in Lake Mary, Florida.

Michael Baker International

Michael Baker International is a global provider of engineering and consulting services focused on addressing complex infrastructure challenges. The company specializes in a wide range of services, including architectural design, environmental assessments, program management, and landscape architecture. With a commitment to enhancing community well-being, Michael Baker International serves a diverse clientele that includes federal, state, and municipal governments, as well as foreign allied governments and various commercial clients. The firm aims to deliver solutions that not only meet the technical needs of its clients but also contribute positively to the communities in which they operate. Through its comprehensive approach, Michael Baker International addresses mission-critical needs while ensuring satisfaction for its clients.
Made 1 investment in Architecture

Retineo

Retineo SL is a company that specializes in engineering, rehabilitation, and restoration services, encompassing both new construction and the conservation of existing structures. The firm employs advanced technology alongside traditional methods to address various stages of project development, including material studies, non-destructive testing, damage assessment, and instrumentation. Retineo's expertise extends to drafting plans and providing comprehensive monitoring and follow-up services, ensuring thorough oversight throughout the process. Their focus includes civil projects, artistic works, and unique buildings, aiming to blend innovation with heritage preservation.
Made 1 investment in Architecture

Brinc

Brinc is a global venture acceleration firm headquartered in Hong Kong. It operates multidisciplinary accelerator programs across seven countries, focusing on startups in blockchain technology, AI, connected hardware, robotics, climate tech, food technology, and IoT. Brinc also supports corporations with innovation strategies and Web3-enabled businesses.
Made 5 investments in Architecture