The fall semester is devoted to a problem which emphasizes the role of sound in architectural design. Individual interests are pursued while formal, programmatic, and technical requirements posed by a complex multi-functional urban building are resolved. Buildings that exhibit technical systems with an exemplary level of clarity are used as case studies. Construction systems discussed include post and beam, frame and platform, wood and steel, load-bearing masonry walls and concrete frame. This course is coordinated with the Design Installation Workshop.
Students develop details to support their conceptual ideas formulated in the design studio.
This course investigates technologies that produce controlled environments for human comfort. Heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning are seen in the context of natural processes and alternative technologies, such as the passive and active uses of solar and wind energies. This year-long seminar offers a historical survey of movements in architecture, landscape, and urban design from the eighteenth century to the present. The course explores the impact of philosophy, religion, science, and politics on design theory and practice. The class also explores historically recurrent themes and issues including geometry and architecture, tradition and innovation, nature vs. culture.