This two-semester module is an introduction to the architectural design process. It focuses on creative methods and processes used to develop architectural projects. Students will explore how to identify and develop designs for residential and community buildings of varying size and complexity, through 2D and 3D forms of interrogation (sketching, drawings, models etc) particular to the student, brief and context. Students will also explore how to represent and communicate project work to peers and colleagues.
The module emphasises the importance of context. It will examine how to strengthen and develop existing sustainable urban spatial environments and their social and cultural significance. Students will learn how to analyse, record and represent these buildings and spatial environments and how to integrate new innovative design proposals.
The module will explore how to analyse architectural precedent using qualitative and quantitative methods. Lessons on the principles of architectural space and building fabric will be examined through drawings and models and will inform student’s design projects.
The ethics of climate and environmental responsibility are central to the module. Students will explore sustainability using established urban principals of adaptive reuse and densification. Particular attention is paid to the objectives, targets, and indicators outlined in theUN’s Sustainable Development Goal 11, which focuses on Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Introduction and development of spatial thinking.
Introduction to the fundamental principles of cities, urban design, and sustainable urban development.
Sustainable and resilient housing in the city.
Sustainable and resilient communities in the city.
Analysing, understanding and recording context and existing buildings.
Adaptive reuse of empty / underused sites, buildings, materials.
Ethics and environmental responsibility.
Sustainable construction.
Development of analytical and interrogative drawing and modelling skills.
Development of critical and reflective thinking.
Introduction and development of design process methodologies.
Development of presentation and communication methods.
Large scale space making – large span city / community structures/
Small scale space making – small span housing fabric.
Study trip.
Teaching will be delivered predominately through collaborative and individual project based learning. This will be supported by research, studio tutorials and reviews and a study trip. Diverse teaching methods will be employed including desk work, collaborative discussion, group work, group problem-solving, research and precedent studies, interrogative drawing and modeling development, process development, communication and presentation development, etc.
The module is predicated on the Design Studio as the core learning and teaching environment. This is sustained through conducting live demonstrations, peer-to-peer learning, one-to-one tutorials, group reviews, group discussions, and the evidenced production and body of work generated within the Design Studio itself. This learning environment reflects the reality of architectural practice as a collaborative and social discipline.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |