Rachel Will

This course investigates the materials and techniques used in North American building construction. The history and development of materials, their physical properties, and characteristics are studied. Building construction methods are explored including adobe, wood, stone, brick, concrete, and steel construction. Research papers and oral presentations are required. Lecture and field trips.

Comprehensive design studio incorporates cultural and program analysis, systems analysis and principled component choice, and the design and documentation of a very complete building. Course Goals and Objectives 1) Design culture: methods of integration and information synthesis in contemporary architectural design. 2) Design practice: advanced design methods, emphasizing feasibility, and comprehension through the design of a large building with an extensive systems integration challenge. 3) Design techniques and skills: develop an advanced level of architectural representation, with an emphasis on analysis, plans, sections and elevations, and model construction.

This is a comprehensive design studio focused on a complex building design and its systems. Three milestone critiques during the semester are also punctuated with nine project assignments that interface with the project development.