Architectural Design Studio 1A
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| ABEE1002 | Architecture and Built Environment | 1 | 20 | Autumn UK |
- Code
- ABEE1002
- School
- Architecture and Built Environment
- Level
- 1
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn UK
Summary
The first-year Semester 1 studio programme is designed to introduce the discipline of architectural design in logical progression. The year starts by setting up an architectural enquiry through observation and awareness of spatial considerations in response to a specific environment. At each key stage new skills are introduced, culminating with the design of a small building which tests students' understanding and application of the knowledge achieved. The focus in year 1 is on communication of an understanding of the client and addressing the unique site with emphasis on clearly demonstrating the process of each individual design. This reflective and narrative approach is backed up with clear analysis and strategic application. The balance between technical rigour and a more individual creative approach is encouraged.
The studio day usually begins with a lecture which clearly outlines through a pragmatic approach the introduction of new skills to inspire and direct. This is supported by a further theoretical exploration through the taught module lecture series.
Coursework consists of group and individual. This fosters a collaborative learning environment.
The module commences with Foundations: skill building in which students are introduced to freehand drawing, perception, spatial composition, observation of people and context, Architectural Orthographic Drawings, model making and analysis of key 20th Century houses. This is followed by an international field trip in which students expand their architectural vocabulary. The final section is Design Integration One which introduces students to the process of designing a small building for an individual client on a site of landscape of architectural significance, whilst testing the skills they have gained during Foundations. The small building design challenge of Design Integration one requires students to demonstrate awareness of design ethics, as well as the influence of the Arts on architectural design.
If a student fails both this module and ABEE1003 at the first attempt, they will be required to pass both modules by resitting them in attendance before progressing to the next stage of the K100 BArch (Hons) Architecture programme or the K230 MEng (Hons) Architecture and Environmental Design programme (as applicable)
Target Students
Architecture (K100)Architecture and Environmental Design students(K230)
Assessment
- 100% Coursework 1: Portfolio of design projects, models and sketchbooks
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
To introduce students to the skills and approaches to architectural design at a basic level, culminating in the design of a small building for a chosen client on a given site. To introduce students to a process of design investigation and development. To assist students in the acquisition of the following contribute Graduate Attributes, as described in the Architects' Registration Board (ARB) Part 1 Prescription of qualifications:For the students to demonstrate the ability to create architectural designs that satisfy both aesthetic and technical requirements, as well as starting the process of learning to prepare and present building design projects of a modest scale, complexity, and type in a given context, using a range of media, and in response to a brief (GA1.1).For students to start the process of demonstrating the ability to apply a range of communication methods and media to present design proposals clearly and effectively (GA1.2).For the students to have the ability to evaluate evidence, arguments and assumptions in order to make and present sound judgments within a structured discourse relating to architectural culture, theory and design (GA1.4).To fulfil in part the Architects' Registration Board (ARB) Prescription of qualifications: ARB Criteria at Part 1, specifically the General Criteria (GC) at Part 1, for students participating in the BArch K100 course.Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module, students will:
Demonstrate the ability to create modest, small scale architectural designs that satisfy both aesthetic and technical requirements, as well as starting the process of learning to prepare and present building design projects of a modest scale, complexity, and type in a given context, using a range of media, and in response to a brief (GC1,GC1.3).
Demonstrate knowledge how the theories, practices and technologies of the arts influence architectural design (GC3.1).
Demonstrate the understanding of relationship between people and buildings, within a designed landscape setting, and the need to relate buildings and the spaces between them to human needs and scale and to demonstrate an understanding of the way in which buildings fit into their local context (GC 5.1, GC 5.3)