Introduction to Architecture / Design
To claim that architecture today faces a philosophical problem and to suggest that philosophical reflection should be part of any well-constructed program of architectural education is to claim not just that architects have become uncertain of their way and of the maps on which they have been relying, but that such uncertainty reflects a deeper uncertainty about how we ought to live, where our place should be, and how architects are to help shape that place, to “edify”, to build in that sense.”
— Karsten Harries, “The Ethical Function of Architecture”
This introductory architectural course is not is a historical survey course that focuses on individual iconic buildings to introduce the value and meaning of architecture. Nor is it solely a design or visualization course. In essence, it is an introduction to the endeavour of architecture as an act of making, a creative profession and the quintessential “social” art. This study will be undertaken from the frame of the intrinsic connection between theory and practice as well as the uncertain status of architecture today exploring important concepts to, dialogues emerging from, and discussions centered upon the role and value of architecture and the built environment. These lectures will also introduce important issues facing the professions involved in the design and construction of the built environment as well as some fundamental aspects of the conceptual language used to formulate architecture’s basic organizing elements and languages.