Prerequisites

Completion of ARC 386K.

Course Format

Theories of architecture attempt to provide a framework for architectural practice and to relate that practice to society. This course will introduce you to texts that have played pivotal roles in defining architectural thought in the West so that you will be able to sharpen your critical response to contemporary discourse and anchor your own positions. The thrust of this no-lecture seminar will be on reading and discussion.

Short, succinct critical reports on readings, raising questions for discussion will be due weekly.

Texts

Kate Nesbitt, ed., Theorizing a New Agenda for Architecture: An Anthology of Architectural Theory, 1965-1995 (Princeton: Princeton Architectural Press, 1996)

Course Reader available at University Co-op.

Accommodations for Students with Disabilities

Any student with a documented disability (physical or cognitive) who requires academic accommodations should contact the Services for Students with Disabilities area of the Office of the Dean of Students at 471-6259 as soon as possible to request an official letter outlining authorized accommodations. I will do my best to work with you.

Evaluation

Participation in class discussions 50%; weekly critical reports related to readings 30%, a class presentation of a book, article chosen by the student 20%.

Thematic Topics

• Theories of origin and meaning
• The doctrine of classicism in Western architecture
• Typology
• Theories of architectural space
• Theories of architectural composition
• Structural rationalism, tectonics
• Architecture as an ethical position
• Theories of Urban Form