AA1DS1-Architecture and Design - An Introduction to Studio

Module Provider: School of Architecture, School of Built Environment
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites: AA1HTI History and Theory of Architecture: an Introduction AA1IPI Industry and Practice - the Business Context of Architecture AA1VCI Visualisation and Communication in Architectural Design ô€€– An Introduction AA1STI Construction Technology: an Introduction and AA1DS2 Architecture and Design - An Introduction to Site
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Ms Amy Butt
Email: a.v.b.butt@reading.ac.uk

Module Co-convenor: Dr Penelope Plaza
Email: p.plaza@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
This is the first in a series of related design modules. It provides an introduction to architectural design and to working in a studio environment. There will be opportunities for the creative application of skills and knowledge gained across the undergraduate curriculum to a range of 3D design projects. It will introduce students to three dimensional thinking around space, form and architectural design. Students will develop skills including sketching, freehand drawing, technical drawing and model-making to explore and develop their design capabilities.

Aims:
The module aims to develop studentsô€€’ design skills and creativity and to provide opportunities to apply knowledge and skills developed from teaching and learning activities within other first year modules, particularly the Visualisation and Communication module.

Assessable learning outcomes:

At the end of this module, students will be able to:

1. Communicate effectively by means of a range of visual representation and communication methods, well-considered and creative design proposals for 3D design projects

2. Demonstrate ability to apply a range of communication methods and media to design proposals clearly and effectively

3. Prepare and present building design projects of diverse scale, complexity, and type in a varie ty of contexts, using a range of media, and in response to a brief

4. Demonstrate the way in which buildings fit into their local context

5. Understand the physical properties and characteristics of building materials, components and systems, and the environmental impact of specification choices

Additional outcomes:
Students will also gain an awareness of the value of visualisation to support design development, evaluation and decision making, and an appreciation of the value of design studio in relation to teaching and learning activities.

Outline content:

Students will undertake the design of projects, typically related to the following:

1. Simple structures

2. Spatial and 3D design projects

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They will also explore topics such as:

1. Understanding user needs: anthropometrics, comfort, access and scale

2. Exploring colour, form, space, order and geometry

3. Symbolism, language and style in architectur e

Global context:
The skills and knowledge which the student will acquire from this module have universal application.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
The module will predominantly be taught within the studio environment by tutors working with small groups of students over the duration of a project. Students will generate design proposals in studio, making use of workshop facilities and technical support. Such activities are supported by lectures, and tutorials which will incorporate 􀀑crit􀀒 sessions. The module will involve experimentation and the development of design proposals and visual representations both by individual exploration and kno wledge- sharing and collaboration, providing extensive opportunities for peer to peer learning.