The module will present series of lectures related to the modern architecture in and outside Africa.
All the lectures and course materials will be available on the internet site: www.cstmanlio.wordpress.com
Tectonics and Order. This course is intended to expand on conceptual architectural design introduced in the first year, with issues of programme and context gradually introduced as co-generators of design. Through architectural drawings and models, quality of space is emphasized and programmatic considerations related to the human condition are explored aiming to reach the design of a DRONEPORT.
This module explores the effects of global developments and political events on the process of transformation of Modern architecture and its subsequent reactions and implications. In continues and completes the tracing of thematic influences from on architecture from the previous two History classes, culminating in an analysis of contemporary practices. The module digresses briefly to explore the historical roots of such practices, particularly in Africa, to form a basis of understating the existing scenarios prior to the process of dissemination and absorption of modern architecture and its meaning in both the developed and developing world. Taken into account are the local climate and conditions, traditions building techniques and materials and how these factors were influential in defining a new form of architecture.
ARC2163 Building Environmental Science 1 (Lighting) is designed to engage students with the general principles of lighting and the specific differences and interplay required between artificial lighting and daylight and how each is key in controlling energy consumption and contributing to human comfort.
Whereas the module will be anchored to the principles of climate responsive design, it will build on the process of architectural lighting design that focuses on three fundamental aspects of the illumination of the built environment. The first is the ergonomic aspect: the measure of how the function of that environment influences the lighting design and light will affect the health and comfort of the people living and/or working in that environment. Secondly is the energy efficiency issue to ensure that light/energy is not wasted by over-illumination. Thirdly is the aesthetic appeal of a building. Each of these three aspects should be looked at in considerable detail when the architect is at work.
The ergonomic and functional aspects of the project can encompass the need for the project to be visible, the impact of light on the project and safety and health issues. The energy efficiency aspects address the need to use daylight whenever possible and only use artificial light as a complement to daylight or “daylight linked artificial lighting”. In terms of aesthetics, the lighting designer attempts to raise the general attractiveness of the design, measure whether it should be subtly blended into the background or whether it should stand out.
Students will undertake a series of tasks/assignments during the course in addition to one that will integrate their design studio, over which they shall develop lighting design solutions for their individual design project.
Building on the design methodologies the students have learned in the core curriculum, this module will introduce students to what sustainability is and how to learn to apply it from a global and local perspective. By exploring the concept of sustainability, reviewing passive strategies, exploring technological solutions and presenting case studies of successful low-carbon or carbon neutral design and building work, the course builds the students’ knowledge and awareness of principles of sustainable design and practice. Lectures will be delivered as precursors to key readings and case studies in parallel with research and practical learning activities by the students. As part of the module, practitioners will be invited to offer real world perspective.
Students will undertake a series of tasks/assignments during the course in addition to one that will integrate their design studio, over which they shall apply key sustainable design methodologies.