Unit 2905: Architectural Theory and Practice

1. Introduction to Architectural Theory

• Definition of architectural theory
• Importance of theory in architecture
• Influence of theory on the design process
• Relationship between practice and theory

2. Historical Foundations of Architectural Theory

2.1 Ancient Civilizations

• Architectural principles in Ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome
• Vitruvius and 'De Architectura'

2.2 Medieval and Renaissance Theories

• Gothic architecture and symbolism
• Renaissance humanism and proportion

2.3 Enlightenment to 19th Century

• Neoclassicism and rationalism
• The Industrial Revolution's impact on theory

2.4 20th Century Developments

• Early modernist theories
• The Bauhaus and functionalism

3. Modernism and Postmodernism in Architecture

3.1 Modernism

• Key principles: form follows function, minimalism, and rationalism
• Influential architects and theorists: Le Corbusier, Mies van der Rohe

3.2 Postmodernism

• Reaction against modernism
• Characteristics: ornamentation, eclecticism, irony
• Prominent figures: Robert Venturi, Michael Graves

3.3 Influence on Architectural Practice

• Comparative analysis of modernist and postmodernist buildings

4. Semiotics and Architecture

• Introduction to semiotics: signs, symbols, and meanings
• Application of semiotics in architectural analysis
• Architecture as a language and mode of communication
• Case studies illustrating semiotic interpretation

5. Space and Place in Architectural Theory

• Definitions and distinctions between 'space' and 'place'
• Spatial relationships and human experience
• The role of place-making in architecture
• Techniques for manipulating space to evoke meaning

6. Sustainability and Architectural Theory

• Principles of sustainable design
• Green building practices and materials
• Environmental stewardship and ethical considerations
• Integration of sustainability in theoretical frameworks

7. Critical Regionalism

• Definition and origins
• Synthesizing modernism with local culture and environment
• Examples of critical regionalist architecture
• Critiques and ongoing debates

8. Gender and Architecture

• Overview of gender studies in architecture
• Impact of gender on architectural practice and design
• Designing inclusive and equitable spaces
• Case studies highlighting gendered spatial experiences

9. Phenomenology and Architecture

• Introduction to phenomenology
• Human perception and sensory engagement in space
• Theories by Christian Norberg-Schulz, Juhani Pallasmaa
• Designing for lived experience

10. Digital Technologies in Architecture

• Overview of parametric design and computational methods
• Building Information Modeling (BIM)
• Impact of digital tools on theory and practice
• Future trends and challenges

Note: Each section will include lectures, readings, discussions, and practical case study analyses to consolidate learning.