OBJECTIVES
The general objectives of this studio consist of differentiation (design), manipulation of materials (tectonic aspects), observation, recording, use of, confrontation with unorthodox architectural elements and concepts (e.g., framing, movement, parallax, lighting, angles of vision, montage, mise-en-scène, etc... )
COURSE CONTENT
The course content of this D&C II module emphasizes:
1. The development of skills to solve architectural problems.
2. The development of the ability to transform ideas into form.
3. The development of communication skills.
4. The development of a sensitivity and understanding of materials.
FORMAT
The class is divided into three sections. Each section groups approximately ten to twelve students under the supervision of a design instructors and a teaching assistant. The course-work of the studio is structured around a series of architectural projects which will vary in size, scope, and intent to provide ample exposure to various types of problems. An attempt is made to maintain a balance between individual and team work. The studio work is complemented by a series of informal talks dealing with design related themes among which design methodology, construction principles, and representation.
One of the features of this Design and Construction studio module is the introduction of the students to hands-on experience by working in the various areas of the workshop, namely wood (polymers), metal and clay. Assignments in the past have included the design and construction of chairs, a "gazebo", a celebratory ephemeral structure, wood joints, surveying instruments, etc...
EVALUATION CRITERIA
Evaluation of the output of each one of the members of the class will occur on three levels:
Project Evaluation, Sketchbook, and Personal Level.
1. PROJECT EVALUATION
Projects will be evaluated, in terms of quality, through the following format:
a. PRESENTATION
Conceptualization or the depth of the solution
Resolution or clarity of the results
Comprehensiveness or the range of the solution
b. REPRESENTATION
Clarity in communication of ideas
Craftsmanship or level of control over media and tools of presentation
2. SKETCHBOOK
The sketchbook plays an important role in determining overall performance. The sketchbook gives a presentation form to the events of the semester. It packages the developed objects and activities and may help to clarify unresolved conflicts. The sketchbook should include observations, whether written or drawn, thoughts, etc...It can be thought as a diary of involvement, thus including personal objectives, concepts and strategies. The Sketchbook plays a fundamental role in the evaluation process.
3. PERSONAL LEVEL
The personal level is more abstract in nature but it will take into account your involvement during the term, the energy spent for production and development and the growth over time.
Note: If you, at any time have a question as to your standing, please feel free to contact us so that we may discuss the matter.
GRADING AND FEEDBACK
Final grades will be in letters. The percentage grade weight of this term's projects is as follows:
70% of final grade for projects.
20% of final grade for sketchbook.
10% of final grade for performance, development, participation in the studio.
At midterm each student will receive a general evaluation of performance. At this point each student's progress will be evaluated using four general indicators:
1.- High caliber work that meets with expectation in terms of level of ideas, quality of work, and effort.
2.- Good work that needs an extra effort, in terms of design thinking or quality of work, to obtain category one standing.
3.- Acceptable work that needs improvement, either at the level of content, rigour, or work performance.
4 .-Unsatisfactory work that shows either lack of effort or lack of in arch design.
There will be also one 15 minute meeting with each student at at the end of the term in order to provide in depth feedback. All projects will be due on the established deadlines. Deadlines will be established in concert with the class to avoid major conflicts during midterm exam period as well as any other major deadlines or events. Tardy projects ( without a valid excuse) will loose a full grade for each extra day.
READINGS
Discussion of readings is scheduled every week, starting the second week of the term.We will meet from 9:00 to 12:00 a.m. every Monday to discuss assigned readings and design issues. Afternoon sessions will be often scheduled from 2:00 to 5:00 to accommodate reviews, screening and other activities. Room 205
Required texts: Roland Barthes, Empire of Senses, and George Perec, Species of Spaces and other Pieces,both available at Paragraph Bookstore.
Required reading for Monday 11 January: Empire of the Senses
Additional readings addressing various themes will be handed out throughout the term.
SCALE OF PROJECTS
We will be addressing two scales throughout the various design exercises of this term: micro (object), intermediate (building), and macro (site).
TERRITORY
The principal territory of our exploration this term will be the city.
RLC/D&CII.2005
