Course overview: 

“Applied Design Concepts” is an advanced architectural design seminar that examines the connection between the conceptual understanding of design and form generation. Students will revisit formal outputs derived from relevant conceptual approaches within the discipline of architecture and art. As part of the seminar, students will have opportunities to study and replicate projects/topics in architecture and art to comprehend the conceptual approaches. Additionally, they will engage in small tasks of ideation, design, and development during class time, all of which will be complemented by the use of conceptual model making as a powerful tool for design exploration.

 

Conceptual and prototype model making will be introduced as a design methodology. Students will engage in creating physical and digital models that represent their architectural ideas and concepts. We will also visit planners, artists, and venues to comprehend the connection between concept and realization. These excursions and collaborations will provide students with the opportunity to explore projects in different stages of development and witness how architectural and other conceptual ideas are translated into practical implementation. This exposure will contribute to a deeper understanding of the practical application of conceptual approaches in the architectural context.

 

This Year’s Topics:

 “Light is incredibly sensual; it’s about movement, and it’s about how you can create the feeling of time passing.” Olafur Eliasson 

In this course, we will delve into the topic of light and its various concepts in architecture and art, from ancient to contemporary ones. Light is a fundamental element in architecture, often regarded as a material in its own right. It shapes spaces, enhances textures, and creates moods, transforming ordinary environments into extraordinary experiences. By manipulating natural and artificial light, architects can highlight architectural features, define spatial boundaries, and influence the perception of depth and volume. The interplay of light and shadow adds a dynamic quality to structures, making them come alive as the light changes throughout the day. Integrating light into the design process not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also improves the functionality and sustainability of architectural spaces. As Frank Lloyd Wright stated, “More and more, so it seems to me, light is the beautifier of the building.”

 

We will work on different conceptual prototypes that represent the topic of light and space. Through hands-on projects, students will explore how light interacts with architectural forms, experimenting with various materials and design approaches to create innovative lighting solutions and spatial experiences. As Palladio emphasized, “Light is what gives character to a room. Without it, nothing can be seen or appreciated, and its distribution is of utmost importance to achieve harmony and balance in a space.” 

 

Additionally, we will utilize light simulation software to analyze and refine our designs, ensuring optimal integration of light within architectural contexts.

We will work on conceptual prototypes that represent the topic of light and space. These prototypes, along with the documentation of their design processes, will be presented both digitally and analog. Attendance and active participation of each student will contribute to the final grade.