Theory of Architecture 1

Tulay Atak
Institute of Architecture , Theory of Architecture
2026W, Lecture with Practical Exercises (VU), 3.0 ECTS, 2.0 semester hours, course number S10271

Description

Theory of Arch 1 presents a survey of architectural theory from around 1970ies to this day, with an emphasis on contemporary developments since the nineties. The course will focus on questions of disciplinarity, form, mediums and media, as well as political, environmental and technological issues facing architecture today. In order to trace the transformation of thought, we will discuss each topic in two stages: modern vs postmodern, early vs. late, untimely vs. contemporary. We will consider the limits of the discipline, crutches of the profession and the agency of architectural imagination in addressing the urgent questions of today. 

Examination Modalities

The students will be expected to complete the weekly readings, participate in class discussions and complete the semester assignment in a timely manner. The semester assignment will be divided into several steps which will be completed throughout the semester. 

Comments

The course will consist of lectures and discussions. Attendance and participation in class discussions will determine part of the final grade. 

Dates

Thu, 08 October 2026, 09:00–10:30 Lecture Room 1
Thu, 15 October 2026, 09:00–10:30 Lecture Room 1
Thu, 22 October 2026, 09:00–10:30 Lecture Room 1
Thu, 29 October 2026, 09:00–10:30 Lecture Room 1
Thu, 05 November 2026, 09:00–10:30 Lecture Room 1
Thu, 12 November 2026, 09:00–10:30 Lecture Room 1
Thu, 19 November 2026, 09:00–10:30 Lecture Room 1
Thu, 26 November 2026, 09:00–10:30 Lecture Room 1
Thu, 03 December 2026, 09:00–10:30 Lecture Room 1
Thu, 10 December 2026, 09:00–10:30 Lecture Room 1
Thu, 17 December 2026, 09:00–10:30 Lecture Room 1
Thu, 07 January 2027, 09:00–10:30 Lecture Room 1
Thu, 14 January 2027, 09:00–10:30 Lecture Room 1
Thu, 21 January 2027, 09:00–10:30 Lecture Room 1
Thu, 28 January 2027, 09:00–10:30 Lecture Room 1

Course Enrolment

From 31 August 2026, 09:00
Via online registration

Art Education: study subject kkp (Bachelor): Academic Practice: FOR: Course from the Institute IKK.K 034/2026UBA-003.21

Art Education: subject kkp (Bachelor): Wissenschaftliche Praxis: FOR: Lehrveranstaltungen nach Wahl aus Wissenschaftliche Praxis 067/2016UBA-003.80

Art Education: subject dex (Bachelor): Wissenschaftliche Praxis: FOR: Lehrveranstaltungen nach Wahl aus Wissenschaftliche Praxis 074/2017UBA-003.80

TransArts - Transdisciplinary Arts (Bachelor): Theoretical foundations: Theoretical foundations 180/2025UBA-003.01

Architecture (Master): Expertise: Theory: History and Theory of Architecture 443/2011UMA-003.01

Expanded Museum Studies (Master): Electives: Theory and History of Architecture 537/2021UMA-080.22

Media Arts: Specialisation in Transmedia Arts (2. Section): Wissenschaft, Theorie und Geschichte : Architekturtheorie, Architekturgeschichte 566/2019U00-208.06

Media Arts: Specialisation in Digital Arts (2. Section): Wissenschaft, Theorie, Geschichte: Architekturtheorie, Architekturgeschichte 567/2019U00-208.06

Design: Specialisation in Design and Narrative Media (2. Section): Methodological and Theoretical Fundamentals: Humanities 576/2024U00-203.02

Design: Specialisation in Communication Design (2. Section): Methodological and Theoretical Basics: Humanities 577/2025U00-203.02

Design: Specialisation in Fashion Design (1. Section): Methodological and Theoretical Basics: Free Elective Pool Methodological and Theoretical Basics 584/2019U00-103.80

Fine Arts (2. Section): Scientific and Research Practice: Media Theory,Art&Knowledge Transfer,Th. of Architecture,Th. and Hist. of Design 605/2019U00-202.02

Fine Arts (2. Section): Scientific and Research Practice: Free Electives out of Scientific and Research Practice 605/2019U00-202.80

Co-registration: possible

Attending individual courses: possible