Design Construction (Principles)

Undergraduate | 2026

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Area/Catalogue
ARCH 1003
Course ID icon
Course ID
200798
Level of study
Level of study
Undergraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course level icon
Course level
1
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Inbound study abroad and exchange
Inbound study abroad and exchange
The fee you pay will depend on the number and type of courses you study.
Yes
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
Yes
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
Yes
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Note:
Course data is interim and subject to change

Course overview

This course introduces building construction principles and materials and aims to equip learners with an exploratory understanding of the inter-relationship between design intent and constructed outcome. The course will cover the relationship between design and construction, the principles of engineering, building skins, the role and conventions of architectural drawings and documentation, and an introduction to architectural detailing. Through a combination of making and drawing, learners will develop critical design development skills that enable a small-scale concept design that demonstrates an understanding of construction principles. This course assumes no prior architectural or construction experience and forms part of the fundamental design, construction, and material studies within the architecture program. The course is aligned with the program goal to enable learners to apply appropriate materials and construction systems to propose and communicate solutions for fabrication.

  • Construction Principles
  • Framing
  • Building Skin

Course learning outcomes

  • Analyse construction problems and employ research and critical thinking skills to determine solutions.
  • Integrate fundamental structural principles and knowledge of building materials to resolve speculative design ambitions.
  • Apply analogue architectural techniques and conventions to communicate construction principles and solutions.
  • Identify structural, material, and other contextual considerations in the development of architectural solutions.

Assessment

Multiple Choice Questions, Design Project

Degree list
The following degrees include this course