Course overview
This course equips students with a holistic understanding of ecological systems, including behavioural, cultural, and environmental science and their applications in architecture. It considers natural and built environments as complex living systems to achieve wider sustainability and liveability targets in urban settings. Students develop skills to (1) critically review theories, concepts, principles and framework related to climate change mitigation and adaptation, sustainability and liveability in cities (2) understand and operate key tools, software and processes to analyse, evaluate and represent precedents, and (3) articulate theories, concepts and technical advances to propose ecological design interventions in existing urban settings.
Course learning outcomes
- Demonstrate knowledge of ecologically and socially responsive design principles relevant to spatial, social, cultural, political, ethical, and climate contexts
- Develop skills in using environmental assessment tools and simulation software to assess building and site performance
- Demonstrate the use of environmental assessments tools and software as part of an iterative design process
- Develop an experiential understanding of ecologically responsive design and apply creative imagination to how existing contexts may change
- Demonstrate an ability to represent, communicate and justify design decisions that respond to ecological assessment