Course overview
This course focuses on the critical interpretation of architectural and landscape architectural history and its strategic relationship with contemporary design thinking and practice. In recognition of the diverse nature of professional agency and mastery within the discipline, the course introduces students to professional careers and leadership roles beyond traditional modes of professional practice as critics, theorists, historians or curators. Accordingly, the major assignment may take the form of an illustrated written essay, audio-visual presentations, or a curated exhibition on a relevant topic.
Course learning outcomes
- A grasp of the range of disciplinary positions within architecture and landscape architecture
- An understanding of the relation between the discourse of architecture and landscape architecture, and physical, cultural and historical contexts
- An appreciation of the relevance of architectural, landscape, and design histories to contemporary understandings in these disciplines, and their contribution to shaping new configurations of theory and practice
- Demonstrate high-level research gathering and writing skills, particularly in communication and critique of design propositions and design argument
- Undertake close reading of a variety of textual genres, including design briefs, critical project reviews, newspaper articles, selected planning legislation and similar documents
- Undertake close 'reading' and analysis of built architectural and urban form