Theorie der Architektur und Entwerfen

Building science establishes a direct connection between architectural theory and architectural history on the one hand and architectural design on the other. It deals with examples of functional zoning, residential layouts or types of access. Students receive basic knowledge on the elements of exterior and interior building organization. Lectures introduce typologies for residential, cultural or infrastructural buildings. They are discussed and evaluated according to principles and elements that contribute to the creation, organization and design of spaces. A terminology based on professional standards is communicated and serves to methodologically create building documentations. The acquired knowledge contributes to students’ design projects. This corresponds to a holistic understanding of architecture that refers to interactions between city and landscape on the one hand and public, open and private spaces on the other. Current debates within the field of architecture receive attention.

Students are required to research buildings in-depth. Possible methods include site visit and gathering data to establish an individual research base. This serves to analyze the data, formulate individual research questions, and draw related conclusions. Instrumental knowledge and intellectual motivations lead to gaining a better understanding of the built environment and create the ability to identify and comprehend spatial organization. Instrument- and idea-based aspects can, thus, be integrated within rational and analytical observation.

Students develop a theory-based tool-box for dealing with complex design tasks. Core to this is establishing a systematic understanding of typology and refining an architectural sense of perception. Creative design projects are enriched by the combination of rational factors of building (systems, flexibility, efficiency) with emotional factors.