A4626 Architectural Detailing
Technology ElectiveRobert M. Rogers
COURSE DESCRIPTION
So often we examine the broad conceptual underpinning of architectural design the metaphor, the map, the mirror, the concealed text, the political or historical recapitulation. This course continues that examination to the level; of specific technical and material details through reading, field trips, presentations, the sketch problems.
READING AND CASE STUDIES
This course will examine the development of architectural details according to specific conceptual approaches. We will read texts describing particular techniques and inventions, like Michael Benedikt's Deconstructing the Kimbell, and Judith Sheine's Construction and the Shindler Frame. The course will begin with presentations of specific projects and an analysis of details for conceptual and technical comparison.
For example, in James Freed's Holocaust Museum: what is the origin of the brickwork pattern, the articulated steel connections, and the material combinations? How does he reconcile specific needs of a conceptual premise with the Washington DC establishment and Arts Commission requirements? How do the criteria for technical and material resolution merge with construction technique and the desire for permanence and durability?
FIELD TRIPS
The class will make several schedule trips to view fabrication and as-built conditions. On these trips we will examine the following: the overall effectiveness of certain detailing strategies, the actual material use, the technical competence, the construction implications (for material, schedule and trade), conditions of physical and phenomenological endurance, and the inventiveness of the detail in combing all the above.
DETAIL STUDIES, SKETCH PROBLEMS
Throughout the semester, a series of sketch problems will be devoted to the development of detail and material strategies from the student's own work. This can be from a current or recent project. Towards the end of the semester, we will work to resolve at least one major technical detail or building component in drawing and model form; computer assisted modeling and visualization is encouraged.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Each student will participate in all classes and field trips. Each student will complete two sketch problems and a final project. We will have interim pin-ups and technical reviews, and a final review with invited critics for all student projects.