Foundations of Architectural Design

This unit introduces students to the core concepts, vocabulary, and history of architecture, emphasizing form, function, style, and the essential elements of design. Students will explore basic structural systems, building types, programming, and the architect’s role to prepare for subsequent units in technical drafting and building systems.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze examples of architecture (historic and contemporary) to identify elements of design, style characteristics, and the influence of culture and program on form
• Apply principles of space, scale, proportion, mass, and basic structural systems (trabeated and arcuated) to create simple conceptual sketches and diagrams
• Demonstrate understanding of the project lifecycle and professional roles by outlining the steps from programming through construction documentation for a selected small building type
• Evaluate local or visited buildings using design criteria and program requirements and produce a brief report with annotated photographs or sketches