702-305 Theories of Architecture

A level-2 history of architecture subject.

This subject introduces students to a history of theories in architecture in the modern era from the pre-war decades to the present. It introduces theories available in English and those which have significantly influenced design practice in the West and parts of the Asia-Pacific region from the 1920s and 1950s to the present. Development of ideas in other regions and times may be explored by students in relation to these theories. In general this subject provides a temporal, historical and sociopolitical perspective in which contemporary anxieties, polemics and strategies can be understood. This shall prepare students for their own inquiry and for a development of their own design and critical positions in the following years.

On completion of the subject students should be able to:

• Have an introductory knowledge of the major architectural theories of the modern era in the West and parts of Asia

• Investigate a particular architectural theory for critical debate and to develop it for their own design practice.

On completion of the subject students should have developed skills in research, critical analysis and writing and some experience with group work.

Assignments not more than 5000 words.