Aims

By the end of this course, students will be able to :
Understand the meaning and the place of theory within the discipline of architecture.
Become familiar with the mutual implications of theory and history of architecture.
Become familiar with the mutual relations between theory and design: "knowledge" and "know-how".
Formulate and explain some basic theoretical positions.

Main themes

After looking at the foundations, the methods, and the specific purposes of architectural theory, the course will sketch out the major theoretical propositions as produced in the course of Western architectural history, both as realized in concrete material and spatial systems, and as proposed or projected via the techniques of architectural drawing.
The course will distinguish between speculative theory and doctrine, between architectural theory and theoretical architecture. It will question the epistemological status of theory in architecture: autonomous discipline or hybrid of several disciplines? What do other sectors of knowledge bring to a theory of architecture (anthropology, philosophy, aesthetics, sociology, psychoanalysis, geography, etc.).?
The course will investigate the reciprocal relationships between theory, history, and design. Which comes first, which after? The investigation will be supported by case studies.

Content and teaching methods

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Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)

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Other credits in programs