In Search of Design through Engineers

This course aims to teach, stimulate and demonstrate \”design led\” opportunities that exist in the zone between Architecture and Engineering, through the paradigm of Design Engineering. Positioned within the space of interdisciplinary boundaries, the course invites both GSD and MIT students to encourage and pioneer a joint, interdisciplinary discourse.
Eight high profile projects, won as design competitions and subsequently constructed, act as the platform to expand the thinking on:

  • Pioneering technical solutions;
  • Establishing a variety of aesthetic positions; and
  • Exploring transformational research in both design methodologies and technological developments.

The course structure covers a broad spectrum of architectural approaches that allow students to respond to each unique derivative position, from concept to construction. Through substantial and unpublished original material, students will engage with the early conceptual stages through to the detailed design process and construction. During the course, several project architect(s) from the cases will participate in the discussion.
Case studies will be studied in thematic modules, with each module lasting 4-5 sessions. Through fast design exercises, analysis, interaction and team work, students will become part of the project team in the most critical design decisions. Student work consists of two team assignments and a final design project. Student teams will be assigned for each assignment and present their analyses in class. The final design project will be a team project, and it will bring together all the themes of the course through the task of designing an architecture pavilion.
Case studies:
Highcross project, Ravensbourne college (FOA) & 2010 Shanghai Expo UK Pavilion (Heatherwick); Angel Building (AHMM), Heelis – National Trust HQ (FCB Studios) & Masdar city Phase 1 (Foster+ Partners); Phaeno Centre (Zaha Hadid) & Queen Mary Student Housing (FCB Studios)