The Bilbao Guggenhein Museum: Topics in Project Management

The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao has had an unprecedented impact not only on the city of Bilbao but also on the value of design and the public\’s perception of architecture worldwide. This seminar focuses on the \”other\” elements, hidden in the team of people and organizations that make good architecture possible and allow architects to reach their potential. The seminar introduces fundamentals of project management as related to project delivery, owner relations, cost estimating, budget control, and scheduling. The conception, design and construction of the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao constitutes the basis for discussion, with a focus on process, leadership, management and technology. The seminar is based on a case studies approach, with cases from other projects complementing the museum\’s case, to provide a basis for understanding the complex process of architectural works.In the Spring 2009, the course will be offered in Bilbao, during Spring break. Students will depart on Saturday March 21 and return on Sunday March 29. There is a limited enrolment and the Real Estate and Project Management area of study of the MDesS program have a priority. Students in those programs should contact Barbara Elfman by January 26, 9:30 am, if they would like to take the course. An early lottery will be held to determine course enrollment, and the results of the lottery are binding. The selected students will be allowed two choices in the regular course lottery. Note: there is a $300 cost to students (not including meals and incidentals) for travel associated with this seminar.