Class Theory of Architecture 2.1

The syllabus of the course unit Theory 2.1 is based on the social and technological transition between the 19th and 20th centuries, the context in which the Modern Movement emerged. Placing particular emphasis on new programmes and their role in the construction and transformation of cities, the course explores key texts and manifestos that shaped architectural production in the first half of the 20th century. It considers the cultural, social, and political influences on construction, especially within the context of the modern city.

Not applicable

Antecedentes e Universo Conceptual: Contexto histórico e arquitetónico do século XIX e as transformações da Revolução Industrial. Introdução de novos materiais: aço e betão, e as suas consequências espaciais e programáticas. L. Sullivan e A. Loos: O abandono do ornamento. Le Corbusier: Manifesto e obras principais (habitação moderna).

A range of diverse sessions is organised, supported by pedagogical strategies aimed at promoting student engagement, facilitating content understanding and its articulation with practical application. Sessions are based on interactive teaching, encouraging participation through questioning and fostering critical reflection. The flipped classroommethodology is used, with materials made available in advance via Moodle, alongside storytelling and real-life case studies grounded in students’ everyday experiences. Classes, whether held in the classroom or during visits to buildings and exhibitions, combine various media — slides, videos, texts, and live demonstrations. An inclusive atmosphere is cultivated, encouraging students to participate without fear of making mistakes, while continually connecting content with other areas of knowledge, supporting a contextual and interdisciplinary understanding of architecture.

Loos, A. (1997). Ornamento e crime. Cosac Naify. Banham, R. (1960). Theory and Design in the First Machine Age. Praeger. Giedion, S. (1982). Espaço, tempo e arquitetura: O desenvolvimento de uma nova tradição. Martins Fontes. Le Corbusier. (1923). Vers une architecture. G. Crès et Cie.