Class Architectural Theory 4.1

This course aims to introduce notions of the architecture of public space and multiple facilities. The syllabus is based on an analysis of some carefully selected moments of the 20th century, which we believe are absolutely crucial for architectural theory, from a perspective of the construction of public space. The study of public living experiences, their characteristics and forms will be promoted. The debate will be promoted so that students can differentiate between the various forms of equipment through the systematic study of public space architecture, through the critical analysis of paradigmatic case studies by authors who identify and materialise the architectural form of public space (equipment and its surrounding urban spaces).  

Not applicable

1.    Alvar Aalto / Nordic empiricism;   2.    Alison and Peter Smithson / Team 10;   3.    Post-war ramifications / Louis Kahn, Eero Saarinen and James Stirling;   4.    Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown;   5.    The Ulm School and the scientificisation of the method. Christopher Alexander  6.    Architecture research centres "Radical Pedagogies" Europe vs United States of America;   7.    Postmodernism / Deconstructivism;

The unit takes the form of theoretical-practical sessions showing images and discussing the topics covered, linking disciplinary content with the methodologies adopted. Classes promote contextualisation and critical problematisation through the analysis of case studies provided, and students are expected to present reasoned argumentative reflections. Assessment is continuous, taking into account attendance, participation, involvement in discussions and the quality of the work presented. The student will have to write an articulate and reasoned final essay, accompanied by images, reflecting their ability to analyse and synthesise the content covered. This essay, its oral presentation and a personal portfolio-type notebook constitute the main assessment elements of the course.

  Banham, R. (1960). Theory and design in the first machine age. The Architectural Press.  Frampton, K. (1985). Mies van der Rohe. Rizzoli.  Frampton, K. (2020). Modern architecture: A critical history. Thames & Hudson.  Giedion, S. (1941). Space, time and architecture: The growth of a new tradition. Harvard University Press.  Le Corbusier. (1923). Towards a new architecture. Dover Publications.  Mumford, E. (2000). The CIAM and the development of modern architecture. Princeton Architectural Press.  Nesbitt, K. (1995). The theory and design of Marcel Breuer. Yale University Press.  Pevsner, N. (1943). An outline of European architecture. Penguin Books.  Tafuri, M. (1976). Architecture and utopia: Design and capitalist development. MIT Press.  Van den Heuvel, D. (1997). CIAM 1933-1959: A critical review of the modern movement. Prestel.  Wolfs, R. (2005). De Stijl: The Dutch modernist movement. Phaidon Press. Wright, F. L. (1953). The future of architecture. Horizon Press.