Class Theory of Architecture II

The unit of Theory of Architecture 2 proposes a theoretical and critical approach to the field of architecture according to a thematic and transversal perspective. To do this it selectively summons the large archive of the history of the discipline from the great issues and debates that formed and substantiated over time. The thematic approach followed allows students to acquire a comprehensive field of knowledge, structured by major themes of the discipline, referenced in the main authors and architects determining the investigation of these themes. The first intention of this curricular unit is essentially to provide students with fundamental theoretical knowledge of the discipline of architecture. The second intention is to provide instruments of theoretical research that allow the approximation between theory and practice of architecture. 

1. Representation and discipline. The focus on the project and the rules of visualization in architecture.

2. Technique and construction. The evolution of the constructive systems as device for architectural transformation.

3. History and tradition. Historicism linear temporality and the physical permanence of materiality.

4. Space and expression. The path from the theories of character and the architectural sublime.

5. Matter and language. The issue of the tectonics as conciliation between material and detail.

6. City and habitat. The definition of the urban and the duality of permanence and transformation.

7. Ideal city and utopia. Theorization of the city between design geometrization and social programme.
 

The classes will be made up mainly by three complementary strands. On the one hand, there will be expositive theoretical sessions about the topics in the program, accompanied by audiovisual material. On the other hand, readings of fundamental essays will be carried out with the students of theoretical themes under study, in order to promote the collective critical debate. Finally, the development of students¿ work by will be monitored throughout the semester through discussion and guidance by the teacher. The evaluation of this curricular unit is composed of three lines: 1. Individual exam done in class in the end of the semester(50%). 2. Critical Report of an exhibition, conference or publication, both with text and images (40%). 3. Attendance and participation (10%). The students must have 75% presences in class to have evaluation, and 50% to do the exam.

- AAVV (2000). Teoria da Arquitectura do Renascimento até aos Nossos Dias. Koln: Taschen.

- Kruft, Hanno-Walter (1994). A History of Architectural Theory from Vitruvius to the Present. New York: Princeton Architectural Press.

- Mallgrave, Harry Francis (2006). Architectural Theory: An Anthology from Vitruvius to 1870 ¿ Volume I. Cambridge-Massachusetts, USA / Oxford, UK / Carlton, Australia: Blackwell.

- Mallgrave, Harry Francis (2008). Architectural Theory: An Anthology from 1871-2005. Cambridge-Massachusetts, USA / Oxford, UK / Carlton, Australia: Blackwell.