ARCH13-131: Design Ethics and Design Detailing

This subject develops an understanding of the ethical concerns of architecture, its role in society in terms of meeting the needs and supporting the well-being of the individual and community, and in defining meaningful and lasting cultural identity.  This understanding is acquired through the critical study of and immersion with selected noted architects and design practices to investigate their underlying ethical values, design approach and practice methods.  This research will provide the foundation for the development of a personal architectural position and value set in order to define a model of future practice. In preparation for experience in practice, students are also provided with an overview of the legislative and legal framework in which the profession operates and potential future speculations. Students also undertake a series of tasks that assist in the development of key skills and strategies for use when seeking employment in the industry, as well as a short workplace immersion to gain relevant real-world exposure prior to completing the architecture degree. In addition to the understanding of a precedent architect’s ethical and conceptual framework, students will further develop critical thinking and decision making with regard to construction, material choice and detailing. Students will document and prototype the building envelope, skin and structure with consideration to constructability, weathering and aging, life cycle, embodied energy, material availability, use, services and wastage of a precedent project.