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This 6 hour and 42 Minute course is an orientation to architecture and design for the beginning student and a refresher for anyone who may work in the building industry.  The main objective of this class is to provide the student an education in how Architecture and design is created and understood as well as how it shapes the social and urban environment and in the graphic vocabulary necessary to function as a creative problem solver.  We will cover over arching topics that will give you a holistic understanding of all the areas of Architecture and design.  What an Architect does, the various architectural drawing types and how to read them, sustainability in building design, contemporary issues, consultants architects work with and how they work with them, building systems overview such as mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, portfolio preparation, the design phases, industry software and technology, and building typologies.  You will understand all things Architecture by the end of this course.  All the lectures are videos with compelling graphics to give you real world examples of all the topics being discussed.  Students will have knowledge of parallel vocations that a student with an education in architecture could pursue after their education is complete and the various career paths one can take with a education in Architecture. 

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Understand what is an architect and what do they do and the various careers paths you can take with a education in architecture
  • Learn about the various architectural drawing types
  • Understand all the design phases and sustainability
  • Cover a overview of industry software & technology, consultants architects use, and building systems.
  • Discuss the intern development program / architectural registration exam
  • Review all the various building typologies

Syllabus

The main objective of this class is to provide the student an education in how Architecture is created and understand how it shapes the social and urban environment.
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In this lecture students will understand the over arching course objective. We will discuss what Architecture is and what an Architect does. Students will also gain an understanding for where the profession was in past years and where it is presently, along with where it is moving in the future.

Students will understand the various Architectural drawings that they will encounter in the field of Architecture and Design.

In order to be a successful practicing Architect you must understand the various drawings you will ultimately be responsible for creating. After all, how do you take your vision and have it achieved in built form. You have to create a set of graphic instructions which a builder or contractor can than build.  Students will understand the various Architectural drawings that they will encounter in the field of Architecture and Design. These drawings are used in every type of building project and utilized across multiple disciplines within the context of the building industry.

Students will learn about energy efficiency, alternative energy sources, and sustainable design.

In this lecture students will learn about energy efficiency, alternative energy sources, and sustainable design.  Because we live in a world with limited resources, Sustainability in design has come to the forefront of design. You must design in an environmentally sensitive approach. This lesson will give you an overview of many of those strategies and technologies.

Students will understand what contemporary issues Architecture is addressing today and how Architecture and Design can shape the outcome.

The path of becoming an Architect involves many parts. You will not just be designing buildings for the sake of aesthetics but buildings that deal with everyday living. What this means, is you must be cognizant as a designer of what is happening around you and how the environment affects your building and how your building will affect the environment.  Students will understand what contemporary issues Architecture is addressing today and how Architecture and Design can shape the outcome.

Students will learn about the process involved with becoming a licensed Architect.

I would like to discuss your path to becoming a licensed professional one day. This may not be an immediate concern in your Architecture journey, however I felt it best to at least touch on it now so you are aware of it, and if you are already working in an Architects office you can begin to document your experience hours.  In this lesson students will learn about the process involved with becoming a licensed Architect.

Students will understand the various consultants Architects may use in the course of their career and on any given number of projects.

We will be covering various consultants you can utilize in completing Architectural projects one day as a practicing Architect. Many of the projects you will be designing are very complex and it would require you to bring in other professionals with expertise in those specific disciplines to help complete the project. In order to work alongside these consultants you must understand what they do and at what phase of the project it makes sense to have them join the process. Much of what you do will build upon what they will do in that process.  Students will understand the various consultants Architects may use in the course of their career and on any given number of projects. They will gain an understanding of what each of these consultants do and how they aid in the successful completion of a built project.

Students will learn about some of the most commonly used Construction Systems in the building industry.

As we progress in this course we will discuss construction and various types of building that an Architect will encounter as they normally will in the profession.  Students will learn about some of the most commonly used Construction Systems in the building industry. These will cover various aspects of a built structure and the purpose is for students to gain a general a base knowledge of these systems.

Students will learn the importance of Portfolio Preparation, transferring to a university Architecture program, applying for a job, and preparing a resume or geared towards a career.

We will be discussing how to prepare, format, and deliver a portfolio. This step is necessary in attaining employment and is a way to discuss the ins and outs of a powerful tool which will ultimately help you express who you are as a designer and your added value to an organization.  Students will learn the importance of Portfolio Preparation, transferring to a university Architecture program, applying for a job, and preparing a resume or geared towards a career path in Architecture and Design.

Students will learn about and be able to identify the primary reasons people choose or not choose architecture as a profession.

In today's world their is much more you can do with a degree in Architecture. We will go over other Professions you can go into with a foundational education in Architecture. It is important we discuss these possible career paths and how you will be prepared or better suited for them. Of course many of these paths would require additional supplemental education or training but Architecture will give you a good base to start from. Students will learn about and be able to identify the primary reasons people choose or not choose architecture as a profession.

In this lecture students will learn about the Design Phases.

In this lecture students will learn about the Design Phases. Initial Contact, Preliminary Design Studies, Initial Working Drawing, Final Design Considerations, Completion of Working Drawings, Permit Procedures, and Job Supervision. It is important for us to understand the steps involved in a typical design project. How do you start, see the project thru completion, and how to you end. Every project will be different but the strategy, steps, and framework is the same for the most part. It is good for students to go thru this process and understand it as they will be working with it in industry one day.

tudents will understand what software and technology to utilize in the creative design process to graphically/verbally communicate design ideas and concepts.

In this lecture students will learn about the types of Industry Software & Technology they will be able to utilize in order to execute graphic representation of their designs. This will be a very high level over view of the various types of tools we have in industry and education today. It is also useful to students so that if they have an opportunity to take courses or classes with these pieces of software that they pursue it as it will help them as they go thru Architecture school and assist them in securing employment in industry. These are the pieces of software that the industry is using and are important tools to master.

Students will understand the various types of buildings and their functions that exist in society and the built environment.

In this lecture students will learn about building typologies. It is good to have a general understanding of what types of buildings exist and their various uses.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides an overview of architectural drawing types, which are essential for communicating design ideas and instructions to builders and contractors
Covers sustainability in building design, which is increasingly important due to limited resources and the need for environmentally sensitive approaches
Discusses contemporary issues in architecture, helping students understand how design can shape the built environment and address societal needs
Reviews the Intern Development Program and Architectural Registration Exam, offering insights into the path to becoming a licensed architect
Explores the various career paths available with an architecture education, including professions that may require supplemental training
Offers a high-level overview of industry software and technology, which may require additional courses or classes to master

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Architecture and Design with these activities:
Review 'Form, Space, and Order'
Solidify your understanding of fundamental design principles by studying this classic text.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Form, Space, and Order'.
  • Read the chapters on point, line, plane, and volume.
  • Sketch examples of each concept from existing buildings.
Review Basic Geometry and Drafting Principles
Ensure a solid foundation for understanding architectural drawings by reviewing basic geometry and drafting techniques.
Show steps
  • Review geometric shapes and their properties.
  • Practice drawing basic shapes and forms by hand.
  • Familiarize yourself with drafting tools and techniques.
Create a Sketch Model of a Simple Building
Apply your understanding of design phases and building typologies by creating a physical model.
Show steps
  • Choose a simple building typology (e.g., a house or a small office).
  • Sketch a basic design based on the chosen typology.
  • Gather materials like cardboard, foam board, or paper.
  • Build a simple sketch model of your design.
Four other activities
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Show all seven activities
Follow a Tutorial on Architectural Drawing Software
Gain familiarity with industry-standard software by following a guided tutorial.
Browse courses on Revit
Show steps
  • Choose an architectural drawing software (e.g., Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp).
  • Find a beginner-friendly tutorial online.
  • Follow the tutorial to create a simple architectural drawing.
Review 'The Architecture of Happiness'
Expand your understanding of the human element in architecture by reading this thought-provoking book.
View The School of Life on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Architecture of Happiness'.
  • Read the book, paying attention to the author's arguments about the relationship between architecture and happiness.
  • Reflect on how the concepts discussed in the book might influence your own design approach.
Compile a List of Sustainable Building Materials
Deepen your knowledge of sustainability by researching and compiling a list of eco-friendly building materials.
Browse courses on Sustainable Design
Show steps
  • Research different types of sustainable building materials.
  • Compile a list of materials, including their properties and applications.
  • Organize the list in a clear and accessible format.
Design a Small Sustainable Building
Apply your knowledge of sustainability, building systems, and design phases by designing a small sustainable building.
Browse courses on Sustainable Design
Show steps
  • Choose a site and a building typology (e.g., a small house or a community center).
  • Develop a design concept that incorporates sustainable principles.
  • Create preliminary drawings and sketches of your design.
  • Research and select sustainable building materials for your project.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Architecture and Design will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Architect
An Architect is responsible for designing buildings and other structures, ensuring they are both aesthetically pleasing and functional. This course provides an orientation to architecture and design, helping those who want to become an architect. The course covers topics such as architectural drawing types, design phases, and building systems, all of which are essential to the work of an architect. The course also touches on sustainability, contemporary issues, and working with consultants, which expands the understanding of the architectural profession. In particular, this course covers the core responsibilities of an architect such as creating architectural drawings. This is a core component of the profession.
Draftsperson
A Draftsperson prepares technical drawings and plans for buildings and other structures. This course will be particularly helpful to a draftsperson, as it teaches the various architectural drawing types and how to read them. The course focuses heavily on architectural graphics and vocabulary, which are essential skills for a draftsperson. Because the course overviews sustainability, building systems, and building types, a draftsperson may be able to better understand the context of the drawings they create. This course helps build a foundation that will help one understand the role, as well as how a draftsperson fits into the wider building industry.
CAD Technician
A CAD Technician uses design software to create technical drawings and models for construction projects. Given that this course covers industry software and technology used in architecture, it is well suited for someone wishing to become a CAD technician. A CAD technician relies on architectural drawings, a topic covered in this course, to do their work. The course will provide context for the function of building components and the design process, allowing for a better understanding of how what a CAD technician does fits into the wider process. This course provides a theoretical context that should improve work quality for those in this position. A CAD technician would find this course very helpful.
Building Inspector
A Building Inspector examines construction projects to ensure they comply with building codes and regulations. This course, with its focus on architectural drawings, building systems, and design phases, will be useful to anyone who wishes to become a building inspector. Understanding the various architectural drawing types and how to read them is essential for a building inspector, as it is the basis of their work. The building systems and design phase overviews will also help one to understand the full scope of a project. The course also reviews various building typologies, which allows a building inspector to properly evaluate a building. This course provides the foundation necessary to understand building design and its implications.
Professor of Architecture
A Professor of Architecture teaches courses on architectural design and theory at a college or university level. This course helps potential professors understand the breadth of topics an architecture program might include. It also provides a good overview of the various areas of architecture, as well as design, that a professor might wish to teach. This course will be helpful in understanding the core components of an architecture curriculum, and may assist with curriculum development in the future. While this role usually requires an advanced degree, this course may help someone prepare for such a career. This course provides necessary context for those who wish to become educators in the field.
Urban Planner
An Urban Planner develops plans and programs for land use, transportation, and infrastructure in cities and regions. This course may help those interested in becoming an urban planner to understand how architectural design shapes the social and urban environment. The course provides a holistic understanding of architecture and design, including building typologies and how design can address contemporary issues. The knowledge of sustainability in building design and the design process gained from the course might be useful for urban planning projects that aim to create livable and sustainable communities. The course provides an understanding of how a building interacts with the environment. An urban planner should find this useful.
Construction Manager
A Construction Manager plans, directs, and coordinates construction projects. This course might be helpful for those interested in construction management because it provides an overview of architectural drawings, building systems, and design phases. Understanding what architects do and the various architectural drawing types is essential for coordinating a project and working with architects effectively. The course also touches on consultants involved in projects, which helps a construction manager understand the team and the project. The overview of building systems, such as mechanical and electrical, is useful for managing projects, and ensures the work is done to specification. By providing understanding of the entire life cycle of a project, this course may help improve work on site.
Facilities Manager
A Facilities Manager is responsible for the maintenance, operations and upkeep of buildings and facilities. This course may be beneficial because it provides a broad understanding of architectural drawings, building systems, and design phases. Understanding these aspects of buildings will improve the work they do to maintain a building in good operating order. In particular, the course examines mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Additionally, an understanding of building typologies will help a facilities manager more efficiently organize their maintenance tasks. This course may provide the necessary context for understanding the building and its maintenance requirements. Such a course will help improve their efficiency and effectiveness.
Interior designer
Interior Designers create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces within buildings. This course may be useful to someone interested in interior design, as it introduces the principles of design and architecture. The course covers various aspects of the design process, from initial concepts to implementation, and also provides necessary context in the form of building systems and typologies. The course may help interior designers understand the structure of buildings and how interior spaces relate to the overall design. This course provides a baseline for understanding design as a whole, which is essential for interior designers. It helps them appreciate how interior design affects the overall structure.
Architectural Historian
An Architectural Historian researches and documents the history of buildings and architectural styles. This course may assist an architectural historian by providing context to how architecture is created and understood. Learning about architectural drawing types and design phases, as covered by this course, can give someone a better understanding of how buildings were developed in the past. This course also explores the evolution of the profession and how historical and contemporary issues can shape architecture. This course will help someone interested in the analysis of architecture throughout time. This course provides necessary vocabulary to understand the field, as well as its role in culture.
Project Manager
A Project Manager oversees construction projects from start to finish, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget. This course may be helpful to those interested in project management due to its coverage of the design phases, consultant roles, and building systems, which can provide a comprehensive understanding of the end-to-end building process. The course also explores the various factors that influence design, such as sustainability and contemporary issues. The project manager may be better equipped to manage projects involving architectural design after taking this course. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the entire lifecycle of construction, which the project manager can use.
Building Product Sales Representative
A Building Product Sales Representative sells construction materials and products to architects, contractors, and other industry professionals. This course will help anyone interested in this role develop an understanding of architecture and the design process, and may allow them to better understand the needs of their potential clients. The course also touches on various building systems and how they are utilized, as well as the design process. This knowledge will allow the sales representative to better relate to clients. This course may help with speaking the language of the industry and making better sales. This course provides a basis for understanding how building products fit into the wider industry.
Exhibition Designer
Exhibition Designers create engaging and informative displays for museums and other institutions. This course may be helpful to an exhibition designer because it provides insight into the creative problem solving process, spatial planning, and design principles. The course introduces the graphic vocabulary necessary to function as a creative problem solver. The course also provides an overview of how design shapes social and urban environments. By exposing these design principles, this course may help you expand the scope, function, and appeal of your exhibitions. The course may prepare the exhibition designer to handle multiple situations with greater ease.
Real Estate Developer
A Real Estate Developer is involved in planning, developing, and managing real estate projects. This course may be very useful in understanding the design and building process from the perspective of an architect. The course also provides information about building typologies that would be particularly useful within this role. An understanding of the design phases, sustainability, and contemporary issues will allow a real estate developer to better understand the building process from beginning to end. This understanding may allow a real estate developer to better manage their projects in the future. This course provides a solid foundation for anyone who wishes to be a real estate developer.
Landscape Architect
Landscape Architects plan and design outdoor spaces and environments. This course may prove to be helpful to anyone pursuing a career in landscape architecture as it provides a foundational understanding of design principles and how design shapes the environment. The course's focus on sustainability and addressing contemporary issues is highly relevant to landscape architecture, which emphasizes creating environmentally responsible designs. The course covers building typologies, which may be useful for understanding how buildings interact with the surrounding landscape. By providing a broader understanding of the building industry, this course may help a landscape architect better understand their work. The graphic vocabulary discussed in this course may help with expressing design ideas.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Architecture and Design.
Foundational text for architecture students. It systematically explores the basic vocabulary of architectural design. It covers elements like point, line, plane, volume, and their relationships in creating architectural form and space. This book is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions.
Explores the psychological impact of architecture. It examines how buildings affect our moods and well-being. It encourages a deeper consideration of the emotional and philosophical aspects of design. This book is more valuable as additional reading than it is as a current reference.

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