Innovation in Structure

Please note the course schedule below.In our recent examples of architecture, visions of architects are enhanced by innovative approaches in structures by leading engineers and so called \”archineers\” combining both architecture and engineering in their profession. They engage in early stages of design process and significant dialogue takes place between architects and engineers. The understanding of structures is evolving from static to dynamic; introduction of new and improved materials takes place hand in hand with evaluation and consultation with structural engineers. They observe forces that may not be visible from the surface and they analyze the performative characteristics of buildings. With the fast developments currently occurring in structural design techniques, in technology and in ecotechnology, one of the most fascinating and interesting frontiers in architecture takes place during collaborations with open-minded engineers.Furthermore, the rapidly increasing environmental changes demands for a rigorous implementation of ecotechnology in buildings to reduce the human impact on nature. Once more this demands for an early cooperation of all disciplines and a common understanding of design, ecotech and engineering issues.This course opens up a dialog up with this crucially important set of design engineers. Each year a number of well-known, or in some cases still emerging, set of engineers are invited to give a series of lectures on not only their work (often with well-known architects), but also on their own design ideas. This year the course will focus on breathable, transparent, lightweight skins and structures.The course will be structured in three modules, each lasting four weeks:During the first module, students will analyze precedents to familiarize themselves with the theories, possibilities and practical issues of glass design and construction, transparent large span structures, openings and connection means and methods through real projects, assigned readings and lectures. Furthermore evolving new fa??ade systems reaching from breathable skins to vacuum-stabilized multi-layer facades will be presented and discussed in the first module. In the second module, students will present their critical evaluation of their findings and analyses and will start formulating their own design strategies for the above subjects. In the third and last module, students will implement their findings in a small project. In all sessions students will work in small teams. Final projects will be presented in front of a jury during the final reviews.PLEASE NOTE THE COURSE SCHEDULE:Monday, 9/15: NO CLASSMonday, 9/22: CLASS WILL MEET IN NEW YORK FROM 11AM – 6:00PM /SEE TRIP SCHEDULE AT WEBSITE Monday, 9/29: GSD ROOM 505, 3:30PM – 6:30PM Monday, 10/06: GSD ROOM 505, 3:30PM – 6:30PM Monday, 10/13: GSD ROOM 505, 3:30PM – 6:30PM Monday, 10/20: GSD ROOM 505, 3:30PM – 6:30PM Monday, 10/27: GSD ROOM 505, 3:30PM – 6:30PM Monday, 11/03: GSD ROOM 505, 3:30PM – 6:30PM Monday, 11/10: GSD SECOND FLOOR LOUNGE, 12:30PM – 6:30PM Monday, 11/17: NO CLASS Monday, 11/24: GSD ROOM 505, 3:30PM – 6:30PM Monday, 12/01: GSD ROOM 505, 3:30PM – 6:30PM Monday, 12/08: GSD ROOM 505, 3:30PM – 6:30PM Monday, 12/15: GSD ROOM 505, 3:30PM – 6:30PM