The aim of this course is for students to understand and internalize the framework of the global facade industry through a series of case studies, equipping them to adopt a methodology of iterative, integrated design and implementation. The case studies draw on built and ongoing work by Front that the instructor has direct knowledge, engagement, and oversight. Each is comprehensive, offering insight into the aspirations and needs of clients; team building and formation; the collaborative design process among architect, client, consultants, contractors, and fabricators across all stages of work; and the realities of procurement, shop drawings, testing, fabrication, assembly, installation, and commissioning. Projects include the Perelman Performing Arts Center by REX, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center by Renzo Piano, and the new MIT SA+P Metropolitan Warehouse conversion by Diller Scofidio + Renfro.

Case study sessions will be delivered as illustrated and detailed narratives of a single project, or as sets of related project vignettes, highlighting dominant themes such as aesthetic effects, materials and systems, environmental and structural performance, and procurement and constructability. The format is informal, and students are encouraged to engage actively with questions and observations.

Throughout the course, students will work on two projects. The first is an independent case study of a contemporary building of the student’s choosing, serving as a research platform to deepen their knowledge in an area of interest. The study will be thorough, covering the project’s history and its design and construction process, with extensive drawing and photographic documentation. The student will also select a study area and construct a 3D model with associated drawings and renderings to demonstrate their understanding of the building’s tectonics. The second project is a team effort: a case study of a project for which a 1:5 scale physical assembly model will be built. The case studies and models will be presented together in the final session.

This course draws on the intensive process of imagining, designing and building unique, real-world projects. Although every project differs, the iterative, first-principles methodology behind each will become clear over the term, giving students greater agency and confidence to solve challenging, multidisciplinary architectural problems.

Evaluation: 20% Attendance, 40% Individual Research Case Study, 40% Group Assembly Model Case Study.

Finally, we will set aside time for a walking tour of selected projects in the Cambridge/Boston area.

Note regarding the Fall 2026 GSD academic calendar: The first day of classes, Wednesday, September 2nd, is held as a MONDAY schedule at the GSD. This course will meet for the first time on Wednesday, September 9th.