Course - Timber Structures - AAR4886
Timber Structures
New from the academic year 2026/2027
About
About the course
Course content
The subject is design and detailing of timber structures. It includes timber structures in small houses, but the focus is on larger constructions where, due to spans or loads, more complex systems than simple beams and columns are required
The course is recommended to be taken together with a project-course that includes architectural design with timber structures, either as reuse of existing buildings and structures or as new construction.
Subtopics:
- Wood as a building material, structural properties in particular..
- Structural elements of wood (solid wood / glulam / CLT/....).
- Form and load-bearing. Static systems.(timber structures as trusses, arches, frames, shells).
- Detailing/joints ("the tectonics of timber structures").
- Hybrid structures / composite structures.
- Historical constructions, including static behavior, craftsmanship, and detailing.
Learning outcome
The student has developed interest in and knowledge of timber structures providing a basis for working with larger and complex timber structures as integrated elements in architectural design. This includes understanding of existing timber structures and being able to utilize them as they are in existing buildings or through reuse in new contexts.
Learning methods and activities
Lectures and exercises, including the use of both physical and digital models.
The course may also include full-scale (1:1) construction.
Exercises are primarily individual, but model- and construction-related tasks may be group assignments.
Exercises may be linked to a concurrent architectural design course ("project course")
Compulsory assignments
- Obligatory exercise/assessment
Further on evaluation
Obligatory exercise/assessment should be approved in order to take the exam. The requirements regarding the number of obligatory exercises/assignments that must be approved in order to take the exam will be communicated at the beginning of the semester.
Assessment is carried out as a portfolio. The requirements for the contents of the portfolio will be specified in the current assignment description. The portfolio must be submitted by the stated deadline.
A postponed exam is normally scheduled for the next examination period.
In the case of valid absence or a failed submitted portfolio, the student is eligible to register for the postponed exam. Students who failed the ordinary assessment must submit a revised and/or further developed portfolio based on the examiner’s feedback. The term "failed" replaces the grade "F" in this context.
When retaking the course to improve a previously passed result, a new assessment basis must be submitted.
Specific conditions
Admission to a programme of study is required:
Architecture (MAAR)
Architecture (MAAR2)
Recommended previous knowledge
Understanding and interest in structures as taught in the course AAR4405 is an advantage.
Required previous knowledge
Passed AAR4405 Structures, or an equivalent course.
Completed three years basic courses in architecture, bachelor's degree in architecture, or equivalent.
Students in MAAR program: The student must have met the progression requirements outlined in the study plan description for the integrated five-year Master’s program in Architecture and has successfully completed all compulsory design studio courses during the first three years of architectural studies at NTNU or an equivalent accredited institution.
Credit reductions
| Course code | Reduction | From |
|---|---|---|
| AAR4885 | 5 sp | Autumn 2026 |
Subject areas
- Architecture