Course content

Through a series of theoretical lectures, tutorials and exercises, the course introduces students to a range of geometrical skills important in architectural design such as proportional theories, spatial composition, the use of projective geometry to solve relations between curved ceiling surfaces, geometrical solutions of roofs and staircases and similar. Special attention is paid to the use of geometry in visual communication, traditional methods of architectural representation, the development of skills such as skiagraphy, perspective, and the relevant general drawing conventions.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

The candidate

• will acquire advanced knowledge in the use of geometry in architectural design with specialised insights in architecture-related visual communication
• will have thorough knowledge of the scientific and artistic theories and methods pertaining to the use of geometry in architecture
• will be able to apply geometrical knowledge to new projects in architectural design and visual communication pertaining to architecture
• will be able to analyse architectural and visual communication problems problems on the basis of the history, traditions, distinctive character and place in society

Skills

The candidate:

• will be able to analyse and deal critically with various sources of information and use them to structure and formulate arguments about the use of geometry his or her design
• will be able to analyse the geometrical aspects of existing theories, methods and interpretations in architectural theory work independently on practical and theoretical problems
• will be able to use relevant methods for research and scholarly and architectural design development work in an independent manner
• will be able to carry out an independent, limited research or design project under supervision and in accordance with applicable norms for research ethics

General competence

The candidate:

• will be able to analyse relevant architectural, professional and research ethical problems pertaining to the use of geometry in architecture
• will be able to apply his or her knowledge and skills pertaining to the use of geometry in architecture in new areas in order to carry out advanced assignments and projects
• will be able to communicate extensive independent work and master language and terminology of pertaining to the application of geometry to architecture
• will be able to communicate about academic issues, analyses and conclusions pertaining to the relationship between , both with specialists and the general public
• will be able to contribute to new thinking and innovation processes in the application of geometrical procedures to architecture

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, tutorials and exercises.

In this subject, a temporary exemption from the requirement of Norwegian as the language of instruction has been made due to the lack of access to Norwegian-speaking instructors.

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

General knowledge of architectural history.

Required previous knowledge

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.

Course materials

Relevant handouts will be provided to students. A general textbook is Helmut Pottmann: Architectural Geometry.