Theories of Buildings and Cities
Overview
This unit covers the theoretical and critical analysis of architecture, cities, urban spaces and design practices. It explores existing and new methodologies and critical theories as applied to architecture and cities. This unit locates architecture and urban spaces within social, cultural, political, material, technological and creative practices. Students will explore recent developments in architecture and urban design academic theory and professional practice aiming to develop and evaluate a theoretical position and develop skills to put forward arguments for this position. The unit will also foster an understanding of the principles of designing with Indigenous peoples and cultures on an international level with reference to charters, approaches and precedents in conjunction with sustainable development and ecological systems.
Requisites
02-November-2025
Learning outcomes
Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:
- Develop, evaluate and present arguments relating key architecture and urban design theories
- Identify challenges and opportunities posed by operating in diverse and globally oriented settings
- Recognise the position and relationship of the first peoples of Australia to design practice in historical and contemporary contexts; and evaluate international standards of best practice working with Indigenous communities
- Communicate appropriately in written, oral, and graphic form to various audiences about design issues, development proposals and actions
- Work as a team member, with a commitment to shared goals, team processes and appropriate interpersonal skills
Teaching methods
Hawthorn
| Type | Hours per week | Number of weeks | Total (number of hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Face to Face Contact (Phasing out) Studio | 3.00 | 12 weeks | 36 |
| Specified Learning Activities (Phasing out) Readings | 4.50 | 10 weeks | 45 |
| Specified Learning Activities (Phasing out) Various | 6.71 | 7 weeks | 47 |
| Unspecified Learning Activities (Phasing out) Independent Learning | 1.83 | 12 weeks | 22 |
| TOTAL | 150 |
Assessment
| Type | Task | Weighting | ULO's |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class Exercises | Individual | 35% | 1,2,4 |
| Presentation | Group | 20% | 1,3,4,5 |
| Research Project | Group | 45% | 1,3,4,5 |
Content
- Exploration of architecture and urban design theory and issues
- Exploration of Indigenous design principles including Caring for Country with respect to sustainability and design with nature
- Exploration of techniques for analysing and synthesising literature
- Presentation of theoretical concepts through illustration and verbally
Study resources
Reading materials
A list of reading materials and/or required textbooks will be available in the Unit Outline on Canvas.