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Unit of study_
BDES3011: Architectural History/Theory 3
2025 unit information
The objective of the Architectural Theory unit is to equip students with a critical understanding of key Western architectural theories and philosophy from the Enlightenment to the present. Emphasis is placed on the specific historical situations and cultural and philosophical contexts in which those theories arose, and ultimately how they were represented within the domain of architectural embodiment. It is organized to clearly identify particular trains of thought. Students will become generally conversant in the principles of central theories, and will understand their terms and references. Through readings, lectures, and tutorial sessions, students will acquire the literacy required to perceive and articulate contemporary theoretical standpoints, and will refine their research and writing skills through independent research into a particular aspect of recent architectural theory and philosophy related to their concurrent studio design project. Close attention will be paid to the exchange between practice and theory and the relevance of the discussed theories to the formation of current circumstances, and to the place of architecture within contemporary culture as a whole.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Sydney School of Architecture, Design and Planning
| Study level | Undergraduate |
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| Academic unit | Architecture |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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BDES2027 or BDES2021 or DESA2111 or BDES2616 |
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Corequisites:
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None |
| Prohibitions:
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DAAP3001 or BDES3611 |
| Assumed knowledge:
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None |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. inform action thorough knowledge of architectural history and architectural theory with particular emphasis on the specific cultural and philosophical contexts in which ideas have gained traction in architecture, and how they have been represented there.
- LO2. develop and apply a literacy with architectural debates and works that allows for the articulation of contemporary positions and demonstrate the ability to refine skills in research, analysis, writing, and synthesis through independent work.
- LO3. think abstractly, conceptually and critically about architecture and through different ideas about and within architecture at a range of scales, and demonstrate the principles of theories central to the last few decades' development with an understanding of relevant terms and references.
- LO4. consider, challenge, elucidate and communicate complex ideas in a clear and concise manner, using scholarly argument, consistent referencing and the requisite technical and representational skills.
Unit availability
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