Detailing Architecture

This course examines the role of the architectural detail in the formation/thematic development of a work of architecture and how the detail reinforces the theoretical position of the architect. Architectural detailing is often considered only a technical task, but, in fact, the detail holds the key to inspire, integrate, and reinforce the architectural idea as well as the architect’s intellectual/societal position. Many scholars, historians and academics have avoided the detail as a snapshot into the design methodology of architecture. This class is an attempt to do the opposite. The course consists of a series of weekly lectures, short readings and graphic representations to reveal how the role of detail has played an essential role in the history, evolution and development of the built environment. Lectures attempt to reconstruct and question the history of architecture through an understanding of the detail. The course emphasizes the making of architecture through an understanding of the detail as a complete assembly and how it may help to inform the whole. Though there is an emphasis on the tectonic aspects of architecture, links to other aspects (social, economic, political, material) and causal factors are critical to a more complete understanding of the total work and are not necessarily elaborated in this course. Drawing, analytical and technical "building methods" skills are required. The course size is limited to 12 students.