Foundations of Architectural Design

This unit introduces core architectural concepts—form and function, elements of design, scale/proportion, structural systems, building programs, and key historical styles from prehistoric to Early Christian architecture. Students will analyze examples, learn how buildings carry loads, and begin developing simple programs and schematic responses that prepare them for more advanced design and technical work in subsequent units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze how principles of form, function, scale, proportion, mass, and the elements of design influence perceived architectural quality by critiquing multiple built examples from the unit’s historical case studies.
• Evaluate the evolution of architectural styles and building types from prehistoric structures through Early Christian churches, identifying technological, cultural, and programmatic drivers that inform contemporary design decisions.
• Apply basic structural concepts—including loads, stresses, trabeated and arcuated systems—to create an annotated diagram or simple physical/digital model that demonstrates load paths and structural behavior for a small building typology.
• Demonstrate the ability to develop a concise building program and schematic layout that aligns user needs, scale, and context, and summarize the roles, education, and career pathways of architectural professionals involved in project delivery.