Course Details

1. Identify contemporary issues and research topics in Architecture
2. Recognize contemporary architectural projects and their architects.
3. Develop the ability to discuss abstract and / or philosophical ideas
4. Develop critical thinking
5. Construct personal viewpoints and ideology regarding contemporary questions and issues in architectural theory and practice.
6. Express a personal ideology and standpoint in regards to architecture.
7. Show argumentative skills in speaking and writing

‘The meaning of Criticism’ : explanation of the various theoretical approaches regarding criticism of architectural

‘A critical survey of architectural theories since 1960’: a historical review of the architectural theories and examples since the reaction to modernism to today’s theories and trends in architecture.

Presentation and critical analysis of the work of contemporary architects:  a study of the theories of certain architects and the way these apply to their projects. The lectures present 6 -10 architects and they demand students participation in discussion.

Visits to exhibitions and presentations of local architectural competitions:  Students are asked to take position in current local architectural concerns.

Presentation of the work of local architects: 1-2 local architects are invited to present their work and discuss with the students

‘Architecture in the 21^st c.’ : discussion and concerns on the current and future stage in architecture

‘ The role of the contemporary architect’: questions and concerns that will help the students build their own ideology and prepare for their final year thesis

• Architecture / Theory since 1968, ed. Michael Hays(2000), The MIT Press
• Contemporary Theory and Criticism of Architecture, 1960 - Present, Mary McLeod
• Theories and Manifestoes of Contemporary Architecture, ed. C.Jencks And K.Kropf , (2006), Wiley Academy
• Architecture between Spectacle and Use, ed. Anthony Vidler (2005), Clark Studies
• 100 Contemporary Architects, Jodido Philip,(2008), Taschen
• Contemporary European Architects, Jodido Philip,(1996), Taschen
• Contemporary Japanese Architects, Jodido Philip,(1997), Taschen

The taught part of the course is delivered to students by means of lectures, conducted by electronic presentations. Lecture notes and pictures are given to students in electronic form.