URBAN LAB 1 - Urban Design Theory, Research, Practice

In the Urban Lab we explore the complex manner in which various urban themes are embedded in the everyday practice of architecture, urban design and planning. Pressing questions of urban design practice, research and theory are examined both from a historic and contemporary perspective. The project course focuses on the exploration of contemporary urban design themes such as the sustainable transformation of our cities, post-industrial sites and urban landscapes. The specific theme will be defined by the topic and site chosen for the integrated Urban Design and Architecture Studio AAR4515. The overall goal of our investigations is to contribute maintaining and making our cities liveable, beautiful and open for the future.

Knowledge: The students will gain a profound understanding on urban design theory and practice. They will learn to critically reflect their characteristics as an expression of contemporary trends and in a historical perspective.

Skills: The students will gain experience to research and summarize relevant materials on urbanism. By deepening their professional knowledge and extending it to the urban realm, creative potential in urban design and architecture projects is fostered.

Competence: The students will learn to critically evaluate complex urban challenges within urban design and architecture, and improve their ability to communicate professional knowledge.

Taught together with AAR4515, the course is structured in two parallel phases. In the first phase, we will conduct case studies on exemplary master plans, urban design projects and building typologies. In the second phase, each student will read a major book on urbanism, critically reflect its impact on architecture and the city, and writes a short essay of the main findings. The lecture series, literature and case studies will provide a broad perspective on urbanism, and inform our discussions and work in the lab.