Description
This Modern and Contemporary Architecture courses program traces the history of modern and contemporary architecture from the early 20th century until today. We explore the transformation of architecture and cities under the influence of two major forces: the process of modernization and the development of ideology.
We discuss the theories, buildings, landscapes and projects, which have significantly impacted architectural culture. Architectural history is a humanistic and critical discipline based on visual observation, liberal research, and written analysis. As such, it complements the practical and conceptual projects of the design practice by surveying and analyzing historical precedents for design, investigating their meaning, and evaluating their usefulness as formal or programmatic models.
Throughout history, architecture has vividly reflected the cultures in which it evolved and the social, economic, and geophysical conditions that shaped it. This relationship continues today; indeed, many issues with which architects are currently concerned can be considered outgrowths of previous historical developments. Understanding the architecture of the past gives students a focused historical lens through which to consider contemporary architectural problems.