After successful completion of the course, students are able to analyze architectural design principles in different cultures, regions and eras and to examine the possibilities of their development in future architectural planning.

Comparative analysis of building types and forms in traditional architecture across different cultures in order to identify fundamental principles that characterize the function and status of the buildings in question in a generally understandable way. Examples of thematic content include the representation of prestige (design features expressing the high or low status of a building type), or the characteristics of public and private spaces (location, design, lighting, etc.). Other topics include orientation in the spatial environment and the influence of social and climatic conditions. 

The comparative analyses are not limited to specific regions and epochs; rather, corresponding principles in the building cultures of Europe, Asia, America, Africa and Oceania are compared thematically and examined for similarities and differences, taking into account specific climatic conditions, the respective socio-cultural environment and the corresponding technological possibilities. 

In future, the course Architectural History 3: Comparative Architectural History will be held in yearly alternation with the course Architectural History 3: Elementary Building Forms of Non-European Cultures (LV 251.700). 

The exam is held in written form. There are 4 question topics, 3 of which must be selected and answered.  

Exam dates are offered in December, January and early February, with additional dates in March if there is demand.

The lecture foils, which can be downloaded at the end of each topic, contain keyword-based texts for further in-depth study.