An enhanced confidence in the application of systematic problem solving in architecture is the courses primary aim. This is achieved by introducing the possibilities of existing methods and by training the recognition of appropriate problem statements. The summer 2010 course will focus on the theory and application of grammars in architecture.

Shape grammars, a powerful formal system for the description and generation of designs will be presented in detail. Shape grammars have been developed to generate a variety of architectural languages including Palladian Villas, Frank Lloyd Wright Prairie Houses, Queen Ann houses, Christopher Wren churches, Giuseppe Terragni apartments, Alvaro Siza housing schemes, and many others. And still other grammars have been developed to generate designs from scratch. This class will discuss the foundations of shape grammar formalism and it will provide a generous overview of the history and logic of several of its applications in design research. The course is structured around a shape grammar workshop Prof. Economou (Georgia Institute of Technology, USA) will hold daily from the 17th to the 20th of May. Leading up to this event a number of classes introducing the students to the theory of grammars are given (Tuesdays 3pm to 6pm). Each student is expected to work on an individual project due at the end of the semester.

The introduction is on the 16th of March at 3.30pm in HS 15.

Please see TUWEL for literatur.