86230 Historical Models of Space

This subject gives an introductory overview of the history of spatial constructions in European and allied cultures. The material covered provides an historical context for the more focused studies of Western design offered in other electives. More importantly, the subject provides the student with a vocabulary for design, and a familiarity with past designs that employ that vocabulary. Over the course of the semester, major historical periods are examined in sequence. This 'grand historical narrative' provides a context for further discussion of the design themes and strategies that have traditionally informed Western space, such as the generation of order and pattern, of light and heavy spaces, of textured surfaces and rhythmic spatial sequences. The emphasis of the course is upon the interpretive richness of design history, and upon its potential for informing contemporary design understanding.

Typical availability

Autumn semester, City campus