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Architecture Courses

ARC240 Sketching

[1–2, 2 cr.]

This general course on sketching stresses freehand drawing techniques with pencil and charcoal as well as the basics of watercolor rendering.

ARC241 Technical Graphics

[1–2, 2 cr.]

This course is an introduction to the basics of formal representation with two-dimensional representation of objects through orthographic projections and auxiliary drawings, isometric and axonometric drawings, and the basics of shade and shadows. This studio also introduces students to the various tools and techniques of technical drawing in pencil and ink.

ARC311 Building Systems I

[3–0, 3 cr.]

This course is an introductory course to the basic laws of equilibrium, covering forces on particles, bodies and structures or assemblage of elements, simple algebraic applications of the equations of equilibrium in 1-D and 2-D with free body diagram analysis. The course includes experimental investigation of the stability of structures such as solid object, beams, frames, trusses, and simple buildings, and the different ways to support gravity and other loads by vertical transfer and later transfer of forces. The course also includes an introduction to the concept of compressive and tensile uni-axial stresses in structural members and to internal forces in beams, shear and moment diagram concepts, with empirical investigation of beam bending.

Prerequisites: MTH102 Calculus II and PHY111 Mechanics

ARC312 Building Systems II

[3–0, 3 cr.]

This course is an introduction of the basic concepts of internal stresses and strains inside structural members and solid bodies, and the limit states for strength and deformation. Experimental investigation of the different types of stresses and the resulting deformations are covered. This course also makes use of computer software to model internal and external behavior of structural elements and assemblages of structural elements. The course serves to develop a physical understanding of the interrelationship of material properties, structural dimensions, and structural behavior and safety through the numerical simulation of the behavior of typical designs using simple computer packages.

Prerequisite: ARC311 Building Systems I

ARC331 Design Studio III

[3–6, 6 cr.]

This course builds upon and extends the theoretical knowledge gained in the foundation studio through a concrete application of conceptual and perceptual analysis to problems of small and medium scale in design, and the exploration of the limits and means of developing concepts into architectural form. The studio emphasizes the development of representational tools in translating ideas into architectural drawings and models, specifically stressing on the importance of drawing as a design tool.

Prerequisite: FND236A Design Studio II - Visual Dynamics, FND236B Design Studio II - Formal Tectonics, or FND236C Design Studio II - Anatomy and Space

ARC332 Design Studio IV

[3–6, 6 cr.]

This studio further elaborates the process of theoretical investigation of space with emphasis on the communication of ideas through different representational models and tools. The course covers the study of small to medium scale projects, with emphasis on the basic principles of spatial design. References and case studies of canonical works in modern design may serve as a theoretical background in the continuing development of a theoretical foundation. In addition to the models, the elaboration of a complete set of architectural drawings for the final design, encompassing plans, sections, and elevations in addition to the models is also be expected at this stage.

Prerequisites: ARC331 Design Studio III and ARC341 Technical Graphics II

ARC341 Technical Graphics II

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This course covers the specific application of technical drawings to architectural plans, sections and elevations, with two-dimensional and three-dimensional representations, axonometric, perspective, shades and shadows, applied to two-dimensional, three-dimensional and perspective drawings.

Prerequisite: ARC241 Technical Graphics

ARC342 Technical Graphics III

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This course covers the translation of the technical drawings of canonical projects into three-dimensional architectural models with different materials and techniques, and the development of the full set of corresponding architectural drawings (plans, sections, and elevations) at appropriate scales.

Prerequisite: ARC341 Technical Graphics II

ARC351 Computer Graphics I

[1–2, 2 cr.]

This course specifically addresses architectural applications in computer graphics for drafting of architectural plans, sections, elevations and details.

Prerequisite: FND251 Digital Media

ARC352 Computer Graphics II

[1–2, 2 cr.]

This course expands on the skills learned to cover new applications for surface and solid modeling as well as rendering material library, applications of light, leading to the development of complete project renderings.

Prerequisite: ARC351 Computer Graphics I

ARC361 Theory I

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course introduces the major aesthetic theories in the field of design with an investigation of the relations between these theories and physical space in its aesthetic, social and cultural significance, examining the ideological frameworks behind paradigmatic changes and movements in aesthetics and their effects on the field of design.

ARC363 Theory II

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course is an in depth examination of the ideologies behind modern and post-modern culture and the influence of contemporary theories on the architectural and design cultures, with a thematic approach that deals with the specific aspects of contemporary practice.

Prerequisite: ARC361 Theory I

ARC371 History of Architecture I

[3–0, 3 cr.]

This course will trace the development of Western architecture from the Greek and Roman periods to the Byzantine, Gothic, Italian Renaissance, Late Renaissance and Baroque periods. Important icons and landmarks in art and architecture as well as the principles, technical developments and ideologies underlying these various movements will be analyzed. The course also studies the importance of cultural ideas and ideals and their relationships to the development of aesthetic forms, and more broadly, of civilization.

ARC372 History of Architecture II

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course traces the developments in architecture from Neo-Classicism in the 18th and 19th centuries to the full development of modern architecture in the 20th century, by examining the seminal projects and buildings that characterized these developments and their subsequent transformations in Post-Modernism, deconstructionism, and later trends.

Prerequisite: ARC371 History of Architecture I

ARC373 History of Landscape Design

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course is an overview of the historical developments of landscape design with a survey of the ideas, principles and practical considerations behind the major landscape design cases under study, from the classical to the modern period.

ARC375 Introduction to Islamic Art (650 -1650)

[3–0, 3 cr.]

This course is an introduction to the arts of the Muslim world from the rise of Islam until the advent of the early modern period. This course comprises a selective survey of artifacts drawn from a variety of media that represent the pinnacles of artistic accomplishment across the vast expanse of the Islamic world. Paintings, textiles, coins, ceramics, metal work, jewelry, and woodcarving will be investigated in the context of cultural history and examined in terms of their evolving forms, multiple meanings, and the development of a distinctively Islamic aesthetic. Particular emphasis will be placed on the spiritual content of Islamic art, the role of the artist in Islamic society, and the effect of religious pronouncements on the production of art.

ARC375H Introduction to Islamic Art (650 -1650)

[3–0, 3 cr.]

ARC376 Introduction to Islamic Architecture (650 - 1650)

[3–0, 3 cr.]

This course is a survey of the architectural heritage of the Islamic world from the early caliphate to the era of the Muslim superpowers of the pre-modern times. It traces the most significant and influential edifices of the Muslim world from Spain in the west to India in the east. Monuments are studied and analyzed in their political, religious, socio- economic, cultural, and aesthetic contexts. The course also examines the evolution of such varied building types as mosques, madrasas, mausoleums, caravanserays, and palaces. Selected structures is studied through a range of methodologies and the development of Islamic architecture is analyzed from the standpoint of the manipulation of space, materials, and building technology.

ARC381 Architectural Photography

[1–2, 2 cr.]

Advanced photography course emphasizing specific photographic techniques, lighting and composition, dealing with architectural and design subjects.

Prerequisite: PHO211 Photography I

ARC404 Landscape Design Workshop

[1–2, 2 cr.]

This course is an elaboration of an actual landscape design project or competition, either within the format of a regular term project or as a series of intensive workshops.

ARC405 Design Workshop-IAAD

[0–2, 1 cr.]

This workshop will revolve around an intensive thematic investigation, consisting of a seminar combined with design application, addressing a design problem of current importance, such as a competition for a mosque or madrassah, or the restoration of a historic structure in the Islamic world.

Prerequisite: ARC332 Design Studio IV.

ARC411 Building Systems III

[3–0, 3 cr.]

This course is an introduction to the different soil-structural systems, and the multiplicity of ways that they impact architectural design, in addition to the analysis of the properties of different structural systems. Discussion of the interaction between building envelopes and structural systems and the introduction of the current and applicable engineering structural models is covered.

Prerequisite: ARC312 Building Systems II

ARC412 Building Systems IV

[3–0, 3 cr.]

This course covers a selection of specific applications for the design of structural systems in conjunction with architectural design projects, or as applicable to a real life situation. Comparisons between computer / empirical simulation for design and code compliance, as well as the selection of one structural system (Concrete/ACI, Steel/AISC, or other) for detailed design, are covered.

Prerequisite: ARC312 Building Systems II

ARC421 Building Technology I

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course is an overview of the major components of a building’s foundation—walls, openings, roof, floors—and their interrelationships through construction. The course includes analysis of different construction elements, structure, bearing walls, envelope, components with their variation in materials, in addition to the study of the different techniques used for the insulation of buildings.

ARC422 Building Technology II

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course is an analysis of the traditional construction systems, such as concrete, brick and wood construction and their various properties. The course focuses on the specific characteristic of each system and its compatibility with other materials, its physical treatment as well as the different possibilities of its finishing, weathering and maintenance.

ARC431 Design Studio V

[3–6, 6 cr.]

This studio deals with projects that examine problems of different structures and materials and focuses on building technology, the building program, environmental and site factors as essential parameters in the development and resolution of a design project. The studio is given at the same time as the Building Technology courses in order to reinforce the relationship of conceptual design to materials and construction techniques, and as a means to give concrete form to design projects.

Prerequisite: ARC332 Design Studio IV and Co-requisite: ARC421 Building Technology I

ARC432 Design Studio VI

[3–6, 6 cr.]

This studio involves the development of projects of greater complexity in terms of functional and programmatic constraints with specific attention to the structural dimension in design according to the different technologies and building systems projected. This studio addresses technical and construction details and explores architectural detail as an essential element in the design process.

Prerequisite: ARC431 Design Studio V and Co-requisite: ARC422 Building Technology II

ARC435 Design Studio - IAAD

[2–4, 4 cr.]

This studio investigates projects pertaining to contemporary design issues in the Islamic world, for example the design of religious centers, housing, schools, cultural compounds and libraries, with specific focus on the issues of context, cultural setting and climate. The design will be studied in terms of functional and programmatic constraints and in relationship to cultural considerations. Students will be encouraged to develop their ideas by critically assessing the applicability of traditional Islamic design paradigms to contemporary design problems. The studio will be further enriched through discussions and critique of contemporary design in the Islamic world.

Prerequisite: ARC332 Design Studio IV.

ARC451 Digital Modeling

[2–2, 3 cr.]

An introduction to 3D digital modeling through generation, manipulation and total control of complex geometrical and free form objects as related to design issues and applications, enabling students to explore new tools for design.

Prerequisite: ARC352 Computer Graphics II

ARC452 Computer Animation

[2–2, 3 cr.]

An advanced visualization of space to user-defined lighting and materials, in order to generate realistic 3D-rendered walk-through, parts in motion, and animation techniques.

Prerequisite: ARC352 Computer Graphics II

ARC454 Dynamic 3D Modeling

[2–2, 3 cr.]

An introduction to building information modeling with the understanding of real-time modeling including spatial relationships and properties of building components.

Prerequisite: ARC352 Computer Graphics II

ARC461 Topics in Architecture Theory

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course addresses architectural theories with a focus on the specific themes of contemporary relevance and importance. The course is run as an advanced theory seminar.

Prerequisite: ARC363 Theory II

ARC462 Seminar in Architecture Theory

[3–0, 3 cr.]

This seminar will address theoretical topics of relevance to contemporary architectural developments. The course will consist of a series of thematic lectures, followed by student presentations on related topics, complemented by critical debates. The course will explore the inter-relation between ideas and the development of built forms in different contexts and cultures, and will serve as a platform for individual research.

Prerequisite: ARC363 Theory II.

ARC462H Seminar in Architecture Theory

[3–0, 3 cr.]

Prerequisite: ARC363 Theory II.

ARC470 History of 20th Century Architecture in the Middle East

[3–0, 3 cr.]

This course traces architectural developments in the Middle East from the end of the 19th century to the present. The survey will cover the colonial period and the process of westernization in Middle Eastern countries, as well as the formation of national schools of architecture and the ensuing spread of Modernism. The problematic relationship between modernity and local traditions will be examined, in addition to the particular ‘postmodern’ reactions that followed. The impact of Modernism on urban development and the expansion of major cities such as Beirut, Cairo, Baghdad, Tehran, and Istanbul is also discussed.

Prerequisite: ARC372 History of Architecture II

ARC471 Contemporary Trends

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course is a study of important design projects with analysis of their aesthetic concepts and structural innovations, focusing on particular themes and/or movements in contemporary design.

ARC475 Islamic Architecture in the Age of Empires

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course surveys the development of Islamic architecture under the most powerful Islamic empires of the early modern period, namely the Ottomans of Turkey, the Mughals of India, and the Sfavids of Iran. It reviews and analyzes a number of paradigmatic architectural examples from these illustrious Islamic dynasties, as a way of elucidating how each royal house possessed its unique vision of the world, a vision which ultimately led to the formulation of unique regional styles in architecture. Sacred, commemorative and secular monuments will be closely examined, so as to illustrate how royal Muslim patronage evolved, how it produced structures of unprecedented scale and complexity and how Islam and modernity began evolved.

Prerequisite: ARC376 Introduction to Islamic Architecture.

ARC476 Art and Architecture of the Mamluks

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course offers a close examination of the visual art of the Mamluks from the 13th Century until the beginning of the 16th Century. It will examine the distinctive design vocabulary of the Mamluks and trace its stylistic development across time and space. Cities, landmarks and artifacts will be studied in their cultural, political, socio-economic and aesthetic contexts and evaluated in terms of courtly aspirations and the sources of design inspiration. The course will also employ a range of methodologies and variety of themes including patronage, power, courtly taste and the role of Waqf.

Prerequisite: ARC376 Introduction to Islamic Architecture.

ARC477 Art and Architecture of the Umayyads

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course offers an in-depth investigation of the material heritage of the Umayyad dynasty in Syria in the 17th and 18th centuries. Monuments and artefacts will be examined in terms of their purpose and meaning, and will be interpreted in the context of cultural history. Particular attention will be afforded to the issue of the formation of Islamic art and the discernment of what can be regarded as “Islamic” in the visual art forms of Islam. This will involve exploring cross-cultural dialogues in the Levant in the 1st Century of Islam, and the attempt to blend the elements from West and East in the framework of the new faith.

Prerequisite: ARC376 Introduction to Islamic Architecture.

ARC478 The Decorative Arts of Islam (650–1650)

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course is a survey of the salient examples of decorative arts of Medieval Islam. Arts of the Book, calligraphy, metalwork, ceramics, textiles, ivory and woodcarving will be explored within their religious, political and socio-economic context, as well as in terms of meaning, function, aesthetics and emerging forms. Particular emphasis will be given to the regional design vocabulary and to the evolution of style, content and iconography. The course will also investigate the pivotal role of geometry, vegetable ornaments and epigraphy in Islamic design and the supremacy of color and pattern.

Prerequisite: ARC375 Introduction to Islamic Art.

ARC481 Construction Documents

[1–6, 4 cr.]

This course entails preparation of a full set of architectural working drawings for the execution of a mid-size building or project. The course also covers the basics of preparing a specifications document.

Prerequisites: ARC432 Design Studio VI

ARC482 Regional Architecture I

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course is an analytical and historical survey of regional architectural heritage with a specific focus on the traditional domestic architecture of Lebanon and the analysis of setting and building techniques as well as other factors of the development of regional architecture in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Prerequisite: ARC332 Design Studio IV

ARC483 Regional Architecture II

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This course covers an on-site application of the study of regional architectural heritage with case studies, analysis and documentation of particular landmarks, religious structures, and domestic houses.

Prerequisite: ARC332 Design Studio IV

ARC484 Regional Urbanism

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This course entails students preparing a case study of a regional town, supported by a field survey of the urban environment and its historical development, as well as an investigation of the role of climate, topography, typology, building technology and other factors in the development of its urban plan and morphology.

Prerequisite: ARC332 Design Studio IV

ARC501 Design Workshop I

[0–2, 1 cr.]

This course is a workshop (taught in conjunction with Design Studio VII) that introduces new computer modeling and rendering techniques and/or explores new technologies in structural and environmental design.

Prerequisite: ARC432 Design Studio VI and Co-requisite: ARC531 Design Studio VII

ARC502 Design Workshop II

[0–2, 1 cr.]

This course is a workshop in design topics that offers exposure to the practice of architecture in other contexts, revolving around specific and intensive design exercises, as a supplement to Design Studio VIII.

Prerequisite: ARC432 Design Studio VI and Co-requisite: ARC532 Design Studio VIII

ARC521 Building Technology III

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course deals with detailing in design and the role of detail in the generation of design—from brick to wood and steel detailing—using actual drawings and/or actual construction exercises, at 1:1 or 1:2 scale of wall sections in different materials, as well as in fixture details, windows, and other architectural components.

ARC522 Building Technology IV

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course is an analysis of high-tech construction systems such as steel and glass as well as new systems and materials of construction and their various properties and technical advantages. The course focuses on the specific characteristics of each system/material and its compatibility with other materials and its physical treatment as well as the different possibilities of its finishing, weathering, and maintenance.

ARC523 Environmental Systems I

[3–0, 3 cr.]

This course covers the study and design of plumbing systems in addition to heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems, with a survey of the different systems and their properties, cost analysis, and environmental factors including a survey of environmentally sound alternatives such as solar energy and heating, insulated walls, and alternative materials.

ARC524 Environmental Systems II

[3–0, 3 cr.]

This course deals with two subjects: lighting and electrical circuits, and acoustics. The first part addresses the analysis of the basic electric circuits, with emphasis on energy management, electric ratings and capacity, wiring, and lighting systems and different lighting equipment, and the methods for building electrical systems. The second part is a survey of basic acoustical systems, theories, the acoustic properties of different materials used in buildings and their impact on noise reduction, as well as a study of the properties of acoustical spaces, such as theaters or concert halls.

ARC531 Design Studio VII

[3–4, 5 cr.]

This studio is an elaboration on projects with a continuing emphasis on technical, structural and environmental parameters in design. These are covered through the investigation of complex building types, stressing the necessity of adapting computer-aided means as a design tool in the early phases of the design process, namely from analysis to design production. The studio also investigates emerging technologies in environmental systems as a means to making new buildings more responsive to environmental issues.

Prerequisite: ARC432 Design Studio VI and Co-requisite: ARC501 Design Workshop I

ARC532 Design Studio VIII

[3–4, 5 cr.]

This studio is open to new issues in design through engaging in projects that address contemporary design problems and/or use state of the art media in the process of design production and representation. Projects that deal with complex urban issues and/or competitions are encouraged at this stage.

Prerequisite: ARC531 Design Studio VII and Co-requisite: ARC502 Design Workshop II

ARC551 Computer Graphics Studio

[2–4, 4 cr.]

A design studio oriented towards investigating and conceptualizing design problems through computer-aided tools from their initial stages to design development by means of new digital methodologies.

Prerequisite: Any two of the following courses: ARC451 Digital Modeling, ARC452 Computer Animation, ARC454 Dynamic 3D Modeling

ARC561 Seminar

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course involves a series of lectures and/or presentations that focus discussion around ideas, theories and projects that influenced classical, modern or contemporary developments in architecture.

Prerequisite: ARC432 Design Studio VI

ARC580 Topics in Architecture

[3–0, 3 cr.]

This series of courses deals with specific topics of current importance that are not usually covered in the Architecture curriculum. The topics and themes dealt with vary depending on contemporary problematics with the purpose of enriching students’ exposure to these issues. Every course in this series is assigned a subtitle once the theme is defined and is then listed in the course offerings.

Prerequisite: ARC432 Design Studio VI

ARC581 Urban Planning I

[3–0, 3 cr.]

This course is a survey of the city as a historical development in relation to economic, social and political factors, from the early settlements to the development of contemporary urbanism. It involves a broad overview of current planning theories, from the context of modernist ideals to the social studies of planners and sociologists.

Prerequisite: ARC432 Design Studio VI

ARC582 Urban Planning II

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course is a study of actual planning processes, issues and problems, urban and regional zoning, and demographical projections, with comparative studies of regional or international planning cases.

Prerequisite: ARC581 Urban Planning I

ARC583 Internship

[0–0, 1 cr.]

This course is an introduction to professional practice, with introductory lectures that outline the basics of the job search, application, and practical training. The course involves a documented practical experience in a professional firm, approved by the department.

Prerequisite: ARC481 Construction Documents and ARC532 Design Studio VIII

ARC584 Building Codes and Laws

[1–0, 1 cr.]

This course is a study of local and regional building codes, with an introduction to other codes (USA, Europe, and the Arab World) as comparative tools and an introduction to the local laws governing the building industry.

ARC585 Professional Practice

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course introduces the business aspects of the design practice through exploration of the financial, legal, and managerial aspects of professional practice as well as contract negotiations, marketing design services, and management of client and contractor relationships, with an introduction to the economic and management principles of design projects, financing, cost-estimation, and budgeting.

Prerequisite: ARC432 Design Studio VI

ARC591 International Studio

[1–4, 3 cr.]

This studio involves a study abroad covering the specific works of classical or modern architecture, supported by a preparatory series of lectures/presentations on the subject of study. Students are required to study, analyze and document specific works including their relationship to the urban history and culture of the area, which will be presented in a portfolio.

Prerequisite: ARC432 Design Studio VI.

ARC595 International Studio

[1–4, 3 cr.]

This studio offers an opportunity for the students to gain a first-hand experience of the wealth and breadth of the material heritage of the Arab and Islamic worlds. The knowledge gained through the design history and theory courses will be complemented by field trips and site visits that offer direct exposure to and engagement with the architectural heritage of a particular region in the Islamic world, or an area with substantial Islamic heritage outside of the Islamic world. Students will be required to analyze and document specific works and study their relationship with the urban history and culture of the area. This will then be documented and presented in a portfolio.

Prerequisite: ARC432 Design Studio VI.

ARC601 Final Project Research

[0–2, 1 cr.]

This is a research course supervised by the advisor selected for the final project studio, with the elaboration and definition of a thesis proposal, including a detailed program and site analysis, as well as the documentation of any other relevant research material.

Prerequisite: ARC532 Design Studio VIII

ARC631 Design Studio IX

[3–4, 5 cr.]

This studio will concentrate on a design problem addressing the urban dimension in architecture. Projects in this studio analyze problems of practical relevance to contemporary urban settings, with an investigation of the social and ideological aspects of the urban design process. Projects in this studio deal with a comprehensive study of a city or a section of a large city, as a prelude to the development of a final project and as an elaboration to the studies developed in this studio.

Prerequisite: ARC532 Design Studio VIII

ARC632 Design Studio X

[3–4, 5 cr.]

The final studio in this sequence is an opportunity for students to develop an individual project through the formulation of a critical problem. The project must simultaneously address the various factors in the design process and lead to a synthesis that demonstrates a thorough understanding and resolution of the different issues analyzed in the design of a building, from the understanding of context, to structural and environmental systems, down to the details of construction.

Prerequisites: ARC601 Final Project Research and ARC631 Design Studio IX