23159 - Constructive Elements and Executive Design

Learning outcomes

The construction of an architectural artefact requires knowledge and logical organisation ability about the different construction steps. Managing the architectural project and its implementation steps represents - through its executive development - the essential synthetic moment of description needed to construct any building. The clarity and effectiveness of this process also depend on the use of specific building elements and technologies, as well as on a full understanding of the properties of the materials provided. Within this general framework, the proposed analytical methodology will thus focus on identifying the stages and operational aspects of executive design, with particular attention to the design and transformation of an existing building.

Course contents

Lectures and project work will develop the following topics:
- knowledge and development of architectural design, from preliminary to executive planning;
- aspects of executive design related to technical and construction needs;
- technical and prescriptive documents; executive design graphic conventions;
- building components and elements (underground works, vertical and horizontal structures, curtain walls and coatings, doors and windows, plants, etc.).

Readings/Bibliography

AAVV. Manuale di progettazione edilizia, Hoepli, Milano 1992-95
AAVV. Grande Atlante di Architettura, UTET, Torino 1998-99
A. Mangiarotti, Lezioni di progettazione esecutiva, Maggioli Editore, Rimini 2000
AAVV. Progettare per costruire, Maggioli Editore, Rimini 1999
CASABELLA (rivista mensile di architettura, numeri da definire)
EL CROQUIS (rivista trimestrale di architettura, numeri da definire)
DETAIL (rivista mensile di tecnica e dettagli costruttivi)

Teaching methods

Lectures will be supplemented with practical coursework (to be defined) and visits to construction sites. The coursework will involve "dismantling" a building into its main and structural elements, in order to identify the components that determine its solidity and form. Students will then be asked to pull down and rebuild one part of the building according to executive plan conventions. Coursework can be done individually or in groups.

Assessment methods

Coursework will be reviewed periodically, so as to also assess understanding of lecture topics. Coursework results will be discussed during the final examination.

Office hours

See the website of Gino Malacarne

See the website of Ildebrando Clemente