Architectural Design

Core modules:

Live Project 1

This is a core module for all MAAD students. Students work together in Live Project groups with students from other Masters courses for the first six weeks of the Autumn semester. Live Project groups with a range of clients including local community groups, charities, health organisations and regional authorities. Live Projects include design/build, masterplanning, building feasibility studies, sustainability strategies, online resources and participation toolkits. In every case, the project is real, happening in real time with real people. Specific projects vary on an annual basis, but are chosen to develop student's skills in design, team building, briefing, client liaison, community engagement and project management. The projects in these modules are entirely group based, with students working mostly in teams of 13-15 people.

15 credits

Design Project 1

This module is the first in a sequence of two studio based design modules. It allows students to develop a design project. The development of advanced design skills is based on a 'studio' system, with different tutors setting agendas and projects that encompass a diverse range of themes. Students choose to follow one studio from a range that are offered. Specific projects vary on an annual basis, but are chosen to develop students skills in design - in combination with design research methodologies, along with an integrated understanding of technological, environmental, social and cultural issues. The different studios each have their own teaching patterns and assessment methods.

15 credits

Design Project 2

This unit is the second in a sequence of three studio based design modules. It allows students to develop a design project. The development of advanced design skills is based on a 'studio' system, with different tutors setting agendas and projects that encompass a diverse range of themes. Students choose to follow one studio from a range that are offered. Specific projects vary on an annual basis, but are chosen to develop students skills in design, in combination with design research methodologies, and along with an integrated understanding of technological, environmental, social and cultural issues. The different studios each have their own teaching patterns and assessment methods.

30 credits

Reflections on Architectural Design

The unit introduces the history, theory and application of design methodologies in architecture and related practices. Based on a critical analysis of precedents and approaches, students will be expected to develop their own methods for use in architectural design

15 credits

Environment and Technology in Design

An advanced course in environmental design technologies and techniques developed around a sustainable framework. The course is grouped around broad environmental and natural themes to encourage an integrated and holistic approach to technology within the design process. The module focuses on research and investigation as a tool for developing students’ understanding of complex technology concepts, including how technology integrates with the wider building and how it interacts with and is used by building occupants and users.

15 credits

Theory and Research in Design

This module aims to develop the student's overall understanding of contemporary matters and theories pertinent to architectural design and built environment issues, such as climate change and social justice. Students will develop an interdisciplinary and contemporary understanding of architecture, design, society and environment, with an emphasis on theory as a tool to open debate and provoke designerly thought and activity on alternative views and approaches to architecture and design.

The module consists of lectures that introduce and describe contemporary concepts and theories applicable to built environment, architecture, and design research, in tandem with seminars through the Theory Forum, a conference hosted annually by the Sheffield School of Architecture, focusing each year on a theme of contemporary relevance for architectural theory and practice.

The aim of the module is to develop the student's ability to write in a way that deals with complex issues, and that addresses the outcomes of the module.

15 credits

Architectural Design Thesis Project

This module allows students to develop their own in-depth project based on an individual research theme and the synthesised knowledge and skills gained from all previous units required for this programme.

60 credits

Optional modules:

Reflections on Architectural Education

This module is for those students taking the MArch in Architecture or other Masters programmes offered by the Departments. It aims to explore the wider context of architectural education as well as studying current thinking on the techniques for tutoring and reviewing in the design studio. Students undertaking this module would gain first hand experience of these techniques through assisting in the teaching of undergraduate students within the department. Assessment will take the form of a self reflective essay about their experience of helping to teach undergraduate architectural students, with reference to appropriate literature.

15 credits

Conservation and Regeneration Principles and Approaches

This module introduces a range of theoretical and practical approaches to architectural design interventions in the historic built environment. It will explore conceptual and philosophical debates within architectural conservation and heritage studies, addressing the conflicting and complementary approaches that have historically been employed. You will be encouraged to develop a critical understanding of conservation and built heritage issues and to evaluate the role of architectural conservation in historical rural and urban regeneration.

15 credits

Participation in Architecture and Urban Design

The unit introduces the history, theory and application of participation in architecture and urban design. Based on a critical analysis of precedents, students will be expected to develop their own participatory methods for use in urban design

15 credits

Parametric Architectural Geometry

This module aims to support an emerging need to better understand concepts and skills for architectural geometry construction using parametric modelling processes. In particular, the course emphasizes computational schemes that can assist designers in managing geometry data and propagating designs. Students are introduced to both the theoretical framework and implementation of architectural geometry construction. This module is delivered through a series of lectures, hands-on workshops and individual assignments/projects. As a result students will learn contemporary parametric modelling techniques for customizing generative design systems, navigating design variations, analysing design artefacts and exploring design manifestations.

15 credits

Power, Space, Society

The unit focuses on socio-political, economical, ideological and cultural factors shaping and influencing buildings and cities. In a tradition of critical theory, this module analyses hidden aspects of built environment causing social exclusion / inclusion and oppression / emancipation. Through lectures and group seminars, the module will provide an introduction to critical analyses of built environment in a global context. Each session is organised around a particular issue analysed in diverse contexts.

15 credits

Behaviour in the Built Environment

The urban/built environment influences the behaviour of people; equally, people’s behaviour can shape the environment. Understanding the interaction between people and their environment promotes the design of spaces and buildings that meet the needs of the people who occupy them. This module will discuss principles of behavioural and environmental psychology in the context of the design and management of indoor and outdoor spaces, including the application and interpretation of behavioural research methods. A key objective is for students to be better equipped to deliver a sustainable environment that meets user requirements.

15 credits

Building Information Modelling, Management and Analysis

This module aims to introduce Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology in practice with a focus on the technical aspects of how building data, both geometric and non-geometric, are created and integrated to support processes of designing, constructing and operating buildings. Fundamental knowledge and contemporary skills of using BIM will be delivered through a series of lectures, seminars, and hands-on workshops. Through executing individual assignments and term projects, students will learn BIM techniques to construct data-enriched virtual models and formulate critical thinking in how BIM can support innovative collaboration during various design, construction and operation phases along the building life cycle.

15 credits

Critical Spatial Writing

Critical spatial writing understands space as an entanglement of exchanges, conflicts, and negotiations. The sites of architecture, whether a city, frontier, room or encounter, are viewed both as subjects of research and spaces for intervention. With readings, lectures and group seminars, the module will provide an introduction to critical spatial writing through an exploration of contemporary arts, architectures and urban interventions with particular attention to issues such as difference and diversity, decolonisation, ecology and intersectional feminism. It will examine different forms of writing about architecture and how we might write about space critically, creatively and relationally. Each session is organised around a number of set texts for lecture delivery, and student-led writing / discussion.

15 credits

Building Environmental Simulation and Analysis

The course unit aims to provide a general understanding of, and practical experience in computer modelling software systems. This involves the following: Thorough understanding of basic concepts of computer simulation, develop the ability to apply these concepts in real life situations. Understanding the use of computer simulation and the need to use the appropriate software to answer a specific enquiry. Understanding the relationships between the required outcome of a simulation exercise and the input details necessary to produce a valid answer.

15 credits

Materials for Low Impact Buildings - Theory

This module engages through lectures and seminars with a range of materials for low impact buildings which may include load-bearing and frame construction using straw bales, rammed earth, adobe, cob, compressed earth blocks, hemp-lime blocks, earth renders and plasters, timber techniques. The aim is to give students in depth theoretical knowledge about the environmental performance, practical applications and historical use of materials for low impact buildings through lectures and seminars.

15 credits