UNITE
T1 / 24
49.265898683400955, -123.251743608119557
A1 - Home Ground
A2 - Cube Method
A3 - Supernatural • nitobe • šxʷsyiçəm (spanish banks)
A4 - Buchanan Rain
A5/A6 - Lost in Translation
Environment, Urban Form, Infrastructure explores the interplay between environment, urban form, and infrastructure through a holistic approach. We are to engage in a series of observational, analytical, and design exercises, connecting with urban landscapes at various scales. The course integrates both analog and digital methods to investigate how urban environments function globally. Weekly site visits, readings, and assignments build critical thinking and visual literacy, empowering us to envision new urban futures and strengthen our design skills.
Learning Expectations
Develop a holistic understanding of urban form, environment, and infrastructure.
Learn to communicate urban and environmental concepts through oral and visual representation.
Strengthen skills in observation, diagramming, and representation techniques.
Enhance ability to engage in constructive critical discussions on urban design topics
Structure
DES 430 includes weekly lectures, site visits, and blog-based assignments, encouraging collaboration and peer discussion. Students are expected to contribute actively to a course blog and engage in debates on current environmental and urban topics. The course also incorporates generative AI tools for design ideation, with a focus on responsible use and citation of these tools. Academic integrity, equitable teamwork, and participation are emphasized in evaluations.