course-details-portlet

AAR4209 - Structural Concepts in Architectural Design, Models and Methods

About

Examination arrangement

Examination arrangement: Portfolio
Grade: Letter grades

Evaluation Weighting Duration Grade deviation Examination aids
Portfolio 100/100

Course content

The course provides introduction to application of digital and physical models for development and analyses of structural concepts as part of architectural design. This includes design by optimization by known structural schemes as well as more open processes generating and developing structural geometries and structural systems.

The course also includes how architectural concepts of forms can be examined and developed by structural design. By incorporating structural concepts into architectural design, we aim to make more efficient use of limited materials while at the same time contribute to attractive architectural design.

Learning outcome

GENERAL COMPETENCE:

The course will provide an overview of the relationships between structural concepts and explicit shapes/forms of buildings as well as physical and digital tools for studying this.

KNOWLEDGE:

After completing the course, the students will have practice- based knowledge about how to develop and analyze structural concepts by means of physical models such as "hanging-chain models" and "minimal-surface models" and about applying digital models linking architectural evaluation of forms with structural analyses typically by finite element modelling.

Skills:

The students will be able to apply digital and physical models for designing and analyzing structural concepts as an integrated part of architectural form.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and exercises. The exercises include physical as well as digital modelling. The share of physical vs. digital models may vary, for instance due to the background of the students.

Further on evaluation

Grades are based on assessment of a portfolio and oral presentation. It will be announced in the start of the semester about the nature and scope of the various works. Evaluation of the oral presentation is linked to the evaluation of the project work.The right to complain applies only after the final grade has been given. Postponed examinations are usually scheduled for the next regular exam period.

Specific conditions

Admission to a programme of study is required:
Architecture (MAAR)
Civil Engineering (MTBYGG)

Required previous knowledge

The course is open for students who have completed the third year of NTNU master program in Architecture, students who are enrolled in NTNU master program in Sustainable architecture, and for students in NTNU master program in Cvil and Environmental Engineering that are enrolled in the course "Introduction to Architectural Design for Engineers" (AAR4208) and thereby in NTNU Minor in Architecture for Engineers.

More on the course

No

Facts

Version: 1
Credits:  7.5 SP
Study level: Second degree level

Coursework

Term no.: 1
Teaching semester:  SPRING 2025

Language of instruction: English, Norwegian

Location: Trondheim

Subject area(s)
  • Architecture
Contact information
Course coordinator:

Department with academic responsibility
Department of Architecture and Technology

Examination

Examination arrangement: Portfolio

Term Status code Evaluation Weighting Examination aids Date Time Examination system Room *
Spring ORD Portfolio 100/100 INSPERA
Room Building Number of candidates
Summer UTS Portfolio 100/100 INSPERA
Room Building Number of candidates
  • * The location (room) for a written examination is published 3 days before examination date. If more than one room is listed, you will find your room at Studentweb.
Examination

For more information regarding registration for examination and examination procedures, see "Innsida - Exams"

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