As canonical architectural texts focus on designs and buildings of signature architects, the focus of this course is on the architectural fabric of rural and urban settlements rather than formal aspects of individual buildings. Students are familiarized with anonymous buildings and everyday environments where means of technical and cultural sustainability take precedence over stylistic issues. Ranging from climate control in vernacular settings to survival strategies of squatter settlements, migrant neighborhoods and refugee camps, the course addresses issues of both technical and social/cultural nature, which remain outside mainstream architectural discourses.
