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40 417 Transformation in Practice
Admission to AHO and successful completion of three years bachelor level studies (180 ECTS).
Part of course series: Transformation in Practice
The field of preservation and transformation has long been consigned to the fringes of contemporary architecture. However, a paradigm shift is occurring across the discipline. This is emphasized by the awarding of this year’s Pritzker Prize to Lacaton Vassal, with their motto: “Never demolish, never remove or replace, always add, transform and reuse.”
This seminar will provide a framework to practice as an architect, with a focus on working with existing buildings. Students will be introduced to practitioners that work with our existing building stock, both in Norway and internationally, from the restoration of listed buildings, to the transformation of existing buildings, to the reuse of building elements.
The building industry and the laws that govern it have traditionally been geared towards the construction of new buildings, but in this seminar, students will also learn about the regulatory and legal frameworks that govern the reuse of existing building. Gaining a knowledge of these frameworks is integral to general practice and key to the realization of an architectural project.
The seminar will be organized in modules covering the topics listed in the learning outcomes guided by lectures and discussions with professionals from the field. Students will produce a report speculating on the potential future transformation of a case study. Coursework will include resolving fictional scenarios drawn from real situations in practice.
The seminar is not only relevant for students wanting to work in with existing buildings but also those wanting to gain knowledge of general practice. During the duration of the semester students will engage with contemporary architects, conservation architects, planning authorities, heritage authorities, and others working within the building industry from the fields of business and law. Lectures and excursions will support and supplement students' individual case study analysis.
Students are expected to attend all course days and be active participants in the seminar activities.
The elective will be closely linked to the practice work of Kastler Skjeseth Architects. http://www.kastlerskjeseth.no/.
Introductory knowledge of:
- Situating the emerging field of building transformation in relation to one’s own aspirations for future practice
- Documenting and surveying existing buildings
- Relating drawing scales to project stages
- Assessing historic significance
- Understanding the role of regional cultural heritage authorities
- Locating and understanding planning documents
- Writing planning dispensations
- Navigating building regulations, particularly in relation to existing buildings
- Comparing architectural practice models
- Understanding the different construction contracts
- Assessing fee structures
The weekly program for this course will be structured by seminars and excursions. Field trips and outdoor visits will be carried out regardless of weather conditions. Students are responsible for dressing accordingly. Warm and waterproof clothing is recommended. Students are responsible for their own transportation arrangements and bringing any necessary documentation and equipment.
The curriculum will be given out closer to the start date.
| Form of assessment | Grouping | Grading scale | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portfolio assessment (Vurderingsmappe) | - | Pass / fail | As per the course description, each student will be required to produce and present a concise report on a given case study. Reports will include drawn and written material required when developing an architectural project in practice. Areas of study will include several of the topics listed in the learning outcomes. Students are expected to execute the assignment with care, precision and professionality. Assignments will be evaluated on the level of research and quality of the execution, as well as an ability to synthesize knowledge gained in the seminar and apply it to a case study. In preparation for the final submission, students will be required to submit several shorter assignments during the semester. Each submission will contribute to the final report and assessment. The final review will take place during elective week. At the final review, students give a public presentation of their report. There will be no assessment of reports not presented at the final review. |
| Workload activity | Comment |
|---|---|
| Attendance | The elective course will meet every Tuesday. The seminar requires a full day of attendance on Tuesdays and a full week of attendance during the elective week. In addition, students are required work on independent research and complete assignments in their own time. Participation in the course throughout the semester is part of the overall assessment. Students are expected to attend all meetings and be active contributors to the course. |