An important aim for the Multistory Buildings studio course is to explore, study and play with the architectural potential of the loadbearing structure of a building in terms of materiality, design and how the structure can play an active role in framing good spaces for different use.

The first part of the semester will deal with investigation and research of actual structural materials and configuration of loadbearing elements for multistory buildings. These studies will include interesting historical and contemporary architectural examples, and inspiring student projects.

The architectural studies will be concluded in an elaborate and detailed semester project that emphasizes architectural qualities that make the building attractive to future users in the longest possible time perspective.

Therefore, the building will be developed with respect to cultural, social, and environmental sustainability and it should be designed with respect to diversity and flexibility, and include spaces that can be furnished to suit changing needs.

The building shall include a sustainable structural organization of rooms, construction and exterior walls. The structural elements should play a significant role for the architectural quality of the building. The building's vital parts need not to be replaced, but must be serviceable for decades. The principles of ventilation, water and drainage must be studied and specified.

Special attention should be paid to the climate shell and daylight openings.

The building should be prepared for a mix use program.