Architectural Design II 2024/2025 PDF

Architectural Design II Course Code: 8043202-3 Architectural Engineering Program 2024/2025 Dr. Sultan Albogami  Course General Information Course Duration: 8 Weeks Focus Area: Designing a School Building in Taif City, Saudi Arabia Course Instructor: Dr...

Architectural Design II Course Code: 8043202-3 Architectural Engineering Program 2024/2025 Dr. Sultan Albogami  Course General Information Course Duration: 8 Weeks Focus Area: Designing a School Building in Taif City, Saudi Arabia Course Instructor: Dr. Sultan Albogami Credit Hours: 6 Contact Hours: Lecture, Studio per week  Course Overview This course focuses on developing architectural design skills, particularly for educational buildings such as schools, with a special emphasis on the unique context of Taif City, Saudi Arabia. Students will learn to integrate environmental, cultural, and social factors into their designs, with key topics including site analysis, functional space planning, contextual design, and sustainability. The course also covers more complex spatial configurations, addressing functional programming, structural systems, and building materials. A strong emphasis is placed on contextual analysis,  Course Objectives Develop proficiency in designing public mid-sized buildings (such as school buildings) with multiple functional zones. Perform a comprehensive site analysis considering topography, climate, cultural, and urban contexts. Integrate sustainable design strategies and the use of appropriate materials into architectural projects. Apply basic structural systems (walls, columns, beams, slabs) to design. Apply architectural design principles to create spaces that support learning and community engagement. Refine their skills in architectural representation (plans, sections, elevations, models, and digital tools). Collaborate in critiques and develop design communication skills.  Learning Outcomes Upon successful completion of this course, students will: Conduct thorough site analysis and apply findings to their design projects. Create functional spatial layouts considering user needs and building codes. Propose architectural solutions that integrate structural logic and environmental systems. Employ basic principles of passive solar design, natural ventilation, and materials selection. Present designs using hand drawing, digital modelling, and physical models with technical precision.  Course Structure This course will be structured around studio-based design projects, supported by lectures, site visits, and crit sessions. Each week focuses on a different aspect of school building design, progressively building up to the final design project  Students Group Students will be organized into three distinct groups, with each group responsible for developing the design for one of the designated educational stages. Group A (Nursery and Preschool). Group B (Primary School). Group C (Secondary School). Week 1: Introduction to School Building Design Lecture Topic: Overview of school building types and their functions Studio Focus: Introduction to the project brief – Designing a school for Taif City Key Concepts Different types of educational facilities Overview of the functional spaces in schools Assignment: Research on modern school designs from around the world Week 1: Site Analysis and Environmental Considerations Lecture Topic: Site analysis techniques focusing on topography, climate, and surroundings Studio Focus: Conduct a site analysis for the chosen school location in Taif Key Concepts Climate and its effect on architectural design Reading and analyzing topographical maps Assignment: Complete a detailed site analysis report, including sun paths, wind analysis, and natural features. Week 1: Functional Programming and Space Planning Lecture Topic: Functional spaces in schools – classrooms, labs, recreational areas, and administrative spaces. Studio Focus: Create a preliminary program for the school design, outlining space requirements. Key Concepts Zoning and spatial relationships in schools. Developing user-centric design programs. Assignment: Draft a functional program and bubble diagram for the school.  Week 2: Concept Development Lecture Topic: Approaches to concept development in architectural design Studio Focus: Begin conceptual sketches based on site analysis and space planning Key Concepts Conceptual design approaches: form, function, and environment Integrating the site’s natural features into the design Assignment: Present 2-3 preliminary design concepts for review and feedback Week 3: Contextual Design and Cultural Sensitivity Lecture Topic: Understanding the cultural context of Taif and its influence on school design Studio Focus: Refine the design concept to reflect local cultural and environmental factors Key Concepts Cultural and social influences in architectural design Use of local materials and forms in modern school buildings Assignment: Produce sketches that integrate cultural and environmental factors Week 4: Sustainable Design Strategies Lecture Topic: Sustainable design principles for educational buildings Studio Focus: Incorporate sustainability strategies such as passive solar design, natural ventilation, and water conservation into the design Key Concepts Passive design techniques: shading, orientation, natural cooling Green building technologies and materials Assignment: Prepare a sustainability drawings, outlining strategies for the school design Week 5: Detailed Design Development Lecture Topic: Translating concepts into detailed design – focus on structure, materials, and systems. Studio Focus: Develop detailed plans, sections, and elevations. Key Concepts Integration of structural systems in architectural design. Material selection based on site, climate, and sustainability. Assignment: Create detailed architectural drawings, including sections and elevations. Week 6: Mid-Review – Design Critique Studio Focus: Present the developed design concepts, including site plan, floor plans, and preliminary elevations for critique. Key Concepts Design presentation techniques: visual and verbal communication. Addressing feedback constructively to improve design solutions. Assignment: Refine the design based on feedback from the mid-review session. Week 7: Semi-Final Design Development – Presentation Drawings Lecture Topic: Presentation techniques – from drawings to physical and digital models. Studio Focus: Finalize design drawings, including 3D models. Key Concepts Creating compelling architectural presentations. Using software tools for visualization. Assignment: Prepare Semi-Final design presentation materials. Week 8: Final Review and Submission Studio Focus: Final presentation and critique of the school design project Key Concepts Oral presentation skills: communicating design intent effectively. Final design critique – addressing design strengths and areas for improvement. Assignment: Submit the final design project, including all drawings, models, and reports.  Assessment Criteria Architecture Concept and Site Plan 10% Master Plan 10% Plans of School 10% Developed Design 10% Sustainability Principles 10% Mid-Review Presentation 10% Semi-Final Project submission 10% Final Design Project (Jury and Discussion) 30%  Recommended Reading Neufert, ''Architect’s Data'', 4th edition Time-saver Standards for Architectural Design "The Third Teacher: 79 Ways You Can Use Design to Transform Teaching and Learning" by Cannon Design, VS Furniture, and Bruce Mau Design. "Architecture for Education: New School Designs from the Chicago Architecture Awards" by Stephen Kieran. "Educational Facilities: Innovations in Design" by Jonathan D. Solomon. ‫ شركة تطوير‬،‫دليل الحد األدنى لمعايير تصميم مدارس التعليم األهلي واجراءات االعتماد‬.‫للمباني‬.‫ وزارة التعليم‬،‫الدليل الشامل للمنشآت التعليمية‬.‫ وزارة البلديات والشؤون القروية‬،‫دليل تصميم مواقف السيارات‬  Software Tools AutoCAD/Revit: For architectural drawings and BIM. SketchUp/3DS Max: For 3D modeling and visualization. Adobe Photoshop/InDesign: For presentation boards and graphic design.  Week 1 Introduction to School Building Design Dr. Sultan Albogami Introduction to School Building Design Importance of Schools in Community Development Schools are more than just educational facilities; they serve as community hubs, often hosting events, meetings, and activities beyond regular classes Example: Schools in rural areas often provide spaces for community activities, making them vital for local development Introduction to School Building Design Key Aspects of School Design Safety: Ensuring fire exits, secure entry points, and safe circulation paths Functionality: Classrooms, administration, and recreational spaces must be logically organized to support learning and reduce congestion Flexibility: Spaces should adapt to different teaching methods Sustainability: Incorporate green technologies such as solar panels or rainwater collection Introduction to School Building Design Overview of Global Trends Modern school architecture is moving toward more open, flexible spaces that encourage collaboration. Example: The Ørestad Gymnasium in Copenhagen (Denmark) features large, open learning spaces with minimal traditional classroom barriers to encourage student  Educational Spaces in Schools Primary Functional Spaces Classrooms: Designed for different student capacities and teaching styles Administrative Areas: Should be centrally located to provide easy access to students and visitors Recreational Spaces: Include outdoor playgrounds, gymnasiums, and multi-purpose halls that foster physical and social development Specialized Rooms: Labs, art studios, and music rooms that cater to specific curriculum requirements  Educational Spaces in Schools Flexible Learning Environments Modern designs emphasize flexibility, allowing rooms to transform based on curricular needs Example: Open learning zones that accommodate individual work, group projects, or lectures based on the moment’s need  Educational Spaces in Schools Multi-functional Spaces Spaces such as libraries and common areas can serve different functions throughout the day. Example: A library might be used for independent study during school hours and as a community resource in the evening.  Week 1 Site Analysis and Environmental Considerations Dr. Sultan Albogami  Introduction to Site Analysis Definition of Site Analysis: Site analysis is the process of evaluating the physical, environmental, and cultural conditions of a location to inform design decisions. Importance: Understanding the site’s topography, climate, access points, and surrounding context helps in creating functional, sustainable, and contextually appropriate designs  Introduction to Site Analysis Key Factors: Climate, soil type, drainage patterns, sun exposure, prevailing winds, access routes, and cultural factors all play a role in determining how a building is designed Example: A school designed for a site in a hot desert region like Taif will require different strategies compared to one in a cooler, urban environment.  Introduction to Site Analysis Site Analysis Factors Topography: Building on slopes or flat lands can drastically change the design Climate: Temperature, humidity, and prevailing winds should influence the placement of windows, walls, and open spaces Vegetation: Existing trees and plants can be integrated into the design to provide shade and enhance the natural aesthetics Surroundings: Noise, neighboring buildings, and community amenities all affect the design  Topography and Terrain in Taif Taif’s Unique Mountainous Terrain Building in mountainous regions poses challenges such as potential soil erosion, difficulty in leveling the site, and access issues Strategies for Building on Sloped Sites Designing terraced structures that follow the natural contours of the land, minimizing site disturbance and maximizing natural beauty Example: Schools built in terraced formations can have different building levels serving different functions, with each level benefiting from natural light and ventilation  Topography and Terrain in Taif Integrating Natural Features Natural vegetation and water features can be retained and integrated into the design to enhance the school’s connection to the environment and provide shaded outdoor learning spaces Example: An existing rock outcrop or mature tree might be preserved as a central feature in a school courtyard, providing natural shade and a focal point  Climate and Weather Patterns Climate Considerations Taif is located in the western region of Saudi Arabia, known for its cooler climate compared to surrounding desert cities, and its mountainous terrain. Passive Cooling: Designing buildings with deep overhangs, shaded courtyards, and reflective materials to reduce heat absorption Example: In traditional Arabian architecture, narrow streets and high walls create shaded outdoor spaces, which could be mimicked in school courtyards.  Climate and Weather Patterns Sun path analysis to optimize building orientation Wind patterns and how they influence natural ventilation strategies Temperature variations and their impact on material selection and shading. Example: In response to the hot climate, the school could be oriented to avoid direct sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day, and design features like wide overhangs and  Integrating Natural Landscape Taif’s terrain is mountainous, providing opportunities for terraced landscaping or using sloped roofs to echo the surrounding topography. Importance of integrating the building with the natural landscape Using the landscape to enhance the school environment: play areas, outdoor learning spaces, and recreational zones Strategies for minimizing  Landscape Integration Using the Natural Landscape: The design should aim to blend with the surrounding landscape Outdoor Learning Spaces: Designing spaces like amphitheaters or open classrooms that integrate with the natural environment promotes active learning and connects students with nature Recreational Areas: Green spaces and playgrounds can be designed to enhance students' physical well- being while minimizing environmental disruption  Cultural Context and Local Styles Taif’s Cultural Heritage Taif is known for its historical significance and connection to traditional Arabian architecture Incorporating Local Building Materials and Forms Using locally available materials such as stone and wood helps reduce the environmental impact and creates a design that is reflective of its region Example: Utilizing stone walls with intricate geometric patterns, reflecting traditional Arabian architectural motifs Designing for Community Engagement Schools in smaller communities often serve as multi-functional spaces that host not only educational activities but also community events Example: A school courtyard could serve as both a student gathering place and a community event venue after school hours  Site Selection and Surroundings Criteria for Selecting a School Site Accessibility is key for students, teachers, and visitors Example: A school located at the intersection of two major roads but set back with a buffer zone like a green park Integration of School within Its Surroundings A school’s design should not disrupt its surrounding environment Example: In a residential neighborhood, the school’s height and massing should be consistent with the surrounding houses, preserving the area’s scale and feel  Site Selection and Surroundings Zoning Regulations and Urban Context Understanding local zoning laws is critical, particularly when it comes to height restrictions, building setbacks, and land-use regulations Example: A school in Taif may need to adhere to specific guidelines for building height due to cultural sensitivities or proximity to historical sites Environmental Constraints and Mitigation Potential Constraints: Common environmental constraints include noise pollution from nearby roads, air quality issues, and traffic congestion Mitigation Strategies: Noise barriers, strategic planting of trees, and careful placement of classrooms away from noisy areas are ways to mitigate these constraints Balancing Constraints with Opportunities: Designers must balance these constraints with opportunities, such as scenic views, natural ventilation, and proximity to community resources Example: A school located near a busy road in Taif might use sound-insulating materials in the walls and strategically place trees or shrubs as sound buffers while also creating visually Environmental Sustainability Considerations Sustainable design strategies for minimizing environmental impact Incorporating passive design elements such as natural ventilation, daylighting, and shading devices Efficient water management: rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling Use of local, sustainable building materials to reduce carbon footprint  Site Access and Circulation Vehicular and Pedestrian Access: The ease of access to the school site is critical for safety and functionality Internal Circulation: Inside the site, the design should facilitate smooth movement of students, staff, and visitors Connectivity to Surrounding Area: The school’s location should be well- connected to nearby roads, public transport, and community facilities Example: A school with easy access from multiple roads could reduce traffic congestion, especially during peak pick-up and drop-off times Conclusion and Design Implications Summary: Recap the critical aspects of site analysis, including topography, climate, and access, and explain how these factors influence the final design decisions Design Implications: Emphasize the importance of aligning the school’s design with the site’s natural and environmental characteristics to create a functional, sustainable, and context-sensitive facility Next Steps in Design: Moving forward into conceptual design, students will begin creating preliminary sketches and massing models based on the site analysis.  Week 1 Functional Programming and Space Dr. Planning Sultan Albogami  Introduction Brief overview of the importance of functional spaces in school design. Highlight the focus on creating spaces that support learning, social interaction, and community engagement. Overview of the main types of functional spaces covered: classrooms, labs, recreational areas, and administrative spaces.  Classrooms Importance of classrooms as core educational spaces Design considerations: natural lighting, acoustics, ventilation, and flexibility Classrooms should support different teaching styles: lecture-based, group work, and individual learning Example: Modular classrooms with flexible layouts.  Science and Technology Labs Specialized spaces for hands-on learning in subjects like science, technology, and engineering. Design considerations: safety, storage, specialized equipment, and adaptability for different experiments. Example: A multi-use science lab that can support both chemistry and physics lessons.  Art and Design Studios Spaces that foster creativity and artistic expression. Design considerations: natural lighting, display areas, flexible workstations, and ventilation for art materials. Example: An open-plan art studio with high ceilings and ample space for both individual and collaborative work. Recreational Areas – Playgrounds and Sports Facilities Importance of outdoor and indoor recreational spaces for student health and social development. Design considerations: safe playground equipment, shaded areas, and multi-use sports facilities. Example: A combination of indoor gymnasiums and outdoor sports fields.  Cafeterias and Dining Areas Dining spaces as social hubs where students gather during breaks Design considerations: seating capacity, circulation, natural lighting, and acoustics Example: A spacious, open-plan cafeteria with flexible seating arrangements and natural  Administrative Spaces The central hub for school operations – principal's office, staff rooms, and administrative offices. Design considerations: centralized location, privacy, security, and accessibility for students and parents. Example: A well-organized administrative wing with clear separation between staff and public areas.  Multi-Purpose Spaces Spaces that can serve various functions, such as auditoriums, common areas, and libraries. Design considerations: flexibility in layout, technology integration, and acoustics for different events. Example: A multi-purpose hall that can be used for assemblies, performances, and community events.  Conclusion and Next Steps Recap of the importance of functional spaces in supporting learning and development Emphasizing how thoughtful design enhances the educational experience Overview of the next steps: moving from functional programming to detailed design development  Week 1 Concept Development Dr. Sultan Albogami Introduction to Concept Development Concept development is the foundational phase of architectural design, where ideas are structured and visualized Concept development isn't just about creating a visually appealing structure; it’s about ensuring that the design aligns with the project’s objectives, site conditions, and functional requirements Example:In the design of the Makoko Floating School in Lagos, the concept was driven by environmental and cultural factors Introduction to Concept Development Define Concept Development: The initial phase in architectural design where ideas are formed, visualized, and structured Importance: Concept development in architecture ensures that the final design is cohesive and meets the client’s functional, aesthetic, and environmental requirements Key Influences: For the Taif school project, climate, culture, and the topographical features of the site will play a large role in shaping Approaches to Concept Development Architects can use different strategies to develop a concept. Top-Down Approach: This begins with an overall vision or big idea. Bottom-Up Approach: This approach focuses on functionality and site- specific constraints from the beginning. Hybrid Approach: Combining both strategies can allow designers to explore bold concepts while keeping practicality in mind. Example: The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao by Frank Gehry is a clear example of a top-down approach, where the initial concept was to create an iconic form that would become a Approaches to Concept Development Top-Down Approach: Begin with a broad vision or conceptual idea, and refine it step-by-step by focusing on site, client needs, and architectural elements Bottom-Up Approach: Start by addressing functional requirements or site-specific issues and gradually develop the form around these Hybrid Approach: Combine both methods—starting with a general vision while refining details as functional and site- specific issues arise Example: A top-down approach might focus on creating an iconic architectural form first, while a bottom-up approach would start by solving practical issues like orientation and circulation before addressing form Conceptual Design Approaches – Form Form in architectural design refers to the physical shape, volume, and structure of the building. The form of a building can evoke various emotions and responses. Example: The Institute of Management in Ahmedabad, designed by Louis Kahn, is an example of how form can emerge as a response to the environment. Conceptual Design Approaches – Form Form: Focus on the shape, volume, and physical structure of the building Design Principles: Symmetry, balance, rhythm, contrast, and hierarchy are some of the principles that guide form School Design in Taif: The form of the school could reflect the local architecture of Taif, using geometric patterns or responding to the mountainous terrain. Example: Consider designing a low-rise building to match the natural topography of Taif, with large shaded courtyards to handle the desert climate. Conceptual Design Approaches – Function Functionality ensures that the building serves its purpose efficiently A functional design for the school in Taif needs to account for the specific needs of students, teachers, and administrative staff. Example: In contrary to function, the Vittra School in Sweden is a modern example where the boundaries between classrooms and social spaces are blurred Conceptual Design Approaches – Function Functionality: The design must meet the functional requirements of the building, ensuring that spaces such as classrooms, administrative offices, and recreational areas are optimally arranged. Designing for Learning: Modern school designs emphasize flexibility, collaboration spaces, and access to outdoor learning environments. Spatial Zoning: How spaces are organized to maximize efficiency and meet the needs of both students and staff. Conceptual Design Approaches – Environment Environmental considerations in architectural design focus on how the building interacts with its natural surroundings For the school in Taif, environmental design should address the climate challenge. Example: The Masdar Institute in Abu Dhabi integrates environmental considerations by using wind towers for natural ventilation, shading devices to reduce solar gain, and solar panels to provide energy Conceptual Design Approaches – Environment Environmental Design: The relationship between the building and its surrounding environment is crucial Sustainability: Incorporating environmentally sustainable strategies like passive cooling, water conservation, and energy-efficient materials Local Climate: In Taif’s cooler but still desert-like environment, design approaches such as shaded courtyards, wind towers, and solar orientation become essential Integrating the Site’s Natural Features into the Design A successful design integrates the site's natural features, rather than working against them. In Taif, the site may have distinct topographical features, such as hills or rocky outcrops. Example: The Fallingwater House by Frank Lloyd Wright is an iconic example of how a building can integrate with its natural environment. Integrating the Site’s Natural Features into the Design Topographical Response: The design should take advantage of natural slopes or hills for terraced structures or sunken courtyards, reducing excavation and earthwork Vegetation and Landscape: Use existing trees and plant species to create shaded outdoor spaces, minimizing water use while maintaining a green environment Natural Materials: The use of local materials, such as stone or brick from the Taif region, can integrate the building aesthetically with the landscape Conceptual Design and Cultural Context A building should reflect the cultural and historical context of its location. Taif is rich in cultural history, and the design of the school should reflect this. Example: King Abdulaziz Historical Center, Saudi Arabia, blends traditional forms with modern construction techniques. Conceptual Design and Cultural Context Cultural Considerations: Respecting the cultural and historical heritage of the region in the design process is crucial. Design Language: Using a modern interpretation of traditional forms can result in a design that is both functional and culturally resonant. Cultural Identity: How the school reflects local traditions while embracing modern educational needs. Introduction to Functional and Circulation Studies Understanding how spaces within a building interact with one another and the flow of movement within the structure. In a school, circulation and functional layouts are crucial for managing student movement and ensuring that spaces support educational activities efficiently. Architectural Matrix and Bubble Diagrams are aid in organizing space and circulation in school design.  Architectural Matrix What is an Architectural Matrix?: A table that lists the relationships between different functional spaces in a building (e.g., classrooms, cafeterias, libraries) and their level of interaction. Purpose: Helps architects ensure that spaces with high interaction are placed adjacent to one another while reducing unnecessary travel distances. Usage: Helps structure key functional areas like classrooms, administration, recreational areas, and utilities How to Create an Architectural Matrix Step 1: List all the required spaces (e.g., classrooms, cafeteria, gym, staff rooms, etc.). Step 2: Determine the necessary interactions between these spaces (e.g., classrooms and washrooms have high interaction, classrooms and storage areas have low interaction). Step 3: Populate the matrix with interaction levels (high, medium, low, or no interaction). Step 4: Use this data to influence the spatial layout and organization of the school.  Bubble Diagrams What is a Bubble Diagram?: A conceptual tool used to visually represent the relationship between different spaces in a building using circles or "bubbles" to show proximity and size relationships. Purpose: Helps designers understand spatial relationships in an intuitive way before moving into more detailed plans. Usage: Enables designers to see how classrooms, halls, administrative offices, and playgrounds can be positioned  Steps to Create a Bubble Diagram Step 1: Identify all key functional spaces that the building will require (e.g., learning spaces, outdoor areas, service spaces). Step 2: Use the Architectural Matrix to guide which spaces need to be close to one another. Step 3: Draw bubbles for each space, scaling them according to their importance or size in the building. Step 4: Connect related spaces with lines or positioning based on required interaction. Step 5: Adjust bubble sizes and positions as needed to optimize circulation and space utilization. Circulation Patterns in School Design Why Circulation is Key: Efficient circulation ensures smooth movement of students, staff, and visitors, preventing overcrowding and confusion during transitions between classes, lunch, or outdoor activities. Types of Circulation Patterns: Linear Circulation: Hallways and corridors that lead from one end of the building to the other. Radial Circulation: Centralized patterns where spaces radiate outward, useful for common areas or central courtyards. Grid Circulation: Intersecting hallways, allowing for more flexibility and movement between different zones. Importance of Clear Paths: Especially in schools, safety and clear routes are important to guide large groups of students and maintain order. Integrating Circulation and Functionality Functionality and Flow: How to ensure that circulation paths logically connect functional spaces. For instance, classrooms should be near restrooms, and the gymnasium should be accessible without disrupting learning areas. Zoning: Dividing the school into zones for learning, recreation, and administrative functions, and ensuring that circulation paths respect these zones while maintaining fluid movement between them. Example of a well-designed school with a focus on functional zoning and efficient circulation patterns. Conclusion – Key Takeaways for Conceptual Design Recap: Review the importance of balancing form, function, and environment in concept development for school design. Functional and circulation studies help ensure that spaces in the school serve their purpose efficiently while supporting smooth movement throughout the building. Apply these concepts in their design projects, focusing on how to integrate the site’s natural features into their own school designs. Starting with the creation of architectural matrices and bubble diagrams for the school building project. Discussion Points: What are the key challenges in designing for Taif’s unique environment, and how can these challenges be turned into design opportunities? Conclusion – Key Takeaways for Conceptual Design https://thearchitectsdiary.com/20-elements-of-desert-ar chitecture-an-oasis-in-india/ https://www.theplan.it/eng/award-2022-Education/nokh a-village-school-reviving-a-traditional-way-of-building-s anjay-puri-architects https://sanjaypuriarchitects.com/architecture/education /learning-curves-raipur/ https://b10.beauty/primary-school-design-concepts