School of Building Arts

The study of architectural history in Savannah informs how we understand and value the significance of the built world and our home environments. In this course, students study Savannah and the surrounding region which offer a case study for broader themes of urban renewal and historic preservation. Through observation, analysis, and readings, students identify local characteristics and broad historical frameworks that create built environments.

Before 1900, rapidly changing cultural, social, and economic forces transformed the development of the built environment. Students examine how enlightenment philosophy, industrialization, urbanization, nationalism, social and political revolution, stylistic experimentation, and technological innovation influenced the evolution of architectural theory and practice.

Competing concepts of modernity influenced the theory, practice, and production of architecture and urbanism from the late 19th century to the present day. Students examine the work of celebrated architects and avant-garde movements, while exploring the social, economic, and environmental factors that shaped architecture and architectural discourse.

The history of architecture and urbanism must consider how cultural, religious, and philosophical values and physical and social contexts greatly affect built form. Using a comparative approach, this course surveys the diverse architecture and urban habitations of China, Japan, Africa, India, the Muslim world, and the native cultures of the Americas from the origins of human settlements to the emergence of modern colonialism.

Sir Christopher Wren once remarked that architecture aims at the eternal. Renaissance architects pursued this goal through the vehicle of an ancient and compelling language of architecture known as the classical. This course examines the development of that language in buildings, designs, city plans and architectural theories from 15th-century Florence to 18th-century England. Social, political and religious contexts of Renaissance and Baroque architecture are given special consideration.

Diverse peoples from across the globe have shaped modern architecture, landscape and urban form, reflecting their distinctive settings as well as particular social and cultural practices. This course utilizes case studies and comparative analysis to provide detailed engagement with iconic as well as more regional works, revealing a nuanced appreciation of how built form reflects dynamic technological, economic, and political influences.

The ancient Greeks and Romans developed a range of building types to accommodate their religious, political, and social practices. In this course, students approach ancient Greek and Roman architecture by examining the intended use of these structures as related to architectural form, decoration, and location. Emphasis is placed on the value of primary sources and archaeological material in enriching the understanding of built form during these eras.

The architecture of the medieval period resulted from diverse cultural forces within the Latin Christian West, the Byzantine Christian East, and the Islamic Mediterranean. In this course, students explore themes such as the role of classical inspiration, cross-cultural influence and regionalism, function and audience, integral architectural decoration, and construction methods and structure.

The art and architecture of the medieval Islamic world reflects a thousand years of evolution. In this course, students explore a range of cultures and architecture regionally and chronologically from the large empires of the Umayyads and Abbasids to the smaller successor states in Islamic Spain, sub-Saharan Africa, and Mughal India. Students examine differences and continuities across diverse built environments, with attention to the origins and nature of Islamic religion and the development of a unique Arab-Muslim civilization.

Journey through the architectural heritage and urban development across Asia, exploring how religion, politics, and cultural values have shaped diverse built environments throughout history. In this course, students analyze distinctive architectural styles, urban planning approaches, and living patterns while developing research skills to interpret these spaces.

What is a city? This basic yet baffling question necessarily underlies all attempts to build cities. Students in this course survey the history of urban form as it relates to changing ideas about the nature and purpose of the city from its earliest manifestations in ancient Mesopotamia to the globalized cities of today.

In its totality, the continent of Africa encompasses a diverse, yet interconnected geographical, cultural, and historical context which is expressed through its indigenous arts, architectural traditions, and cities. A global and critical perspective leads students to consider how this continuity begins in the ancient world with the development of the civilizations of Egypt, Kush, and Aksum, continuing throughout the medieval period with the rise of kingdoms and trading empires in both East and West Africa, and enduring into colonial times.

Taught at SCAD Lacoste, this course explores the many ways in which different cultures have approached built form over the centuries in this region of France. Through research and on-site analysis at various locations, students cultivate a comprehensive understanding of the history, style, building materials and construction methods associated with the built environment of Provence.

Tied to the rise of cities in Western Europe, the art and architecture of the late Middle Ages ushered in new directions for the arts. In this course, students focus on the development of Gothic architecture, sculpture, and stained glass from the early 12th to the late 14th centuries as well as manuscript illumination, metal work, and ivory carving. Students explore selected readings from original sources with an emphasis placed on social context.

The Hanging Gardens of Babylon, the Alhambra, Versailles, Monticello, and Fallingwater are all products of a restless longing for a peaceful and contemplative life in the country where art and nature coexist in ideal harmony. In this course, students explore the architectural and social history of country houses, villas, and gardens from antiquity to the 21st century. Students focus on garden literature, landscape theory, the rise of public parks, and the development of suburbia.

Building traditions from around the world reveal the connection between architectural forms and the societies that created them. In this course, students explore vernacular architectural traditions from a global perspective through the broad ranging, yet selective, study of specific cultures and regions. Students focus on domestic architecture and settlement forms while also addressing non-residential vernacular structures as well.

Virtual environments have been used to transport, educate, and entertain for millennia. Students explore a variety of historical precedents, philosophical discourses, and scientific studies on virtual environments to understand the contextual significance and rich potential they offer designers today. Students utilize digital tools, such as online databases and image resources, to demonstrate advanced research techniques in the field of architectural history.

This course introduces students to a wide range of research resources and the issues they raise. Attention is given to differing versions of each type of historical documentation and how that type has evolved over time. Textual accounts, maps, architectural drawings, field study, photographs, legal documents are among the forms of documentation examined. As much as possible, attention is given to actual documents through discussions and field workshops in libraries and archives.

Architecture does not exist apart from theory; that is, the act of building is necessarily preceded by thinking about building. Architectural criticism, likewise, depends on theoretical discourse. In this course, students focus on the theory and criticism of architecture from antiquity to the present.

Whether it is the Hearst Castle, the Theme Building at Los Angeles International Airport, or the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the contributions of architects from marginalized groups have largely been overlooked in the canon of architectural history. In this seminar, students examine and discuss the achievements of women and minority architects within their social and historical contexts.

Built environments help construct, maintain and even destroy many aspects of human identity, including gender. This seminar course examines how issues of gender have shaped built environments in the West from early historical times to the present. It focuses primarily on the manner in which architecture and space have contributed to social, cultural and political relations predicated on gender. This course challenges students to strengthen their research, critical thinking and leadership skills.

Cities of the Muslim world are an urban phenomenon whose development, planning principles, morphology and institutions reflect fundamental principles related to Islamic religious beliefs and practices. This seminar explores the influence of local cultural developments on Islamic urban forms throughout the medieval Muslim world, from Spain to India and sub-Saharan Africa.

Throughout history, social, political and economic power relations have shaped the built environment. This seminar explores how power impacts the human experience of architecture and urbanism within a range of scales, building types, and social and cultural contexts. Extensive readings, class discussions and presentations challenge students to develop critical thinking and communication skills.

Cultural traditions in geographic regions across the continent gave form to the diverse American landscapes of everyday homes, businesses, places of recreation, and transportation that shape our daily lives. In this course, students consider these "ordinary" places, the methods used in recognizing and defining them, and how such landscapes represent the culture of ordinary people in all their diversity of ethnicity, age, gender, and economic standing.

Native American architectural traditions across the Americas reveal sophisticated responses to landscape, climate, and cultural needs. In this course, students analyze settlement patterns, building techniques, and ritual spaces while developing critical research skills. Through comparative study of different regions and periods, students gain a deeper understanding of Native American architectural traditions and their enduring significance.

The explosive growth and transformation of the modern city has inspired its frequent representation in photography, cinema, television, and other media, influencing how we view and understand modern urban life. In this seminar, students examine and discuss the different facets of the city over time, including industrialization and development, suburbanization, race, poverty, and even dreams of future cities as they are seen through a variety of modern media.

Students participate in on-location study of the built environment, investigating historical processes in their physical context. Through a synthesis of analysis, research and field study, students examine urban form, landscapes and building culture from historical, theoretical, aesthetic and practical points of view.

Shakespeare's famous observation about the world being a stage rings true for all who study the history of architecture and urbanism. Buildings, streets and squares are sets for the history of the theater, not just plays, but civic and religious ceremonies, festivals and political demonstrations. This course examines the history of theatricality by exploring the city as a stage and the stage as a city.

Students in this course undertake a field assignment under the supervision of a faculty member.

Architectural history seniors are required to complete a thesis document that demonstrates extensive research, historical awareness, clear organization and effective writing skills. Under the guidance of a faculty member and involving peer critique, students hone their ability to complete an advanced research paper.

This course traces the evolution of modern architectural design from the mid-18th century to the present, addressing major works of architecture, urban design, landscape design and architectural theory. Attention is given to the emergence of new building typologies, the phases of historicism, the impact of new technology and materials, and the changing concepts of modernity.

Involving detective work, problem solving, and critical analysis, research relies on multiple resources and evaluating the issues they raise. This seminar focuses on diverse types of primary and secondary sources that inform our understanding of built environments. Attention is given to how historical documentation evolved over time and the historical contexts that defined their creation.

Since the ancient world, architects and theorists have attempted to conceptualize the essence of architecture. In this course, students focus on significant theoretical texts in the history of architecture from antiquity to the present. Students assess the critical tradition while analyzing and conceptualizing architectural principles.

Students in this course are introduced to methods of research and analysis and to key texts that have shaped the discipline of architectural history over time. Specific topics addressed include the nature of history, the nature of architectural history, style, formal analysis, iconography and symbolism, and a variety of approaches embracing technological, political, economic and social aspects of the built environment.

Within histories of modern architecture, the designs of women and minority architects have largely been overlooked, yet their contributions are impressive. Students in this course investigate the achievements of notable architects within social, historical, and theoretical contexts in order to understand the gendered or racial biases that have framed architectural production. Students demonstrate an advanced understanding of diversity in architecture through scholarly presentations and professional course projects.

Medieval architecture was shaped by diverse cultural forces in the Latin Christian West, the Byzantine Christian East and the Islamic Mediterranean. Emphasizing a contextual approach, themes addressed include the role of classical inspiration, cross-cultural influence and regionalism, function and audience, integral architectural decoration and construction methods and structure.

The ancient cultures of the Mediterranean basin developed a range of building types and urban plans to frame different aspects of public and private life. This course explores how the cultures of the ancient Near East, Egypt, Greece and Rome used built form to serve religious, social and political ideologies. Significant focus is placed on identifying, understanding and analyzing the various components of context.

Students delve into analysis of the Gothic period, from the early 12th century to the later 13th century. The course focuses on the development of Gothic architecture, sculpture and stained glass and also encompasses manuscript illumination, metal work and ivory carving. The social context of the monuments is explored through selected readings from original sources.

Without financial support, built environments could not exist. This seminar analyzes the often-hidden economic conditions that shape the creation of architecture and the ever-changing needs of the building cultures of the built environment. Students critique issues relating to the global economy and their impact on architecture and the urban conditions of the modern world.

From the oldest cities of ancient Mesopotamia to contemporary urban landscapes, the history of urban form reflects remarkable continuities and dramatic innovations. Students explore how architecture, public space, city planning, and public works are considered in relation to the social, political, economic, and religious contexts of urban form. Students use advanced research methods to build critical awareness of the historic and cultural impacts on urban design.

This course examines the evolution of art and architecture in the medieval Islamic world using a chronological and regional approach, ranging from the large unified empires of the Umayyads and Abbasids to the smaller successor states in Islamic Spain, sub-Saharan Africa and Mughal India. The course investigates the origins and nature of Islamic religion and culture and introduces students to the development of a unique Arab-Muslim civilization.

This course explores the indigenous art, architecture and cities of Africa, following a chronological and regional approach, which introduces the geography, cultures and history of the African continent as a whole. The goal is to consider Africa not as a region of cultural unity, but rather as an interconnected territory with a long and varied history that has given birth to a variety of creative expressions and artistic achievements. These expressions and achievements begin in the ancient world with the development of urban civilizations in Egypt, Nubia, Kush and Aksum; continue into medieval times with the rise of kingdoms and trading empires in both East and West Africa; and continue into colonial times.

The Islamic city is a unique urban phenomenon within the medieval world, with a distinctive development, morphology, and institutions. This seminar explores the connection between the religion of Islam and the creation of fundamental urban planning principles found throughout the Islamic world. Attention is given to the relationship of regionalism and local cultural influences on the development of specific building types and forms, from Islamic Spain to India to sub-Saharan Africa.

The age-old impulse to build a villa--a home away from home set in a garden--is a fundamentally paradoxical one. In this course, students seek to discover why we seek such places, what ideals these garden villas represent, and how designers, architects, and landscape architects have addressed these constructed experiences for centuries. Students consider historic villas, gardens, and literary texts as ideas and spaces in their contexts.

Social, political, and economic power relations have shaped the built environment and the experience of it throughout history. This seminar explores the many ways that power operates within a range of scales, building types, and social contexts including urban design, public institutions, commemorative monuments, and corporate buildings.

The American landscapes of everyday homes, businesses, places of recreation, and transportation represent deep cultural and regional traditions that shape our daily lives. In this course, students analyze these seemingly ordinary places, question the methods used in recognizing and defining them, and interpret how such landscapes shape the culture of ordinary people in all their diversity of ethnicity, age, gender, and economic standing.

Students explore vernacular architectural traditions from a global perspective as a broad-ranging, yet selective study of specific cultures and regions. The primary focus of the course is on domestic architecture and settlement forms, and also includes some vernacular religious and ceremonial structures. Through this course, students acquire an appreciation of the range of building traditions found around the world, and explore the connection between vernacular architectural forms and the societies that created them.

Native American architectural traditions across the Americas reveal sophisticated responses to landscape, climate, and cultural needs. In this course, students examine how agricultural practices, cosmological beliefs, and ritual traditions shaped diverse built environments throughout history. Through advanced research methodologies, students analyze architectural and urban patterns while developing critical perspectives on indigenous spatial practices and cultural landscapes.

The parallel development of the modern city and contemporary media technologies has inspired representations of the city in photography, cinema, television, and associated media, profoundly impacting our understanding of the ever-changing nature of urban form and urban life. In this course, students focus on the cultural forces that shaped the relationship between cities and media. Students also analyze the psychological and sociological effects that media has on our perceptions and understanding of the city.

Students participate in on-location study of the built environment, investigating historical processes in their physical context. Through a synthesis of analysis, critique, research and field study, students explore urban form, landscapes and building culture from historical, theoretical, aesthetic and practical points of view.

Shaped by immigration, inherited traditions, and homegrown innovations, the built environment of America is a diverse cultural landscape. In this course, students analyze how settlement patterns, domesticity, industrialization, urbanization, and modernization affected the development and evolution of uniquely American architectural and urban forms, from the pre-Colonial era to the present.

The city has been and continues to be a literal and metaphorical stage for theatrical performance in its many guises: festivals; processions; ritualized acts of justice, inauguration and triumph; games; impromptu street performance; and political demonstrations. This course examines forms of theatricality in the life and design of cities as well as the architecture of purpose-built theaters from antiquity to the present day.

Savannah’s urban plan and its rich architectural fabric offer an incomparable laboratory for the study of architectural and urban history. This course explores and analyzes Savannah’s urban plan, buildings and landscape features in the context of the social, political, religious and environmental factors that shaped them. Certain aspects of Savannah’s history will be chosen for close investigation each quarter.

Since Ancient Egypt, virtual spaces have been used to transport, educate and entertain. Philosophical discourses and scientific studies of virtual environments provide the framework for analyzing a broad range of historical precedents. Emphasis is placed on understanding the contextual significance of virtual spaces and evaluating the rich potential they offer designers today.

Students in this course undertake a field assignment under the supervision of a faculty member.

Students in this course undertake a teaching assignment under the supervision of a faculty member.

Architectural history graduate students are required to complete a thesis and produce an in-depth research paper under the guidance of a faculty member. Peer critique, strong methodological skills, original ideas, clear organization and thorough research are emphasized with attention on developing the thesis for professional presentation and publication.

Architecture shapes how we experience and interact with the built environment. In this course, students explore essential concepts of spatial organization, proportion, and hierarchy through analysis of architectural precedent. By examining key architectural elements and their relationships, students develop critical design thinking skills and a vocabulary for creating intentional, meaningful spaces. Prerequisites(s): None.

Buildings are complex organisms where mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and structural systems work in concert to create functional spaces. This course provides essential knowledge in building systems, equipping students to make informed decisions that enhance both the user experience and the building's overall architectural design.

Design can shape meaningful human experiences within the built environment. This studio focuses on human-centered design principles, exploring how physical, cognitive, and emotional needs inform architectural decisions. Through projects, observation, and diverse exercises, students learn to create functional, inclusive environments that prioritize universal design, accessibility, and spatial adaptability.

Basic principles of strength of materials, applied mechanics and structural theory are used for design and analysis of simple frames and simple beams for wood and steel building structures.

What is placemaking? This course explores the relationship between architecture and its context, emphasizing the creation of spaces that foster identity and connection. Through site analysis, cultural research, and environmental studies, students create context-sensitive solutions that reflect the character of their environment.

Architecture comes to life at the intersection of storytelling and spatial experience. Students develop architectural proposals that evoke emotion, memory, and imagination through narrative-driven design. Projects emphasize how form, materiality, and spatial sequencing contribute to intentionally designed environments.

Advanced Building Systems expands upon the essential knowledge established in Introduction to Building Systems. Through lectures and exercises, students will develop an applied understanding of high-performance systems, advanced lighting and electrical strategies, water conservation techniques, acoustics, and smart building technologies.

Collaboration is at the heart of architectural design. This course emphasizes the collaborative nature of architectural practice, modeled after real-world interdisciplinary teamwork. Students engage in design processes focused on functionality, sustainability, and community engagement within the built environment.

In this course, students explore parametric and generative modeling through associative geometry using advanced applications in building design. The course focuses on simulating behavioral and formal responses to design constraints and limits and rules as a framework for understanding their implications as applied to building form. These responses range from conceptual form-finding strategies to structure and envelope systems.

Immersing students in the cutting-edge of architectural innovation, this studio is where technology, creativity, and experimentation converge to shape the future of design. Students tackle global challenges as they envision sustainable, inclusive, and future-forward architectural solutions.

In this studio course, students explore traditional and contemporary methods of advanced graphic presentations as a means of communication in architectural design.

In this culminating studio, architecture students synthesize designs into fully developed architectural proposals. Students focus on tectonic articulation, performance, and constructability, developing comprehensive design solutions that align spatial composition, technical performance, and user-centered connections. This course integrates human experience, placemaking, narrative, collaboration, and innovation into a holistic approach.

This course teaches site development techniques from the conception of a project through to the final site plan. The course begins with site selection and building location and then progresses through sediment and erosion control measures, building access, parking, ADA requirements, storm water runoff and landscaping.

The seminar investigates the city as a specific power to affect people, materials and the relationships between the two. Use, form and social values of the city are analyzed to decipher relationships between morphology and the logic of change. Because classical urban studies involve accurate transpositions of the city by means of either physical or socio-economic descriptions, both physical and socio-economic factors are integrated into the course.

Internships offer students valuable opportunities to work in a professional environment and gain firsthand experience to help them prepare for careers. In an approved internship setting, a student typically spends one quarter working with an on-site professional supervisor and a faculty internship supervisor to achieve specific goals and objectives related to the program of study.

Through a study of underlying principles and the relationship of various forces, students in this course investigate the fundamental mathematical and physics problem-solving methods required for the field of architecture. Students analyze structural mechanics, cross-sectional properties, light, sound, hydrostatics, fluid flow, thermodynamics and electricity to learn to calculate a balance between systems of equilibrium, inertia, humidity and human comfort.

The study of construction methods continues to evolve as new building codes, industry standards and programmatic requirements influence the selection of both structural and nonstructural elements in building construction systems. In this course, students investigate emerging technologies, materials, assemblies and construction detailing to better understand the relationship between drawings, specifications and the real-world construction environment.

This course is designed to develop students' abilities to create meaningful architectural design solutions. The course concentrates on the ways in which basic human factors affect and inform architectural design. Through lectures and design projects, students consider behavioral aspects that affect design and the interrelationship of form, space and human experience.

DesignBuild is an interdisciplinary collaboration experience in which students use design ideation, fabrication techniques, and construction practices to develop architectural projects. DesignBuild emphasizes experiential learning and critical problem-solving, enhancing technical skills and design thinking to prepare students for professional practice in architecture.

This course presents a study of professionalism and ethics as they relate to design professionals. Students conduct detailed analysis of professional practices, including office and corporate structure, administration, public and client relations, consultant and contractor relations, project administration and procedures, and compensation.

Students in this course explore advanced parametric design and generative modeling through associative geometry using advanced applications for building design. The course focuses on simulating behavioral and formal responses to design constraints, limits and rules as a framework for understanding their implications as applied to structural and envelope systems.

This studio course investigates sustainable strategies for the neighborhood, city and mega-city. Students consider historical patterns of urban settlement and form-making, contemporary forces impacting cities worldwide, and the legal and financial framework of urban development retrofitting the city for ecological solutions. This study includes development of strategies ranging from publicly funded infrastructure, including application of landscape, through privately funded development of public space. Student teams analyze and diagram both physical and social contexts to develop typologies and plan concepts portrayed through master plan and perspective scenarios.

In this course, students are expected to solve complex structural problems and make informed selections from structural system alternatives. Structural problems involve steel and reinforced concrete systems in large, complex and/or multistory buildings. Special emphasis is given to designing structures to withstand lateral forces.

Students are introduced to the study of exterior spaces as they relate to and complement building design. Through lectures, studio problems and field trips, the course explores the historical background of landscape design, theory, site analysis, environmental issues and plant materials.

This studio course emphasizes holistic and integral architectural design to engage students in a systems thinking approach that meets the needs of both the user and the contexts in which designs are situated. Synthesizing program research and site analysis, students arrive at a theoretical design construct that responds to user and regulatory requirements, site conditions, and universal design. Students also consider the measurable environmental impacts of their design decisions as they create schematic designs.

This course teaches advanced site development techniques and design from the conception of a project through to the final comprehensive site plan. The course begins with site selection and building location and then progresses through the design and calculations needed for sediment and erosion control measures, building access, parking, ADA requirements, storm water runoff, and landscaping.

This course leads students into an in-depth study of a variety of structural systems and gives them tools to help them select appropriate systems for their designs. Students learn how to approximate structural member sizes and gain a broad understanding of material behavior to prepare them to make structural design decisions.

In this studio, students enact the imagination and innovation required to bring technical resolution to architectural design constructs developed in ARCH 727 Graduate Architecture Studio II: Comprehensive Design and Programming. Through their design decisions, students demonstrate the integration of building envelope systems and assemblies, structural systems, environmental control systems, life safety systems, and the measurable outcomes of building performance.

This seminar course serves as a workshop for focused thesis topic formulation and development through an investigation documented in an in-depth formal research paper. This research paper is incorporated into the thesis text.

This studio course centers on a variety of topics within or related to the School of Building Arts. The focus studio builds upon selected student electives in architectural history, digital design, design management, historic preservation, interior design, sustainability, architectural history or urban design. Possible focus areas for the studio may include architecture and topics from students’ selected area of elective coursework.

This course provides an overview of critical developments in sustainable building design strategies by examining environmental problems and possible solutions through design. Readings, lectures, guest speaker presentations and class discussion introduce students to the needs and possibilities of being effective green builders and architects.

This seminar examines pressing contemporary technological, cultural, theoretical and economically driven issues relevant to urban design and development. Emerging issues for the 21st century include the sociological impact and infrastructure needs attendant to vast ethnic migrations, the rapid growth and sprawl of mega cities, and the creation of new cities.

This course explores advanced architecture design expression and presentation. It examines the traditional methods of architectural graphics and visual communication and the digital methods of computer aided architectural design. This course includes traditional design presentation techniques and advanced digital presentation with different media.

Gaining an understanding of various cultures’ political, economic and professional aspirations and constraints is vital to succeeding as an architect, interior designer or historic preservationist in today’s professional climate. This course prepares students to work in a global practice through the development of international marketplace and business skills, and a refinement of cultural knowledge and sensitivity.

Students in this course undertake a field assignment under the supervision of a faculty member.

Students in this course undertake a teaching assignment under the supervision of a faculty member.

This studio course is the first part of the two-quarter long architectural design thesis. Students select a topic and prototype, which has been approved by the thesis committee prior to the beginning of this course. The content, scheduling and college requirements for the architecture thesis are delineated in the thesis guidelines. This course is dedicated to development of the concept, context, site, program and schematic design of the architectural design thesis. Students entering this course must have completed a research paper in support of the thesis premise and context.

This studio course is the second of a two-quarter long architectural design thesis. The content, scheduling and college requirements for the architecture thesis are delineated in the thesis guidelines. Prior to the beginning of this studio, students must have developed an architectural project to the schematic design level. This studio is directed to refinement, detailed design development, presentation and exhibition of the architectural thesis design.

Graphic representation conveys conceptual ideas and built work through both traditional and innovative visual approaches. In this course, students build upon and strengthen foundational skills, leading to visual narratives that effectively convey spatial experiences and material qualities. Through hands-on exploration of analog and digital tools, students develop skills in sketching, diagramming, and rendering with an emphasis on perspective, line work, shading, and composition.

This course emphasizes managing and communicating design data, tools and presentation information during the three phases of the design process: programmatic design, schematic design, and design development. Students utilize several 3D design tools. In addition, desktop publishing, Web authoring, rendering tools, digital manipulation tools, and digital cameras enable students to effectively communicate form and space related to either the building arts or the product-based design professions.

This course explores the use of visualization and 3D design-based software, focusing on their applications within the building arts. Students are expected to gain an in-depth knowledge of effective communication formats such as raster graphics for the presentation of form and space.

Students in this course use advanced Building Information Modeling techniques to explore a variety of interior design related issues that build on fundamental tools learned in prerequisite coursework. Emphasis is placed on the design tools, documentation and management of a project to give students an understanding of workflow strategies associated with current software technology.

This course teaches principles of practice and project management related to product and/or building documentation. Students apply CAD to produce the electronic documentation of product, form and space that is utilized by the building and product design professions for 3D construction documents.

This course teaches fundamental principles of digital prototyping and fabrication methods for architecture and building. It focuses on the inherent value of digital prototypes to evaluate the viability and performance of the design intent with respect to material selection and method of assembly. The course also explores techniques of digital fabrication and the implications on assembly. Students use a variety of digital techniques to evaluate, document, fabricate and assemble a series of architectural components at various scales and using different materials.

This course explores the methodology involved in applying electronic simulation and communication tools to the design process. Students are expected to learn in-depth techniques for 3D modeling, applied knowledge on simulation-orientated rendering and animation tools, and digital image manipulation tools. Students produce presentations for the three phases of an electronic design process—programmatic, schematic, and design development.

This course initiates advanced study of computer-aided design as it relates to the building design professions. The course covers the advanced application and utilization of network operating systems, the digital creation and manipulation of scanned images, 2D drafting, and 3D modeling to visually communicate building-oriented form.

This course begins the advanced study of computer aided design through the management and communication of design data, as well as tools and presentation information utilized in the three phases of the design process: programmatic design, schematic design and design development. Students gain experience and proficiency with multiple 3D digital design, rendering and digital manipulation programs to visually communicate form and space as related to the building design or product-based design professions.

In this course, students focus on integrating electronic visualization tools to communicate and promote individual design concepts and approaches. The tools applied include imaging, rendering and image manipulations. Students also transfer their designs to different output media.

This course provides experience with the use of computers for assessment and representation of the environmental landscape, as applications to urban design and development through appropriate systems and software. Data collection, assessment and synthesis are incorporated as a component of the urban design and development process.

Students apply the principles of practice and project management regarding product and/or building documentation in this course. By utilizing Building Information Modeling software, students produce documentation of both construction processes and design details utilized within the building and product design practices. Students also master evaluating documentation through an advanced focus on assessment and analysis.

This course teaches graduate students the fundamental principles of advanced digital prototyping and fabrication methods for architecture and building. It focuses on the inherent value of digital prototypes to evaluate the viability and performance of the design intent with respect to material selection and method of assembly. In addition, the course explores higher techniques of digital fabrication and the implications on assembly. Students use a variety of digital techniques to evaluate, document, fabricate and assemble series of advanced architectural components at various scales and with different materials.

This course explores the methodology involved in applying electronic simulation and communication tools to the design process. Students are expected to learn in-depth techniques for 3D modeling, applied knowledge on simulation-orientated rendering and animation tools and digital image manipulation tools. Students produce presentations for the three phases of an electronic design process—programmatic, schematic and design development.

This course focuses on the integration of design and fabrication skills necessary to complete an original project. The course covers the properties and working characteristics of hand tool use, joinery techniques and safe machine operations in the use of materials appropriate to furniture design.

This course introduces students to the field of furniture design. Lectures, class discussions and exercises provide the foundation to engage the furniture design process and the communication and presentation of ideas through diverse projects.

In this course, students synthesize their design and fabrication skills. The course explores the conceptual, aesthetic and structural issues involved with the design and construction of a project utilizing a range of techniques and commonly used furniture materials.

Understanding the composition and quality of spaces in which humans work, interact, play, live and utilize their furniture is the basis of this course. Lectures, exercises and case studies provide students an appreciation of the complexities and nuances of the built environment towards a more meaningful and responsible furniture design process.

A skilled furniture designer is familiar with the tools and techniques appropriate to a variety of materials, including metals. Students explore metal manipulation, machine operation and safety, proper use of hand tools, metal identification and cold assembly techniques in a variety of fabrication projects. This knowledge expands design and production possibilities, preparing students to meet the demands of the profession.

Through lectures, studio assignments and research, students explore traditional and contemporary materials and manufacturing methods unique to the furnishings industry as well as those common in other fields. Students are introduced to the technical and practical considerations that influence the choices of material and production. Emphasis is placed on the relationship between the designer and manufacturer.

Through a series of lectures and seminars, this course enables students to identify, challenge and explore new concepts and design competencies within the parameters of markets and opportunities. The course also addresses trends and forecasting, patterns of domestic competition, practices in international import and export, packaging and transport of products. Students are exposed to case studies covering customer buying systems and hierarchies of needs, behavioral tendencies, cultural diversities, price determinants and market cost factors.

The complex process of furniture design for the market is examined and explored, addressing issues of function, structure, aesthetics, context and culture. The use of 2D and 3D visualization tools is instrumental as students develop and resolve their design solutions.

This course is an introduction to plastics as a material for design and manufacture. Through lectures, demonstrations and small-scale exercises and projects, students become familiar with the vocabulary of plastics and plastics design. The course covers basic design principles, issues in plastics, design protocols, key manufacturing processes and fabrication techniques specific to designing for plastics.

This course gives the students an understanding of specific design proponents, movements and historical trajectories relevant to furniture design, in a manner that informs and complements their design process. The course draws upon historical lineage and identifies the predominant civilizations throughout history and the contribution they have made to furniture design. This course seeks to trace the dominant furniture paradigms and historical shifts that have occurred from prehistory up to the 21st century. Specific emphasis is placed on theoretical and ideological developments surrounding the age or era in which such developments occurred, and study is focused on the effects of such historical events, shifts and consequences.

Through this course, students become proficient in industry-standard modeling software applications, and how they allow for quick, accurate and transformable visualization of designs to provide a tool to facilitate communication between designer, engineer and client.

In this course, students synthesize their design and fabrication skills. The course explores the conceptual, aesthetic and structural issues involved with the design and construction of a project utilizing various wood bending techniques.

This course explores design, construction and packaging issues associated with the production of accessories for the living environment. Students design, develop and fabricate a product with a focus on efficient production strategies and appropriate integration of assembly processes, including the potential use of various rapid prototyping technologies.

Through a series of lectures, demonstrations, assignments and projects, students gain knowledge and experience with the materials, equipment and techniques involved in the production of soft furnishings for a variety of functional and aesthetic purposes. The students are exposed to sewing technology, patternmaking, structural design and upholstery techniques that provide the parameters for students to conceptualize, explore, design and produce a full-scale prototype.

This course prepares students to enter the career field of furniture design. Topics include developing professional contacts, interviewing skills, portfolios and refined résumés.

Research, design and preparation for prototyping are the focus of this course. It is intended to provide students with the opportunity to create the necessary documents and visual communication, making prototype execution feasible. Students generate concepts within the context of a directed project and prepare the necessary documents for execution of a prototype in later courses.

While applying their accumulated experience, knowledge and skills in a directed design project, students demonstrate their command of the design process, process documentation and presentation of a design project.

This course provides the student the opportunity to propose and manage a faculty approved self-initiated design project with appropriate focus, inquiry, documentation, execution and presentation.

Internships offer students valuable opportunities to work in a professional environment and gain firsthand experience to help them prepare for careers. In an approved internship setting, a student typically spends one quarter working with an on-site professional supervisor and a faculty internship supervisor to achieve specific goals and objectives related to the program of study.

This course focuses on sponsored projects with the SCAD furniture design program and various industry partners. Students are exposed to the challenges of working for real clients to solve current problems in the furniture design field. Students employ both traditional and digital tools while working within a team environment to create solutions to meet project objectives and exceed client needs within this project-driven studio.

Plastics and plastics processes are covered in the context of a wide range of applications and within a variety of industries. Through lectures, case studies, demonstrations, and small-scale exercises and projects, students become familiar with the vocabulary of plastics and plastics design. Criteria for the design of plastic components and identification of processing methods are discussed and applied.

Through this course, students become proficient in industry-standard modeling software applications and how they allow for quick, accurate and transformable visualization of designs as a tool to facilitate communication between designer, engineer and client.

Through reading, writing and discussion, students explore the value of design and the role of furniture in our culture. With subtopics approaching sustainability, design methodology and ethics, among others, students examine contemporary discourse and establish their own design philosophy.

Safe and proper use of studio fabrication equipment specific to and essential in the construction of furniture is covered in this course. Skills acquired in this course are instrumental to the effective production of furniture forms whether for testing, evaluation, presentation or exhibition. Students become familiar with and experience key processes involved in fabricating furniture artifacts large or small, providing the foundation for success in subsequent studios.

In this course, students acquire and integrate the knowledge and practice of bending wood as it applies to furniture and accessories.

Presented in a manner that informs and complements their design intentions, innovative interventions and creative intelligence, this course provides students an understanding of major design proponents, movements and historical trajectories relevant to furniture design. The course draws upon the historical lineage of furniture design and identifies the predominant breakthroughs, materials and techniques throughout history, with specific emphasis on theoretical and ideological developments and the effects of such historical events.

Students focus on a design project that considers the human experience with furniture in the built environment. The student applies acquired skills and knowledge toward solving a multifaceted furniture design problem of either a predetermined or proposed context. Students develop comprehensive documentation of sources, analysis and synthesis that supports the intended design solution and demonstrates an understanding of material, functional and aesthetic requirements in the execution of the course project.

As the result of extensive research, students demonstrate the ability to pursue an inclusive concept development process, including the core components of research methodology, analysis and material integration. The process culminates in a written statement for presentation to the M.F.A. 45-hour review and a narrative draft to accompany a body of work.

Students focus on a design project integrating research, content and the iterative process as applied toward the furniture form and its role in the built environment and market. Students create thorough documentation supporting and advancing design solutions and their feasibility relative to established design goals. Considerations of function and the material and technical requirements suggested by the design are addressed.

All M.A. students in furniture design are required to complete a final portfolio project that represents the culmination of their academic program.

Application of learned research methodologies and demonstration of in-depth knowledge on furniture design form the basis for this course. Students plan and undertake the first phase of the intended body of work for their graduate project, leading to fully realized forms and the accompanying support documentation.

In this course, students practice core and advanced processes in the exploration of metal as a machine and fabrication medium. Machine and material safety are integrated with a focus on the proper use of hand tools, metal identification, welding, and cold assembly techniques.

Evaluation, refinement and focus of the topic investigation provide opportunities for the student to build on the first phase of the graduate thesis project. Deeper analysis, investigation and understanding are reflected in the execution, presentation and documentation of the second phase of the graduate project and exhibit planning.

Students acquire knowledge of sewing technology, patternmaking, structural design and upholstery techniques. Students conceptualize, develop, design and execute a soft furnishing ensemble constructed from available and alternative materials applicable to varied aesthetic and functional purpose.

In this course, students prepare to enter their career field. Topics include developing professional contacts, interviewing skills, portfolio and refined résumés. Graduate students develop a comprehensive package to prepare for employment, based on improved skill sets and capabilities. In-class learning is augmented by visiting furniture manufacture and design facilities in the area.

Students in this course undertake a field assignment under the supervision of a faculty member.

Students in this course undertake a teaching assignment under the supervision of a faculty member.

This course focuses on sponsored projects with the SCAD furniture design program and various industry partners. Graduate students are exposed to the challenges of working for real clients to solve current problems in the furniture design field. Students employ both traditional and digital tools while working within a team environment to create solutions that meet project objectives and exceed client needs within this project-driven studio.

As the pinnacle of the furniture design M.F.A. degree program, students complete a graduate-level thesis that presents a mature, resolved body of work, and demonstrates advanced professional competence through mastery of the technical, creative and aesthetic elements of the discipline. Students earning an M.F.A. in furniture design seek creative design solutions by engaging in research and thorough reflection of design opportunity, intent and process, culminating in a thesis that expands the body of knowledge in the field of furniture design.

An introduction to the profession of interior design, this course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the role of the interior designer and the scope of the profession. Lectures, discussions, problem-solving and design application allow the student to explore interior design as both a creative process and a profession.

This course cultivates the ability to develop creative abstract design thinking and translate it into the three-dimensional composition of space and form with a system of formal architectural ordering. The course cultivates design process tools such as diagramming, drawing and model making through a series of design explorations, including abstract ideation, physical embodiment, architectural composition and precedent analysis exercises.

This course, the first in a series of five interior design studio experiences, introduces students to basic interior design principles, theory and conceptual processes. The emphasis is on creating small-scale environments based on the interaction of the individual with the environment.

This course presents a broad study of interior finishes and furnishings. The specification, composition, construction and application/usability of finishes and furnishings are covered. Lectures, demonstrations, projects and field trips promote the development of design ideas related to materials as well as sustainable materials and finishes.

This studio course continues the study of interior design through research, analysis, programming, conceptualization and design of the interior environment. Projects include exercises in spatial organization, anthropometrics and circulation on an increasingly complex scale.

This course offers a comprehensive and concise compendium of the history of interiors from antiquity to present with reference to interiors as a social art, responsive to historical and cultural influences. Design theories and philosophies are explored in reference to their influence on interiors along with the complexity and intricacies of the sensory relationship of humans with interior space over time.

This course explores the use of lighting as a design element in the interior environment. Basics of electricity and electrical distribution systems, function, use and control of light, lighting fixtures, and lighting installation are topics for lecture and discussion. Through demonstrations in the lighting lab, luminaries and lamps are compared with regard to glare, light distribution, intensity, color, color rendition, energy effectiveness and cost.

Through examination of interior building construction materials and systems, this course promotes understanding of the various constructed assemblies, both structural and nonstructural, that combined form complete buildings. Functional and environmental considerations about building technology systems, and the role of interior designers in improving the quality of the built environment, are also covered. Emphasis on the necessary partnership of building technology experts, architects, interior designers, engineers, and clients is integral to the course.

Communication of the design intent through construction documentation is the focus of this studio course. With an emphasis on constructability and integration of electrical, mechanical and code requirements, assigned projects expand student understanding, application and communication of lighting, color, materials, technology and structure through construction documents and specifications.

This studio course provides a collaborative and multidisciplinary structure for the exploration and application of human-centric design methodology in interior environments.

This course provides the opportunity for interior design students to develop a professional working portfolio. Emphasis is placed on organizing a strong body of work, focused on a specific area of expertise dictated by the students’ individual career goals. Presentation options are explored, examined and executed.

This course presents the professionalism and ethics of interior design. Design practice, public and client relations, administration and procedures, and social responsibilities are discussed. Professional qualifications and organizations are covered, and students set personal goals for achievement in the profession.

As the first part of a capstone project, students in this course advance their design skills to meet the challenge of a complex project. Selecting both client and project, students complete an in-depth precedent study, code and building analysis, user assessment, programming, conceptualization, and presentation. Design research methods, innovation, code compliance, sustainability and acoustical comfort are key issues that are addressed.

Internships offer students valuable opportunities to work in a professional environment and gain firsthand experience to help them prepare for careers. In an approved internship setting, a student typically spends one quarter working with an on-site professional supervisor and a faculty internship supervisor to achieve specific goals and objectives related to the program of study.

This course is the second part of a capstone project. Emphasis is on individual competence in interior design development and specification. Students develop the project selected in Studio V, with a focus on choosing, refining and effectively communicating design intent.

The built interior environment comprises multiple interacting elements, including construction, finishes and furnishings. Selecting and specifying the best materials plays an essential role in the successful communication of design concepts. Through lectures, demonstrations and projects, students discover why materials matter in support of design intent and how emerging new materials impact the design of contemporary interior environments.

This course serves as a comprehensive overview of the technical requirements of interior design projects. It emphasizes the critical nature of codes, interior building systems and construction, lighting, interior materials and sustainability as fundamental components of the interior built environment. Course content includes the introduction and application of LEED requirements, custom interior detailing and CSI specifications.

This course reinforces the graphic, technical and digital representation skills and techniques utilized within graduate-level study of interior design. Projects and assignments inform students of the importance of managing and communicating design data, construction documentation and interior detailing. Students explore alternative digital presentation methodologies through various software interfaces.

This course is a precursor to the advanced study of interior design in a studio setting, emphasizing individual competence in the total design process. Projects are structured to emphasize the individual phases of design and culminate in a multi-faceted design solution to serve as an assessment tool for gauging success in the graduate program.

Rendering skills for interior designers are critical in communicating design intent. In this course, students master freehand rendering through analog and digital methods to clearly and expertly communicate innovative solutions, developing the skills necessary for a lifetime of success as design leaders.

From the post-Renaissance to the present, interior design has influenced the world aesthetically, culturally and technologically. This course traces the progression of the philosophies of influential interior design leaders and the evolution of modern design theory. Through advanced research and writing, students connect the history of interior design to contemporary issues and discover how to use contextual knowledge of the industry's past to inform present-day practice.

This seminar course introduces students of diverse backgrounds to interior design as an academic discipline and as a profession. Students explore issues that affect interior design, establish personal goals of achievement and begin to develop a personal philosophy of design.

This course examines the ways in which architects, interior designers and theorists express and conceptualize the spirit of interior design. Readings are drawn from significant work detailing the history of interior design and the role of interior design in the future. Through active participation in discussions, research papers and independent analyses, students are expected to develop skills in analyzing and conceptualizing interior design principles.

This course is an introduction to research methods in design, exploration of history of research methods and contemporary applications.

This course begins the advanced study of interior design in a studio setting through the development and execution of strong design ideas. Projects are structured to emphasize the design process: analyzing, programming, conceptualizing, developing and presenting ideas of a medium level of complexity.

This course continues the advanced study of the interior design process through the development and execution of designs for special populations. Projects are structured to emphasize human factors and the design process.

Understanding and applying the underlying principles of graphic presentation and rendering techniques are the focus of this course. Students explore communication and promote design ideas through the application of perspective drawings of architectural interiors and exteriors. Emphasis is placed on aesthetic concerns and professional presentation techniques.

The focus of this course is on emerging materials that have the potential to be applied in interior design. This course presents an exploratory study of technological advances that have generated new interior materials recently introduced in the market and their impact on global sustainability. Sustainable and intelligent structural materials and finishes are covered. The specification, composition, construction and application/usability of these new interior materials are also covered. Group discussions, presentations, projects and field trips promote the development of design ideas related to new materials.

This course explores the advanced study of lighting as a design element in the interior environment. Electricity, electrical distribution systems, function, use and control of light, lighting fixtures and lighting installation are covered in lectures, discussion and application. Through demonstrations in the lighting lab, luminaries and lamps are compared with regard to glare, light distribution, intensity, color, color rendition, energy effectiveness and cost. Students utilize manufacturer catalogs, computer programs and lighting equipment to design and construct a lighting fixture.

In this course, the complex interaction and impact of the built environment on human behavior is examined through the context of social, behavioral, cultural and environmental variables. Issues of social and cultural context, gender, health and well-being are examined through environmental factors and characteristics of the built environment such as structure type and use, density, zoning, planning, development and transition, and transportation.

In this course, students explore a variety of critical, aesthetic and practical issues relevant to the current practice of interior design. This course employs readings, lectures and discussions to stimulate and refine critical thinking and practical design problem-solving abilities. Collaborative student groups conduct research about a current topic of interest and are responsible for preparing a project and presentation as a focal point for critiques and discussion.

Dedicated to the research of an interior design topic related to one’s personal area of interest, this course is the culmination of the M.A. in interior design degree. Emphasis is placed on multiple communication methods to clearly justify and explain research process and outcomes.

This studio course continues the advanced study of the interior design process through the development and execution of a comprehensive graduate-level design problem. Emphasis is placed on specialized interior environments based on students’ direction and areas of expertise.

This studio course continues the advanced study of the interior design process through the design of multifunction interior environments. Emphasis is placed on the human relationship to the interior environment. Projects are structured to require a high degree of complexity.

This course examines the professional aspects of the practice of interior design including office procedures, business law, contracts, letters of agreement, insurance and liability, as well as interaction with employers, clients and consultants. Emphasis is placed on the principles and ethics of design practice.

This course provides the opportunity for interior design students to develop a professional working portfolio. Emphasis is placed upon organizing a strong body of work focused on a specific area of expertise dictated by the student’s individual career goals. Presentation options are explored, examined and executed.

Students in this course undertake a field assignment under the supervision of a faculty member.

Students in this course undertake a teaching assignment under the supervision of a faculty member.

This studio serves as the first part of a two-studio sequence dedicated to the development and production of an interior design project as the culmination of the M.F.A. course of study. Students are required to develop and submit a programmatic thesis proposal to the thesis committee during the third week of the quarter. Following committee approval, analysis, programming and conceptual design, work begins on the project, with the advice and guidance of faculty. Emphasis is placed on a high degree of complexity and challenge within the design project.

This studio serves as the second part of a two-studio sequence dedicated to the development and production of a major interior design project as the culmination of the M.F.A. course of study. Students continue the design project through the conventional phases of design development, documentation and presentation. A written research component must accompany the drawings, models and other materials submitted for consideration.

This course covers the exploration, development of technique and application of rendering skills for architectural interiors and exteriors, furnishings, accessories and details through a variety of media including pen and ink, color pencil and markers. Emphasis is placed on material simulation and delineation techniques.

Building arts professionals must be competent at utilizing complex graphic representation techniques. This course addresses a wide variety of design representation, as well as teaches drawing as a tool for critical thinking. The nuanced language of three-dimensional design is examined through lectures and studio projects, surveying form and space, including plan/section/elevation, paraline drawing, perspective and rendering.

Students from a variety of disciplines within the School of Building Arts work as a team to research, conceptualize, and develop creative solutions for current design challenges. Specific projects vary from quarter to quarter. [This course may be taken up to three times for credit.]