VIRTUAL: Learning. Life. Work.
Abstract
This study addresses the challenge of integrating Sustainable Architecture principles into student design projects, focusing on the transition from theoretical knowledge in Sustainable Architecture courses to Architectural Design Studios. The necessity for this research arises from the difficulty students face in applying sustainable strategies in design projects, primarily due to a disconnect between theory and practice, compartmentalization of sustainability, limited exploration of advanced strategies, lack of interdisciplinary collaboration, and time constraints in project completion. The aim of this project is to bridge the gap between theoretical understanding and practical application of sustainability in architecture. This involves ensuring a smooth transition between courses, deepening students’ knowledge of sustainable strategies, and promoting sustainability as an integral part of Architectural Design Studio. The methodology involves revising the curriculum and teaching methods, which includes enhancing students’ practical skills, improving proficiency in simulation tools for sustainable design, offering advanced workshops on sustainable strategies, revising the feedback process in design studios, and adjusting project timelines for deeper engagement with sustainability. The anticipated results are an improvement in students’ ability to integrate sustainable practices into their designs. This encompasses a comprehensive understanding of sustainability as a fundamental aspect of design, improved skills in using simulation tools, and a broader exploration of sustainable strategies. The ultimate goal is to cultivate architects who inherently incorporate sustainability into their design philosophy, viewing it not as an add-on but as a core element of their architectural approach.
Dr. Mohammadmehdi Danesh is an Assistant Professor at the University of Hartford, specializing in Sustainable Design, Building Science, and Resilient Buildings. He has previously held positions as an Assistant Professor at South Dakota State University and Keene State College. His expertise lies in teaching courses on Sustainable Design and High-Performance Building, as well as conducting research on optimizing energy performance and promoting natural ventilation in buildings.
Dr. Somaye Seddighikhavidak, an Assistant Professor at South Dakota State University’s School of Design, specializes in architectural space, nomadic space, architectural and urban history, and historic preservation. With a Ph.D. from Texas A&M University, her research delves into the influence of nomadic polytheistic mythologies on architectural experiences. Her interdisciplinary study, rooted in Deleuze and Guattari’s assemblage theory, uncovers intricate dynamics in heritage roles, fostering community engagement and providing insights into heritage conservation and urban evolution.