Architecture 207b

Intent: provide a strong graphics background in both two and three dimensions while also learning about a significant building in the history of architecture

Architecture 207b is a continuation of Architecture 207a although it is often taken separately by those with previous computer background. Some students will place out of both Architecture 207a and 207b and take the advanced course, Architecture 407 immediately.

Architecture 207b meets the second half of the semester, for 7 1/2 weeks. Whereas Architecture 207a is mainly taught on the Macintosh, both Macs and PCs are used in this class with special attention given to moving files between platforms and programs.

The course is in two parts, a weekly lecture and a weekly hands-on laboratory section. The lectures stress strongly the fundamentals of computer graphics, both two and three dimensional including computer-aided drafting, output devices, the importance of library elements, raster versus vector graphics, geometric modeling in three-dimensions, rendering principles, file transfer, the Web, and an introduction to animation.

The weekly homework assignments stress the role of graphics applications in architecture. Typically the students are assigned a building (Fall 1996, each was assigned a different skyscraper). They research the building, draw a floor plan (AutoCAD), dimensioned elevation or section (AutoCAD), build a three-dimensional model (form.Z), render with materials and shadows (RenderZone, form.Z), and produce a page in html attached to their Web home page that shows the plan, elevation, 3D views, and description of their building.

Several students continue with Architecture 407 in a later semester.