Department of Architecture

ARC 503
Building Components and Methods IV
ARC 503 | ARC | 1st Semester |  Download Courseware PDF

Course Synopsis

This course explores space structural systems (3- Dimensional structures) in architecture. Form- resistant structures are examined and a distinction is drawn between them and 2-Dimensional structures taught at lower levels. Preliminary discussions are made on construction in mass concrete, reinforced concrete and pre-stressed concrete. The topics examined are Interrelation of technological choices and design, structure in architecture; the challenge of space enclosure and spanning, the relation to architectural form in history; basic modes of load transfer and corresponding elements of structural forms; discussion of physical, structural and form characteristics of a wide variety of structural types. The structural systems are shell structures, space frame, folded plates, suspension structures and pneumatic structures. A non-mathematical intuitive and qualitative approach to architectural structures is used.

ARC 505
History of Architecture IV
ARC 505 | ARC | 1st Semester |  Download Courseware PDF

Course Synopsis

This is a study of the various theoretical propositions that have formed the new Architecture in the West European countries and America. Discussion on the works of various masters such as Le Corbusier, Peter Behrens, Walter Gropius, Mies Van der Rohe and F.L Wright were studied in detail and compared to deepen the understanding of modern trend in architecture. Through examination of of the concepts and theories that surrounds modernism and postmodernism are also given adequate consideration. A critical appraisal of the theory and practise of contemporary architecture in developing countries, current trends and contemporary philosophies of architecture.

ARC 507
Building Services III
ARC 507 | ARC | 1st Semester |  Download Courseware PDF

Course Synopsis

This course intriduces the student to architectural acoustics. Topics covered include basic acoustics, the hearing mechanism, measurement of sound, causes of hearing damage, noise control indoors, noise control outdoors, industrial noise control, engineering noise control, room and auditorium acoustics, recommended acoustic standards, analysis of sound and acoustics guidelines for architectural and urban designs. Basic concepts in architectural acoustics include absorption, diffraction, echo, insulation, masking, reverberation and transmission of sound. The process of hearing involving the ear and frequency discrimination and the thresholds of audibility and pain are discussed. Also covered is the measurement of sound including measuring instruments, sound scales and sound chambers. The noise induced causes of hearing damage include acoustic trauma, temporary threshold shift, permanent threshold shift and tinnitus. Non-noise-induced causes of hearing damage include ototoxic agents, nosoacusis, presbyacusis and sociocusis. Internal noise is controlled by reduction at source, use of absorbent screens and surfaces, insulation and building design. External noise is controlled by screening, planning, building design and insulation. Industrial noise control in new and existing workplaces as well as engineering noise control is discussed. Auditorium acoustics is influenced by reverberation, loudness of the original sound, as well as the size and shape of the room. Acoustic standards vary for different types of buildings and spaces. The course also covers the analysis of sound indoors and outdoors for architectural and urban projects and proposes acoustic guidelines for architectural and urban designs.

ARC 511
Tourism and Recreation Planning
ARC 511 | ARC | 1st Semester |  Download Courseware PDF

Course Synopsis

The course explores the concepts and interrelated components involved in tourism and recreation; providing an opportunity to understand the match between leisure demand and the need for the provision of amenities. It is designed to teach students the theoretical knowledge as well as the practical, through case studies with a focus on the main factors responsible for the growth and trends in tourism related activities for proper service delivery. The course covers topics relating to development and nature of tourism, essential consideration for tourism and recreation planning; definition of tourism and recreation; management of recreational resources, assessment and demand of recreational resources, tourism organisation, travel agents and developers and the principles of tourism and recreation management.

ARC 504
Comparative Studies of Built Forms
ARC 504 | ARC | 2nd Semester |  Download Courseware PDF

Course Synopsis

This course utilises critical and comparative analysis as tools for the understanding of why buildings exists in their present form, who is responsible for them and why cultures [or sub cultures] build in a specific way. It is structured to equip students to read the explicit [clear] and implicit [hidden, not easily seen] intention of designers and policy makers in the design and development of the built environment. In this course, case studies will be drawn from primary and secondary sources to reveal built forms as embodiments and expressions of differing conditions of natural use, technology and cultural value. Topics to be covered include: the nature and meaning of architectural criticism; forms and medium for architectural criticism; audience; bias and defensiveness as well as the fundamental methods for architectural criticism. Other topics include anthropological criticism and meanings as well as traditional and cultural contexts in architectural criticism.

ARC 506
Interior Design
ARC 506 | ARC | 2nd Semester |  Download Courseware PDF

Course Synopsis

A general introduction to interior design. Discussion of aims and principles of interior design from the contemporary point of view. Emphasis is on shaping the environment centred on the individual’s responses to the living pattern of society. Physical and psychology use of and response to residential, commercial and institutional spaces. The process of design in simple space-programming, analysis and transmission of materials into an integrated, aesthetic and functional whole. Studio: The process of space planning/design of commercial office interiors, residential interiors from programme analysis to presentation drawings. The development of approaches to furniture arrangement. Furniture, fabric and color selection. Lighting, interior landscaping, ventilation, air conditioning, materials and methods of construction; their effects on the character and quality of design solutions. Problems in the designing of residential interiors. Exercises in planning spaces and materials. Furniture and colour to fit assumed conditions. Presentation of solution in plans, elevations, perspectives and models.

ARC 508
housing seminar
ARC 508 | ARC | 2nd Semester |

Course Synopsis

This course is about the phenomenon of squatter settlements in developing nations; urban population growth and the demand for shelter. Discussions will explore the solutions to housing problems in developing nations in particular and critically appraise modern technology and the adoption of alternative technology systems in housing construction

ARC 510
Building Law
ARC 510 | ARC | 2nd Semester |  Download Courseware PDF

Course Synopsis

This course introduces the final year undergraduate students of the Department of Architecture to Laws that govern contracts. It deals with the nitty-gritties of contracts and how they are awarded, the role of the architect after being commissioned for a project, and his relationship with the Client and other building professionals on site. This course is very timely, because in 400 level students are expected to have spent one semester on site acquiring practical knowledge. Introducing the course at this level helps the students in knowing the rights, responsibilities and liabilities of architects and prepares them for the masters programme ahead, which is an integral part of Professional Practice Procedures at masters level. Topics to be covered include types of contracts, formation of contracts, laws relating to the interpretation of contracts, legal rights and obligations of Clients, Architects, Surveyors, Clerk of Works and other building professionals. The old conditions of engagement of building professionals and the new conditions of engagement of Architects.

ARC 599
Final Year Student Project
ARC 599 | ARC | 2nd Semester |  Download Courseware PDF

Course Synopsis

This course introduces the student to independent project research. It is essentially an individual study, topics chosen by the student with the approval of the department. The study may be in the field of design, theories, methods, history and philosophy or architecture. The student conducts a thorough research under the suppervision of an academic staff. At the end of the session, he produces a final research report to the approved standard.