The curriculum provides a basic launching point to understand the principles of classical architecture, and how to learn the classical vocabulary (syntax) in order to "invent within the rules." The orders, derived from the ancient Greeks, developed by the Romans, and renewed by the Renaissance architects, will form the basis for developing the tools needed to design in the classical manner. Classical architecture theory will be addressed, in the form of investigating the treatises of Vitruvius, Alberti, and others. Beaux arts design, drawing, and rendering methods will be taught, and proportional systems (and their variations), both interior and exterior, will be reviewed. Studios will incorporate and apply knowledge learned in the lecture courses.
- Curriculum
- Course Descriptions
- HT102 Classical Architecture: An Introduction
- SAC105 Classical Architecture Drawing Studio
- Classical Architecture Theory
- The Classical Interior (prereqs)
- Intermediate Classical Architecture Studio (pre-reqs)
- Advanced Classical Architecture Studio (pre reqs)
- Elective
HT 102 Introduction to Classical Architecture
Lecture 3.0 credits/ Lecture 15-weeks
Provides the introduction to the vocabulary of classical and traditional architecture through in-class lectures, demonstrations, and small studio projects. Topics to include: the orders, proportional systems, classical grammar and syntax, traditional construction, period styles, ornament, and interior planning. In-house and off-campus design and drawing exercises will be conducted.
SAC 105 Classical Architecture Drawing Studio
Studio 3.0 credits/ Studio 16-weeks
Traditional drawing and rendering exercises will include field pencil and plein air watercolor sketching, perspectives, cast sketching, sheet composition, casting of shades and shadows, traditional India ink and watercolor rendering technique, and the construction and rendering of a major analytique.
Classical Architecture Theory
Seminar 1.5 credits/ Lecture 8-weeks
Survey of classical architectural theory from ancient Rome through the 20th century; treatises investigated will include Vitruvius, Alberti, Palladio, Serlio, and Prophyrious, among others. Classes will be conducted in a seminar format, with lectures and students required to write papers analyzing the treatise readings.
The Classical Interior
Lecture 3.0 credits/ Lecture 15-weeks
Covering both the architectural and decorating aspects of classical interiors, this course addresses the styles, materials and treatments utilized in traditional interior design. Principles such as the space, structure, the orders, ornament, proportion, decoration, light and color, and character will be explored. The text book used shall be The Architecture of the Classical Interior, by Steven W. Semes. (Pre req: HT102 Classical Architecture: An Introduction)
Intermediate Classical Architecture Studio
Studio 3.0 credits/ Studio 16-weeks
A mid-level studio further developing classical design skills via two or three studio projects. Design methodology, and the use of models to develop form will be utilized. Project designs will be presented in traditional watercolor wash rendering technique. (Pre-reqs:Drafting ability, HT102 Classical Architecture: An Introduction, SAC105 Classical Architecture Drawing Studio, Course ID TBD: The Classical Interior)
Survey of Classical Architecture Canons
Lecture 3.0 credits
A comprehensive (but condensed) survey of western classical architecture canons from ancient Greece to the early 20th century, with an emphasis on understanding how classical architecture principles developed over time and the lessons students can learn through studying the best examples of historic classical architecture. Assignments will include papers and graphic analyses of historic buildings.
Capstone Project: Classical Architecture Studio
Studio 3.0 credits/ Studio 16-weeks
An independent, high level studio utilizing gained knowledge from the prerequisite coursework. One major house or building project (interior decorators would focus on interiors) to be developed from initial schematic design to final presentation using traditional academic watercolor wash rendering techniques. (Pre reqs HT102: Classical Architecture: An Introduction, SAC105 Classical Architecture Drawing Studio, Course ID TBD: The Classical Interior)
History of Boston Architecture (electives)
Lecture 1.5 credits
A survey of how the city of Boston's architecture developed from the beginnings of colonial Boston of the 17th century to the 19th century development of the
Victorian architecture of the Back Bay, South and North Ends, and the subsequent pluralism of the 20th and 21st century modern city. The evolution of period styles as uniquely developed (and in many cases, started) in Boston will be covered. Influential Boston architects studied will include Charles Bulfinch, Asher Benjamin, Henry Hobson Richardson, Charles McKim and others.
Total: 19.5 credits required courses