ALHOSN University Catalogue Global Knowledge with Local Vision ...

ARC 450 Conservation and Preservation (3 = 1 + 2)
This is a course on the theoretical studies and critical issues in the field of architectural conservation and
preservation of historical buildings and sites in general. Emphasis is placed on the identification of architectural
styles and historical periods of local vernacular architecture and on the identification of conceptual criteria for
preservation. The course also involves the measuring, recording, and documenting of existing historical buildings,
and the production of drawings of a selected and approved significant local building.
ARC 452 Sustainable Housing Design (3 = 1 + 2)
The Sustainable Housing Design course deals with the design of low-rise, multiple-unit, residential housing which
demonstrates and promotes advanced levels of energy efficiency, resource conservation strategies and sustainable
development policies. Sustainable housing is viewed from a holistic approach, investigating issues as they relate to
architecture, building science and energy systems.
ARC 453 Principles of Universal Design (3 = 1 + 2)
The concept of Universal Design encompasses the design of products, environments, and communications to be
useable by all people to the greatest extent possible. Through architectural example and application, this
course studies and illustrates the principles of equitable, flexible and intuitive usage; perceptible information
services; tolerance for error and safety; low physical effort; and appropriate size, space, and equipment for the
accommodation of all peoples.
ARC 454 The Architecture of Entertainment (3 = 1 + 2)
This course is focused on architecture that incorporates specific design aspects of circulation, large scale crowds
and subsequent traffic control and safety factors, the elements of event lighting as well as ambient and
maintenance lighting, the significance of acoustics as a design element in architecture, the importance of detail in
addressing human factors, and a study of contrasting scales in events that embrace the above factors.
ARC 455 Housing (3 = 1 + 2)
This course is designed to develop an understanding of the role of housing in the lives of the individual
and the community. The relationships of the “Individual to Home” and of “Housing to the Community” will be
studied as well as the adaptation of the physical environment to meet the needs of habitation. The physical,
psychological, social, economic and cultural needs of housing and their determinants will be examined in the
context of contemporary society and urban issues.
ARC 456 Architecture and Ecology (3 = 1 + 2)
This course surveys the complexities and dynamics of the eco-system and sub-systems; the functional relations
among them; and the external factors that influence the behavior of natural systems. Concepts introduced include
energy flows, nutrient cycles, population dynamics, communities, and habitats. The relationship between the
primary factors of geology, surficial deposits, hydrology, flora and fauna, and the effects of humans and
urbanization on the natural processes will be studied. The concept of sustainability is introduced, stressing
energy as the central issue that underlies design and/or management of the built environment.
ARC 457 Architectural Lighting Design (3 = 1 + 2)
This course presents the fundamentals and physics of light and visual perception; an introduction to light sources;
basic lighting principles and design; human factors in lighting; building interiors; color in lighting; building
exterior lighting and special lighting applications. The course also presents an introduction to Day lighting design
and the importance of lighting energy management.
ARC 458 Architecture and Urban Design (3 = 1 + 2)
This course involves the study of the impact of built form on the urban landscape through an understanding of the
shaping and use of public urban spaces. The course looks at impact factors on urban form, movement of
pedestrians, vehicles and their interface; and non-material influences on the perception, organization, and use of
urban spaces. Design guidelines and principles are explored related to squares, public spaces and urban open
spaces.
ARC 459 Architecture and Photography (3 = 1 + 2)
This course provides students with an opportunity to improve their photography skills and utilize a variety of
camera settings and picture editing techniques to prepare effective presentations of architectural interiors and
exteriors and exteriors as well as landscapes. History and impact of digital technology on architectural
photography and presentation is examined. It is conducted as a seminar, hands-on course with photography
poster assignments and compelling portfolio presentations. The course is augmented with local as well as
regional field trips.
92