Handbook

This course offers insight into historical and modern cities by focusing on the role of buildings in the articulation of urban settings. Emphasis is placed on the Acropolis in Athens; the relationship between human movement and the spaces within the imposing structures of ancient Rome (such as the Pantheon); the meaning of sacred institutions within Early Christian or Medieval cities (such as Hagia Sophia in Constantinople); the ideals of variety and order underpinning Renaissance urban projects (such as Pienza); the formation of Martin Place in Sydney, Haussmann’s reconstruction of Paris; and Le Corbusier’s projects for ideal cities. The scope of the course extends to and the post-World War II critiques of modern planning, in which theorists like Louis Kahn defended the making of monumental buildings. Current schemes for Sydney are also examined. Students will learn about cities and civic spaces by reading texts, as well as making drawings and models.