Sustainable Architecture Poster Exhibit

Sustainable architecture is too often thought of only in terms of the technology that can be applied as a ‘fix’ to existing architectural approaches. In ARCH 716: Understanding Sustainable Architecture, 16 students under the instruction of Michael McGlynn, assistant professor of architecture, explored perspectives that took into consideration the natural and cultural, as well as the technical, dimensions of sustainable architecture.

Over the course of the semester, each student was asked to develop an argument, germane to the theme of the seminar, in relation to a specific work of architecture. They began by developing written arguments with supporting graphics. The students then re-presented their arguments graphically as posters with supporting text. Each argument was developed through a process of revision and critique. Ideas were shared and evaluated by the instructor, in pairs and, at times, by the entire class.

In keeping with the previously stated intent, the work is wide-ranging, encompassing issues related to ecology and site integration, socio-cultural factors, building technics, and assessment frameworks. It is the critical exploration of specific issues while maintaining an awareness of the broader context that binds these works together, though. The seminar culminated in a poster exhibition and an accompanying publication now on display outside Seaton Hall 104 throughout the summer of 2009. The exhibition is free and open to the public.

Students who participated in the class include Mamdouh Altashkandi, Osamah Alhamdan, Patrick Carpenter, Kalyan Chakraborty, Josh Conard, Casey Culbertson, Trent Gareis, Bryan Klote, Michael Knapp, Rucha Mandlik, Austin Marsh, Philip Omunga, Andrew Rutenbeck, Chris Sass, Meenakshi Sharma and Patrick Smith.

For more information, contact:
Michael McGlynn, 785.532.1896
Diane Potts, 785.532.1090