Craft and Production of the House

This seminar examines the ordinary in housing to discover the extraordinary diversity that exists within the idea of the house.  The context centers on the affordable house, mass-produced for consumption by Canadians and Americans of middle or lower incomes, a building type not usually designed by architects.  Rarely studied as part of architectural discourse, the house defines our cultural landscape and constitutes a large percentage of Canada and the US’s construction expenditure. Mobility, prefabrication, temporary shelter, minimal living, and homelessness are also discussed.

Prompted by climate and culture the house offers shelter and protection.  Consumption places the house beyond the limited definition of shelter and adds the parameter of affordability.  It is impossible to discuss affordability—the cost to the individual—without discussing sustainability—the cost to society.  Using the house as a model, this seminar explores a variety of technical and programmatic issues as related to form.  The house will be investigated from different climatic, geographical, historical, political, professional, and manufacturing perspectives.

At the end of the seminar each participant will have formulated their own definitions of affordability and sustainability as well as understanding the complexities of culture, climate and consumption.  It is hoped that as a class we might have a understanding of how architects could participate in the design of housing that is suitable, by every definition, for those who cannot avail themselves of architectural services and the role of architects in assuring housing for all.

Presentations on the various topics including case studies and field trips will inform class discussion.  Required readings will augment the lectures.  Field trips will include a visit to a prefabrication plant and a lane-way house.  Evaluation is based on several assigned essays, presentations and participation in the class; an oral presentation and a final project.

Prerequisite:  ARCH 511 or permission of the instructor