As the construction, maintenance and operation of the built environment undergoes significant changes based on demands in lower energy consumption, low CO2 emissions, and higher durability and long lasting quality, the building industry is delivering with innovative solutions in new construction methods and technologies. Consequently, the focus on sustainable design shifts increasingly towards the evaluation and thoughtful deployment of building materials and methods themselves. Instead of continuing local building traditions, more opportunities arise to make use of new and emerging products and construction methods. Many of these technologies are already developed, but little known or scarcely implemented by a wider audience of architects and contractors.
This research seminar is a continuation of a series of initiatives to look closely at new and emerging advanced construction methods applicable for the North American market and to communicate their opportunities for the higher demands of responsible building construction. Furthermore, we will evaluate and research on the potential for advanced and integrated environmental systems, and how alternative construction methods can create new opportunities. Each semester’s course will concentrate on the vast opportunities and innovative applications of specific material categories or specific construction methods.
The structure of the course will consist of self-directed and team-based research, where literature, contact to the industry and research institutes as well as discussions and student presentations and work shops will play a major role. The product each student is expected to deliver is communicational material in form of a compendium for architects, designers, engineers as well as for students. It is expected that students are motivated for team efforts and independent research with weekly deliverables. As an effort to compile this valuable material over time and to make it available for a broad audience, a publication is planned.
