ACH 223 - History of American Architecture

3 credit hours - Three hours weekly; one term.
An introduction to the development of American architecture, interior design, urban design and landscape architecture from pre-colonial times to the present. Particular attention will be paid to the old and new world sources of American design, as well as to the cultural, political, economic and environmental forces that have shaped the American built environment. Lectures and discussions will be supplemented by field trips. No previous art courses are necessary.

Crosslisted: Also offered as AMS 223 and ART 223 ; credit is given for only one of the following: ACH 223, AMS 223 or ART 223 .

Course Outcomes:

Interpret the built environment as an expression of cultural beliefs, values and history.
- Discuss how different styles of architecture reflect social and political beliefs of the time.
- Explain how specific religious architecture reflects the tenets of the religion.
Demonstrate an understanding of the materials, structural principles, vocabulary and concepts of architectural history.
- Explain how a particular design works structurally.
- Describe how a particular design works visually.
- Explain the impact of available resources and technology on architectural structure.
Explain the influence of Old and New World cultures on American architecture.
- Explain how the Native American cultures influenced later American architectural forms.
- Explain what European cultures contributed to American architectural designs.
Demonstrate an understanding of the evolution of American architectural styles from the time of pre-colonial cultures to the present.
- Describe how our approaches to landscape architecture evolved from pre-colonial times to the present.
- Explain how American ideas about city planning have changed from colonial times to the present.
- Describe how American domestic architectural styles have evolved from pre-colonial times to the present.
Analyze the influence of environment, resources and new technology on the history of American architecture.
- Explain the history of industrial revolution influenced the history of American architecture.
- Explain how environmental factors influence architectural design.
Articulate the impact of American architectural ideas and thoeries on world architecture in the last fifty years.
- Explain the influence of American architects on residental architecture in European countries.
- Describe the impact of the International Style as developed in the United States on twentieth century global architecture.