teaching

Create Integrated Architecture provides research-based teachings for the architectural programs at Aalborg University, Denmark. Aalborg University has Problem Based Learning (PBL) as an overall teaching strategy.

The bachelor program in Architecture and Urban Design applies an integrated design-approach combining architectural and engineering mindsets through all phases of design. Students develop course teachings and hard knowledge into design skills and competencies through studio work. Create Integrated Architecture delivers teachings in a variety of formats such as lectures, workshops, seminars, excursions and supervision, spanning from math to experimental design and from architectural detailing to urban design. Sustainability, tectonics and a human-based approach are key issues in the integrated design program.

The master program in architecture are followed by Danish and international students, thus providing an intercultural learning environment. The program develops knowledge, skills and competencies in the fields of health and well-being, tectonics in architecture and environmental and social sustainability. Create Integrated Architecture provides research-based teachings through all semesters.

A transformation of the Danish healthcare and welfare sector is currently going on. This influence the everyday practice of public settings like hospitals, hospices, elderly homes/nursing homes, community health centres, residential care centres, rehabilitation, childcare, schools, and psychiatry. However, it also triggers a growing political, design professional, and academic interest in how the built environment and architecture of such settings should not only be more sustainable, but can possibly also help promote healthier lifestyles, prevent future diseases, improve social relations, enhance public health, and help improve overall wellbeing or quality of life. As part hereof, an increasing demand for evidence-based research and detailed knowledge on how the built environment influence health and wellbeing of the different user-groups is key. This because these user groups often are very different in their specific spatial and functional demands or needs.

The AHW-course focus on providing the student with an integrated design thinking perspective and in-depth knowledge, skills and competencies in the sustainable design of buildings for health and wellbeing. As well as, a more profound understanding of using different research methods to understand various user behaviour, so the students can begin describing, analysing and explaining the elements of social sustainability and the various user contexts, before they plan their health related design strategies.

Course responsible: Associate Professor Tenna D. O. Tvedebrink

The course teaches integrated design methodology and approaches, also for the international students entering the master education at this stage. The course evolve around a minor, individual design project; a small building designed for a specific site applying off-grid sustainable solutions and focusing on passive means and low-tech solutions to establish desired climates.

Course responsible: Associate Professor Michael Lauring

The project module encompasses the design of a zero-energy, mixed-use housing complex of high urban density in order to aim for dense, sustainable cities. Though dense the complex must establish a pleasant micro climate providing both private and public space outdoor as well as indoor and addressing the question of modern sustainable lifestyle. Students develop the design in groups of five while applying the knowledge obtained in previous courses.

Project responsible: Associate Professor Michael Lauring