Course Overview
Green Architecture introduces students to the fields of architecture and construction through the lens of sustainability. Today's students have grown up in an age of 'green' choices — in this course, they learn how to apply that concept to the built environment. Students explore dimensioning, measuring, and architectural sustainability as they design affordable housing units using Autodesk's 3D architectural design software. They investigate how buildings consume energy and resources, and apply principles of sustainable design to create structures that are both functional and environmentally responsible.
The Big Idea
The buildings we design and construct have a profound impact on the environment. Architects and engineers who understand sustainability can create spaces that serve people today without compromising the world of tomorrow.
Course Units
Unit 1: Architecture & the Built Environment
Students explore the history and principles of architecture, examining how buildings have evolved over time to meet human needs. They investigate different architectural styles, the role of architects and engineers in the design process, and how the built environment shapes communities and quality of life.
Key Activities
- Analyze architectural styles and their historical context
- Explore how buildings are designed to meet human needs
- Investigate the roles of architects, engineers, and contractors
- Sketch and evaluate the design of a local building
Unit 2: Measurement, Dimensioning & Technical Drawing
Students develop the technical skills needed to communicate architectural designs. They learn to read and create architectural drawings, apply standard dimensioning conventions, and use scale to represent real-world structures accurately. Students practice measuring spaces and translating physical dimensions into technical drawings.
Key Activities
- Read and interpret architectural floor plans and elevations
- Apply dimensioning conventions to architectural drawings
- Measure and draw a room or space to scale
- Create a basic floor plan using proper architectural notation
Unit 3: Sustainable Design Principles
Students investigate the principles of sustainable architecture — including passive solar design, energy efficiency, water conservation, and the use of sustainable materials. They analyze how design choices affect a building's environmental footprint and explore green building certification standards like LEED.
Key Activities
- Investigate passive solar design and natural lighting
- Analyze the energy efficiency of different building materials
- Explore water conservation strategies in building design
- Research LEED certification and green building standards
Unit 4: Designing Affordable Housing with CAD
Students apply their architectural and sustainability knowledge to design an affordable housing unit using Autodesk's 3D architectural design software. They create detailed floor plans, elevations, and 3D models, incorporating sustainable design features and presenting their completed designs with supporting documentation.
Key Activities
- Use Autodesk software to create 3D architectural models
- Design a floor plan that meets affordability requirements
- Incorporate sustainable features into the building design
- Present the completed housing design with a sustainability analysis
Skills You'll Build
Transferable skills developed throughout this course. Learn more about each skill →