Construction 1 provides an introduction to the principles, components and processes involved in the construction of a building. Intended for second-year architecture students, it establishes the basic knowledge needed to understand how architectural design relates to materials, construction methods and technical requirements.
A building consists of interdependent systems whose components fulfil specific functions while contributing to the performance of the whole. Understanding its construction therefore requires both an examination of individual elements and an analysis of their relationships. The course follows a progressive approach, moving from building functions and requirements to construction systems, structural elements, site preparation and foundations.
The course is organised around two complementary parts:
- Part A - Building functions and requirements examines what a building is expected to provide. It introduces the functional and performance requirements that guide architectural and construction decisions, including stability, safety, protection from the external environment, comfort and usability.
- Part B - Building systems, components and construction methods examines how a building is constructed. It introduces the main building systems and the relationships between materials, components and assembly methods. Particular attention is given to load-bearing elements, such as columns and walls; spanning elements, such as beams and floors; stairs; and roofing elements. The course also covers preliminary works, landscaping and earthworks, followed by foundations, basic preliminary sizing, ground beams, foundation walls and associated service networks.
Lectures are supported by two practical exercises: Introduction to Building Composition and Materials and Construction Methods. Through the reading and graphical analysis of architectural documents, these exercises develop the ability to identify building components, distinguish their roles and explain how they are assembled. A construction-site visit connects the concepts studied in class with actual building practices.
By the end of the course, the aim is to understand a building as a coordinated set of systems and to relate architectural form, material choices and construction principles.