Foundations of Design: Representation (ARCH10001)

This subject is concerned with building a foundation for design as a discipline, introducing students to the role of representation in design and architecture in contemporary practice. The subject aims to develop student's skills by teaching them how to carefully observe and analyse information using different forms of media.

A series of lectures will introduce students to a range of vector based representation techniques. Why do designers draw? What is the role of representation? This subject emphasises the importance of developing a critical understanding of representational devices and operative design techniques.

The subject will explore key ideas addressed in the lecture series and put them into practice using a variety of representation techniques including orthogonal projection (by hand), model making, 2D vector based drawing and 3D modelling using common industry software.

Students will learn how to manage data, information and representation workflows between different software, how to represent spatial information, how to draw and model with care and develop a critical eye.

At the end of semester, students will design and prepare their own portfolio.

Note: Students are encouraged to purchase a laptop with suggested faculty specifications. Further information can be found on https://msd.unimelb.edu.au/abp-specialist-it-support

Incidental costs

This subject requires students to purchase tools and materials for the successful completion of 2D and 3D assessment tasks. Equipment includes tools beneficial for future subjects within the degree, but also consumables such as printing and modelling material.  Estimated total costs are $200 to $300 per person.