Course detail

What is Digital in Architecture

FA-DGA-TEAcad. year: 2025/2026

The seminar examines the transformative developments in architecture from the 1990s to the present, focusing on how digital technologies have redefined the discipline. It traces the evolution of architectural thought and practice during this period through key readings, exploring fundamental concepts of the period, such as folding, digital tectonic, fabrication, or discrete architecture. Through literature review, presentations, and discussions, students will investigate methods and tools used for architectural design and representation from the first digital turn until today.

Language of instruction

English

Number of ECTS credits

2

Mode of study

Not applicable.

Guarantor

MArch Nikola Beim

Department

Department of Theory (UT)

Offered to foreign students

The home faculty only

Entry knowledge

Not applicable.

Rules for evaluation and completion of the course

The seminar will be based on a lecture given by the instructor. Each lecture will be followed by a section where students present the reading assigned for the given week followed by the discussion of all students. Students should read all assigned texts for each class, be prepared to raise relevant questions and participate in the discussions.
Attendance and class participation is mandatory. Students are expected to be conversant in the readings prior to class discussions.
The students will be expected to complete the weekly readings, conduct one presentation, participate in class discussions, and complete the final written assignment in a timely manner.

Aims

  • Analyze Key Concepts: Identify and critically analyze fundamental concepts that emerged in architecture between the 1990s and today.
  • Understand the Digital Turn: Articulate the impact of the digital turn on architectural thought and practice, including its influence on design methodologies, tools, and representation techniques.
  • Evaluate Design Methods: Investigate the evolution of methods and tools used in architectural design and representation, assessing their implications for practice.
  • Develop Critical Thinking: Engage in discussions and presentations that foster critical perspectives on the relationship between digital technology and architecture.

Study aids

Not applicable.

Prerequisites and corequisites

Not applicable.

Basic literature

Not applicable.

Recommended reading

Not applicable.

Classification of course in study plans

  • Programme NE_A+U Master's 2 year of study, summer semester, elective
  • Programme BX_A+U Bachelor's 1 year of study, summer semester, elective
  • Programme NE_A+U Master's 1 year of study, summer semester, elective

  • Programme NE_A+U Master's

    specialization --- , 1 year of study, summer semester, elective

Type of course unit

 

Seminar

26 hod., compulsory

Teacher / Lecturer

MArch Nikola Beim