Outline

Overview

This course aims to provide students with conceptual and technical skills required to creatively explore dynamic transactions between place and architecture. Students will develop an understanding of fundamental design methods and architectural communications techniques, alongside the ability to critically engage with complex ideas in the built environment and beyond. From generative and iterative form finding to space and place making, this course emphasizes material exploration and architectural craft. Essential design sensitivities and skills will be developed through different modes of education and practice including lectures, studio tutorials and demonstrations, and presentations as well as through physical engagement with materials and modelling processes.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Architecture
Credit points	12
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	BDES1011
Prohibitions ?	DESA1001 or BDES1010 or BDES1024
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Jason Dibbs, jason.dibbs@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
In-person practical, skills, or performance task or test	Early Feedback Task Early Feedback Task in class	0%	Week 03 Due date: 10 Mar 2026 at 17:00	In class from 12:00–5:00 pm	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	Week 4 - Composition with Lines Students will upload and then present the design for their "composition with lines" observation place.	25%	Week 04 Due date: 16 Mar 2026 at 23:59	Presentations from 9:00 am–5:00 pm	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	WEEK 8 - Composition with Planes Students will upload and then present the design for their "composition with planes" observation place.	35%	Week 08 Due date: 20 Apr 2026 at 23:59	Presentations from 9:00 am–5:00 pm	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	WEEK 13 - Composition with Lines and Planes Students will upload and then present the design for their "composition with volumes" observation place.	40%	Week 13 Due date: 25 May 2026 at 23:59	Presentations from 9:00 am–5:00 pm	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

Across the semester, students will work iteratively on the design of their observation place. In the first phase of the semester (weeks 1–4), students will compose their designs with a focus on lines. In the second phase (weeks 5–8), with planes. And in the final phase (9–13), with volumes. Each phase culminates in a presentation assessment for which students will receive feedback. It is expected that the sophistication and resolution of the observation place design will increase with each subsequent phase and assessment.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	Work of outstanding quality, demonstrating mastery of the learning outcomes assessed. The work shows significant innovation, experimentation, critical analysis, synthesis, insight, creativity, and/or exceptional skill.
Distinction	75 - 84	Work of excellent quality, demonstrating a sound grasp of the learning outcomes assessed. The work shows innovation, experimentation, critical analysis, synthesis, insight, creativity, and/or superior skill.
Credit	65 - 74	Work of good quality, demonstrating more than satisfactory achievement of the learning outcomes assessed, or work of excellent quality for a majority of the learning outcomes assessed.
Pass	50 - 64	Work demonstrating satisfactory achievement of the learning outcomes assessed.
Fail	0 - 49	Work that does not demonstrate satisfactory achievement of one or more of the learning outcomes assessed.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

In accordance with University of Sydney School of Architecture Design and Planning Faculty Resolutions 2022, for every calendar day up to and including 10 calendar days after the due date, a penalty of 5% of the maximum awardable marks will be applied to the late work. For work submitted more than 10 calendar days after the due date, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	01. Introduction and Lecture	Lecture (2 hr)
	01. The World of Lines, Space In-Between	Tutorial (2 hr)
	01. The World of Lines, Space In-Between	Practical (3 hr)
Week 02	02. Lecture	Lecture (2 hr)
	02. Dimensional Translations, Linear Recursions	Tutorial (2 hr)
	02. Dimensional Translations, Linear Recursions	Practical (3 hr)
Week 03	03. Lecture	Lecture (2 hr)
	03. Early Feedback Task	Tutorial (2 hr)
	03. Assemblage + Production	Practical (3 hr)
Week 04	04. Presentations	Lecture (2 hr)
	04. Presentations	Tutorial (2 hr)
	04. Presentations	Practical (3 hr)
Week 05	05. Lecture	Lecture (2 hr)
	05. Sky Country/Celestial Cartographies	Tutorial (2 hr)
	05. Sky Country/Celestial Cartographies	Practical (3 hr)
Week 06	06. Lecture	Lecture (2 hr)
	06. Atmospheres, Observation Places	Tutorial (2 hr)
	06. Atmospheres, Observation Places	Practical (3 hr)
Week 07	07. Lecture	Lecture (2 hr)
	07. Planar Recursions, Assemblage + Production	Tutorial (2 hr)
	07. Planar Recursions, Assemblage + Production	Practical (3 hr)
Week 08	08. Presentations	Lecture (2 hr)
	08. Presentations	Tutorial (2 hr)
	08. Presentations	Practical (3 hr)
Week 09	09. Lecture	Lecture (2 hr)
	09. Form + Volume, Program + Parti	Tutorial (2 hr)
	09. Form + Volume, Program + Parti	Practical (3 hr)
Week 10	10. Lecture	Lecture (2 hr)
	10. Zoning, Choreography	Tutorial (2 hr)
	10. Zoning, Choreography	Practical (3 hr)
Week 11	11. Lecture	Lecture (2 hr)
	11. Bone, Skin	Tutorial (2 hr)
	11. Bone, Skin	Practical (3 hr)
Week 12	12. Lecture	Lecture (2 hr)
	12. Assemblage + Production	Tutorial (2 hr)
	12. Assemblage + Production	Practical (3 hr)
Week 13	13. Presentations	Lecture (2 hr)
	13. Presentations	Tutorial (2 hr)
	13. Presentations	Practical (3 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Please refer to the Resolutions of the University School: University of Sydney School of Architecture Design and Planning Faculty Resolutions 2022

Clause 8 (3) (a). Students are expected to attend a minimum of 90% of timetabled activities for each unit of study, unless granted exemption.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 12 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 240-300 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

It is very important that you read broadly to develop your own ideas about architectural design and art practice and that you become conversant in the theories and principles that are being explored in the studio.

Required and recommended readings will be detailed in Weekly Activity sheets and a general reading list provided in the Unit of Study Outline on Canvas.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Demonstrate an understanding of creative design processes and conceptual strategies, and architecture’s theoretical, social, cultural and historic concerns.
LO2. Demonstrate proficiency in techniques of spatial design, and conventions of architectural drawing and model making.
LO3. Critically evaluate written and graphic sources, and engage in field research to inform creative design experimentation and development.
LO4. Work productively in the architectural studio setting, recording and critically analysing design development, evaluating and reflecting on feedback and contributing to class discussions and activities.
LO5. Effectively convey spatial and architectural propositions using verbal, written, graphic, and physical modes of communication.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

This unit emphasises foundational architectural design practices and knowledge in order to prepare students for future success. In response to feedback in 2025, the weekly design activities and instructions have been simplified and streamlined.

Additional information

Additional costs

Materials + Tools kits are supplied to students at cost price.Please, refer to the Unit of Study Outline for up-to-date payment instructions.

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

BDES1026: Architecture Studio 1A

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links