ABS - Architecture Building Science
ABS 321 - Construction Technologies I Units: 3
This introductory course examines the fundamental properties, applications, and performance of common construction materials, with a focus on building enclosure systems and assemblies. Students will develop practical knowledge in material selection, detailing, and construction techniques, informed by both historical context and contemporary practice. The course emphasizes the appropriate use of materials considering building codes, climate responsiveness, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, students will explore material applications and detailing in both structural and non-structural building components. Throughout the semester, students will integrate this knowledge into their architectural studio projects, reinforcing the connection between material understanding and design execution.
Term Offered: Fall
ABS 323 - Advanced Construction Technologies Units: 3
This course builds on the work of Construction Technologies I and provides an in-depth exploration of contemporary construction technologies as they relate to architectural design, building systems, and material performance. Emphasizing the integration of real-world construction practices as well as emerging ones in our region, the course examines structural systems, envelope design, material assemblies, and fabrication techniques through the lens of technological innovation and sustainability. Students will engage in analytical and applied investigations of building components, detailing strategies, and construction documentation while evaluating the implications of emerging technologies such as prefabrication, digital fabrication, and smart materials. Through case studies, technical drawing exercises, and hands-on experimentation, students will develop a critical understanding of how construction methods influence design intent, environmental performance, and the future of the built environment.
Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: ABS 321
Term Offered: Spring
ABS 331 - Environmental Control Systems I Units: 3
This course introduces foundational concepts in environmental control with an emphasis on passive design strategies that optimize thermal comfort, energy efficiency, and climate-responsive architecture. Students will investigate techniques such as passive heating, solar gain and rejection, shading, natural cooling, and thermal envelope performance. The curriculum emphasizes site analysis, building orientation, landscape integration, and retrofitting approaches to enhance energy efficiency and support sustainability goals, including net-zero performance. Through lectures, discussions, case studies, and research projects, students will develop skills to analyze and evaluate passive design strategies that minimize energy consumption while improving indoor environmental quality.
Term Offered: Fall
ABS 332 - Environmental Control Systems II Units: 3
Environmental Control Systems II advances foundational knowledge of passive strategies but furthers the student's knowledge by focusing on the application and integration of active environmental systems within architectural design. This course examines electric lighting, water use and conservation, mechanical heating and cooling, solar technologies, smart control systems, and acoustics. Students will critically evaluate and apply these systems through the comprehensive lenses of performance, system integration, cultural context, and user experience, with an emphasis on sustainable design principles.
Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: ABS 331
Term Offered: Spring
ABS 341 - Structures for Architects I Units: 3
This course offers a comprehensive study of structural systems within diverse architectural typologies, with a primary focus on 20th and 21st-century Western traditions. Students will examine and compare the principles, materials, and conceptual frameworks that underpin contemporary structural solutions. Emphasis is placed on how architectural typology, technological advancements, environmental considerations, and geographical contexts shape structural design choices and innovations. Through lectures, case studies, and hands-on modeling exercises, students will gain a deep understanding of structural diversity and its influence on architectural form and function. The course cultivates critical analytical skills essential for integrating structural system selection and design into contextually responsive architectural design projects.
Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisites: PHYS 100 and MATH 124
Term Offered: Fall
ABS 440 - Structures for Architects II Units: 3
This class will further the continued exploration of the study of materials and structural significance in the design of buildings regionally that is conducive to the Great Basin / Sierra geographic location, while incorporating the fundamental and exploratory principles of architectural design. Design of better-informed structures efficiently with respect to space, material and geometry with an emphasis on material selection. Exploration of new building materials and building systems are discussed and understood.
Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite ABS 341.
