College: Graduate Programs Institute

This specialization explores the evolution of architectural styles, principles, and techniques across different historical periods, with a focus on preserving and restoring heritage structures. Students study the history of architecture, preservation methods, material science, and cultural heritage management. The program combines theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in architectural conservation, heritage consultancy, urban planning, and museum management.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the historical evolution of architecture from ancient to modern times.
• Analyze cultural, social, and technological influences on architectural styles.
• Develop skills in heritage conservation, restoration techniques, and material preservation.
• Learn architectural documentation techniques, analysis, and digital reconstruction.
• Explore legal and ethical issues in heritage conservation and urban planning.
• Study the impact of climate, environment, and modern interventions on historical structures.
• Apply research-based methods to restore and adapt historical buildings.

Main Curriculum:

1. Introduction to Architectural History - Overview of architectural styles, theories, and historical influences.
2. Ancient and Classical Architecture - Study of architectural contributions of Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and early civilizations.
3. Medieval and Renaissance Architecture - Analysis of Gothic cathedrals, Islamic architecture, and Renaissance innovations.
4. Architecture from Baroque to Modern - Design evolution from Baroque to Art Nouveau, Modernism, and contemporary trends.
5. Principles of Architectural Conservation - Ethics, documentation techniques, and conservation planning.
6. Restoration Techniques and Materials Science - Traditional building materials, structural analysis, and restoration methodologies.
7. Digital Tools for Architectural Restoration - Use of 3D modeling, photogrammetry, and laser scanning in heritage preservation.
8. Urban Heritage and Adaptive Reuse - Strategies for integrating historical structures into modern urban environments.
9. Legal and Political Frameworks in Heritage Conservation - International guidelines, UNESCO regulations, and cultural heritage laws.
10. Capstone Project in Architectural Restoration - Practical research, site analysis, and restoration proposal for a heritage structure.

Assessment Methods:

• Research papers on architectural history and site analysis reports.
• Case studies on historical buildings and conservation projects.
• Restoration design proposals and 3D modeling of heritage structures.
• Internships with heritage organizations, museums, or urban planning agencies.

Recommended Textbooks:

• "A History of Architecture" by Spiro Kostof.
• "Architectural Conservation: Principles and Practice" by John Earl.
• "Constructing the Past: Architectural Conservation and Restoration" by Paul Barnwell.

Prerequisites:

Basic knowledge of art history, architecture, or cultural studies is recommended.

Duration of Specialization:

Typically 3 to 4 years, including coursework, practical restoration projects, and fieldwork.

Target Audience:

Architects, historians, heritage conservation experts, and aspiring urban planners interested in cultural heritage preservation and architectural history. This specialization provides students with the theoretical knowledge and practical experience necessary to analyze, protect, and restore architectural heritage while understanding the evolution of built environments over time.