Course Syllabus

Contact Information

Instructor : Ken Marold

Department : Architecture

Office Hours: by appointment

Email: kenmarold@ou.edu

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Course Details

Studio Location : Gould Hall 105

Design + Build Studio is an immersive studio experience where you will design, develop, prototype, and build real-world projects for local community partners. This studio will explore comprehensive digital design practices, interdisciplinary collaboration, material investigations, systems analysis, integrated sustainability, physical prototyping and fabrication, project management, and construction document delivery. You will collaborate with professors and students in Architecture and Construction Sciences, and develop project workflows that take ideas from concept to full-scale prototypes and testing, to complete working drawings and fabricated components that are ready for construction.

In this studio, we will operate as a professional team engaged at all levels of project design, development, and fabrication using Rhino, Grasshopper, Revit, and an array of digital and analog tools at the C_ML. This studio will operate like a professional design practice. Dedication and passion for creative problem solving, making, and craft will be absolutely essential for this studio. In return, you will come out of this studio a stronger, more competitive maker and design thinker. The semester will begin with client and contractor meetings, site visits, group research, and individual design charettes presented to project stakeholders. After a design is selected, it will be developed and refined by the entire studio with regular project deliverables including comprehensive design development presentations, scale model studies, full-scale physical prototypes, submission to the OKC downtown design review committee, a complete construction document set and finalized fabrication solutions, that will be delivered to students participating in Spring 2024, CNS Design+Build elective and D10 Design+Build Studio. In the spring, students enrolled in these classes will build the actual project.

Students that excel in this studio will be recommended for priority enrollment in the spring semester Design + Build Studio. Should you choose to participate in this studio, you will spend your in-class time...out of the classroom, managing a real-world project, participating in full-scale shop fabrication, and working on-site, constructing your design ideas.

This studio will operate like a professional design practice and our project will be submitted to the OKC Downtown Design Review Committee for approval. The likelihood of approval completely hinges on the studio delivering early and often and gelling as a tight team. In this studio it is paramount that we operate like a well oiled machine. There will be times for individual success but we will ultimately succeed or fail as together. Success will mean that your project will actually be built, by you, in the Spring. Take a moment to absorb the this. You will graduate from OU, with your name on a real-world project, that you have designed and built, from concept to completion, impacting real communities, and making its mark.

Prerequisites

• Fifth-year Architecture Undergraduate, required.
• Intermediate knowledge (~three semesters or more) of Rhino3D, Photoshop and Illustrator, required.
• Intermediate knowledge of Revit and Grasshopper, recommended.
• Solid work ethic, self-motivated and focused, required.
• Intense desire to solve problems, and make rad work, required.
• Desire to gain a competitive advantage in your field, required. 

Course Experiences

• Cultivate opportunities to shine within team settings to define, design, and refine progressive architectural ideas.
• Utilize analog and digital fabrication tools, CNC milling and 3D printing, to execute full-scale prototypes of foundations, framing assemblies, enclosures, MEP and finishes.
• Develop a practical, ‘designer-centric’ workflow using an industry tested software stack that includes Rhino3D, Grasshopper and Revit to develop designs into sophisticated presentations, physical prototypes, and completed construction documents.
• Work effectively in a collaborative team setting with other students.
• Engage with community partners and stakeholders to outline and execute project goals.
• Evaluate designs to ensure that constructibility, cost, and timing goals are achievable.
• Gain real-world experiences in the architecture and construction fields.

Expectations

This course materials list outlines the essential resources, tools, and references required for this design-build studio course. These materials will support you in your creative exploration, design development, and hands-on construction of studio projects.

1. Drawing and Drafting Supplies:

• By now you should have a pretty sizable collection of supplies

2. Digital Tools:

• Laptop or desktop computer with SketchUp, Rhino/Grasshopper, Revit, Discord, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign and Adobe Acrobat applications installed.

3. Model-Making and Prototyping Materials:

• Various model-making materials: foam boards, chipboards, balsa wood, acrylic sheets, cardboard, and basswood.
• Cutting tools: utility knives, X-Acto blades, scissors, and cutting mats.
• Adhesives: white glue, wood glue, super glue, and double-sided tape.
• Rulers, straight edges, and drafting tools for precise cutting and measuring.

4. Hand Tools and Equipment:

• Measuring and marking tools: tape measures, calipers, and marking gauges.
• Safety equipment: safety glasses, gloves, dust masks, and hearing protection.

5. Site Analysis and Documentation Tools:

• Cameras for site documentation and analysis.
• Surveying equipment: measuring tapes.

6. Reference Books and Periodicals:

• Architectural theory and history books for design inspiration and context.
• Printed and digital architecture and design publications and social media sites for contemporary trends and innovations.

7. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Safety boots, hard hats, and appropriate attire for on-site visits and construction activities.

8. Printing and Presentation Materials:

• Printing services for producing presentation boards, posters, and project documentation.

12. Construction Materials:

• Depending on the scope of the design-build projects, specific construction materials such as concrete, wood, steel, glass, and more may be required.

13. Budget for Fabrication and Prototyping:

• A budget allocation for purchasing materials and supplies for fabricating models, prototypes, and mock-ups.

It's important to note that the specific materials and resources required may vary depending on the projects assigned in the course and the design-build studio's focus. Your instructor will communicate the detailed list of materials and any updates to students at the beginning of the course to ensure they have access to the necessary tools and references for a successful learning experience.

Grades

Breakdown

Activity	Description	Percentage
Site Analysis	Comprehensive exploration of site context, constraints, and potentials. Integration of site findings into design decisions and concepts. Sensitivity to site surroundings, cultural factors, and contextual influences.	10%
Program Analysis	Thorough understanding of program requirements and user needs. Integration of programmatic elements into spatial layout. Clear communication of how program informs design decisions.	10%
Conceptual Development	Clear articulation of primary design concept or idea. Exploration of design alternatives and creative thinking. Relevance of the concept to site, program, and design objectives.	15%
Design Development	Cohesive spatial organization that supports user needs and program. Attention to materiality, detailing, and sustainability. Alignment with design concept and integration of site and program.	20%
Design Presentation	Effective use of visual tools to communicate design intent. Clear and organized presentation of drawings, models, and diagrams. Demonstrates a strong ability to convey design ideas visually.	10%
Construction Documentation	Accurate and well-coordinated architectural drawings. Integration of building systems, specifications, and details. Adherence to design intent and alignment with previous phases.	20%
Fabrication and Prototyping	High-quality craftsmanship in physical models and prototypes. Thoughtful material selection and experimentation. Integration of design elements and successful functionality.	10%
Practice and Professionalism	Adherence to ethical and professional standards. Effective teamwork, collaboration, and communication. Timely completion of tasks and adherence to project deadlines.	5%
	Total	100%

Grading Scale

Letter Grade	Range
A	100% to 94%
A-	< 94% to 90%
B+	< 90% to 87%
B	< 87% to 84%
B-	< 84% to 80%
C+	< 80% to 77%
C	< 77% to 74%
C-	< 74% to 70%
D+	< 70% to 67%
D	< 67% to 64%
D-	< 64% to 61%
F	< 61% to 0%

Course Components

Course Component 1 : Site Analysis

Site analysis is a critical phase in the architectural design process that involves a comprehensive exploration and understanding of the physical, contextual, and cultural attributes of a project site. In a design-build studio course, site analysis plays a pivotal role in informing and shaping the subsequent design decisions and solutions. This phase requires students to develop keen observation skills, analytical thinking, and an ability to extract meaningful insights from the site's surroundings.

During the site analysis phase, students engage in a systematic investigation of the project site, ranging from the immediate built environment to the broader urban context. The primary goal is to gather relevant information and data that will guide the development of a design concept that is responsive, contextual, and innovative.

Course Component 2 : Program Analysis

Program analysis is a crucial phase within the architectural design process. It involves a thorough exploration and understanding of the functional requirements, spatial relationships, and user needs that will shape the design of a built environment. Program analysis serves as the foundation for creating architecture that is both responsive and meaningful to its intended occupants and functions.

Program analysis encompasses a multifaceted approach that delves into the complex interplay between architectural design and the functional needs of the project.

Course Component 3 : Conceptual Development

Conceptual development is a pivotal phase within the architectural design process. It involves the translation of abstract ideas, inspirations, and design aspirations into a coherent and compelling architectural concept that will guide the entire design journey. This phase encourages students to think critically, imaginatively, and holistically about the design challenge at hand.

Conceptual development represents a dynamic and creative exploration of design possibilities. This phase sets the stage for the project's unique identity and narrative, influencing subsequent design decisions.

Course Component 4 : Design Development

Design development is a pivotal and transformative phase within the architectural design process. Building upon the foundation of conceptual development, this phase involves the detailed exploration and refinement of the chosen design concept, transforming it into a well-coordinated and functional architectural solution. Design development integrates creativity, critical thinking, and technical expertise to shape the project's final form.

Design development represents a crucial bridge between conceptual ideas and tangible architectural solutions. This phase requires students to transition from broad conceptual thinking to focused design decisions.

Course Component 5 : Design Presentation

Design presentation is a crucial aspect of the architectural design process. It involves effectively communicating the design intent, rationale, and spatial qualities of a project to various stakeholders, peers, and professionals through compelling visual and verbal means. The design presentation phase plays a pivotal role in conveying the depth of thought, creativity, and innovation embedded in the architectural solution.

Design presentation is a comprehensive and strategic endeavor that requires students to showcase their design in a clear, organized, and engaging manner. The primary goal is to effectively convey the essence of the design, its impact, and its alignment with project goals.

Course Component 6 : Construction Documentation

Construction documentation is a critical phase within the architectural design process. It involves the detailed translation of design concepts into comprehensive and precise drawings, specifications, and documents that serve as a roadmap for the construction and realization of the architectural project. The construction documentation phase ensures that the design vision is accurately and effectively conveyed to contractors, builders, and other stakeholders.

Construction documentation represents a comprehensive set of detailed plans, drawings, and documents that guide the physical construction of the architectural design. This phase requires students to bridge the gap between creative design thinking and technical execution.

Course Component 7 : Fabrication + Prototyping

Fabrication and prototyping represent a dynamic and hands-on phase within the architectural design process. This phase involves the transformation of design concepts into physical models, mock-ups, and prototypes, allowing students to explore materiality, construction techniques, and spatial qualities in a tangible and experiential way. Fabrication and prototyping serve as a bridge between design theory and practical implementation.

Fabrication and prototyping encompass a range of creative and technical activities that bring the design to life in a physical form. This phase encourages students to engage with materials, experiment with construction methods, and refine design details through iterative making.

Course Component 8 : Practice + Professionalism

Practice and professionalism encompass a vital aspect of architectural education. This phase focuses on instilling ethical values, effective communication, teamwork, and professional conduct in aspiring architects. Emphasizing the practical realities of the architectural profession, this phase prepares students for successful engagement within the architectural industry and the broader community.

The practice and professionalism component serves as a foundation for students to develop the skills, attitudes, and behaviors necessary for becoming responsible and competent architects.

Course Component 9 : Social Media Marketing

A social media campaign for our design-build studio course involves leveraging digital platforms to showcase and engage with the design process, progress, and outcomes of the studio projects. It serves as a dynamic and interactive means of communicating the students' creative journey, design concepts, and final architectural solutions to a wider audience, including peers, instructors, professionals, and the public. This campaign enhances visibility, fosters community engagement, and provides a platform for sharing the students' innovative work.

Course Policies

Communication + Feedback

Effective communication is crucial for a productive and collaborative learning environment in a design-build studio course. This policy outlines guidelines and expectations for communication among students, instructors, and other stakeholders involved in the course.

1. Communication Channels:

• Instructor-Student Communication: Instructors will primarily communicate through the course management system (Canvas) and official university email. Urgent announcements may also be made in-person during studio sessions.
• Student-Student Communication: Students are encouraged to use designated communication channels (e.g., discussion forums, messaging platforms) within the course management system to discuss project-related matters.

2. Response Times:

• Instructor Response: Instructors will respond to student inquiries within 24-48 hours on business days. Responses may take longer during weekends, holidays, or exceptional circumstances.
• Peer Response: Students are encouraged to respond to their peers' inquiries and discussions promptly, fostering a collaborative and supportive studio environment.

3. Studio Sessions:

• Scheduled Studio Sessions: In-person studio sessions are designated for direct engagement, design discussions, reviews, and presentations. Attendance is mandatory, and punctuality is expected.

4. Assignment Submissions:

• All assignments, including design work, reports, and presentations, must be submitted according to the specified deadlines through the designated submission platform.
• Late submissions will result in penalties, unless accommodations have been approved due to extenuating circumstances.

5. Professional and Respectful Communication:

• All communication, whether written or verbal, should be respectful, professional, and constructive.
• Constructive criticism is encouraged during critiques and discussions, focusing on design improvement and creative exploration.

6. Group Collaboration:

• Group projects require open and transparent communication within the team. Regular meetings and effective communication tools are essential for successful collaboration.
• Conflict resolution within teams should prioritize respectful discussions and finding mutually beneficial solutions.

7. Online Communication Etiquette:

• All written communication should be clear, concise, and free of grammatical errors.
• Use of appropriate language, tone, and etiquette is expected in all interactions, whether in-person or online.

8. Privacy and Confidentiality:

• Respect the privacy and confidentiality of personal information shared within the course context.
• Avoid sharing sensitive or personal information without permission.

9. Emergency Communication:

• In case of emergencies that affect the course schedule or activities, instructors will communicate promptly through official university channels.

10. Updates and Modifications:

• The communication policy may be subject to updates or modifications. Students will be informed of any changes through the course management system and official email.

By adhering to this communication policy, students, instructors, and stakeholders can create a positive and productive learning environment that supports effective collaboration, respectful discourse, and the achievement of the course objectives.

Late Policy

Timely completion of assignments and projects is crucial for a successful learning experience in our design-build studio course. This policy outlines the guidelines and procedures for handling late submissions of assignments and projects.

1. Submission Deadlines:

• All assignments and projects have specified deadlines, clearly communicated in the course syllabus and assignment instructions.
• Students are responsible for adhering to these deadlines and planning their work accordingly.

2. Late Submissions:

• Late submissions will be subject to a penalty unless prior arrangements have been made with the instructor due to extenuating circumstances.
• The penalty for late submissions is as follows: 10% deduction per day, up to a maximum of 50%

3. Communication of Late Submissions:

• Students who anticipate submitting their work after the deadline must communicate with the instructor before the due date to request an extension and provide a valid reason.
• Requests for extensions should be made through official university email and should include a brief explanation for the delay and a proposed new submission date.

4. Valid Reasons for Extensions:

• Valid reasons for extensions may include medical emergencies, family emergencies, documented illness, or other unforeseen circumstances beyond the student's control.
• Students are encouraged to communicate as soon as they anticipate a potential delay.

5. Documentation for Extensions:

• Students requesting extensions based on medical or personal reasons are required to provide appropriate documentation to support their request.
• Documentation should be submitted to the instructor within a reasonable timeframe after the request has been made.

6. Maximum Allowable Extension:

• The maximum allowable extension for any assignment or project is 48 hours beyond the original deadline.

7. No Extensions for Critique and Review Days:

• No extensions will be granted for assignments or projects due on days designated for critique, review, or presentation sessions.

8. Impact on Final Grades:

• Consistent late submissions will impact a student's overall performance and final grade in the course.
• Frequent or significant late submissions demonstrate a lack of commitment to the course and could affect the instructor's evaluation of the student's progress.

9. Communication and Feedback:

• Instructors will provide timely feedback on late submissions, even if penalties are applied, to ensure that students can learn from their work and improve their performance.

By adhering to this late work policy, students can develop effective time management skills, prioritize assignments, and take responsibility for meeting deadlines. This policy is designed to strike a balance between accommodating legitimate reasons for late submissions and maintaining the integrity and fairness of the course evaluation process.

Plagiarism 

Plagiarism is the most common form of academic misconduct at OU. There is basically no college-level assignment that can be satisfactorily completed by copying. OU's basic assumption about writing is that all written assignments show the student's own understanding in the student's own words. That means all writing assignments, in class or out, are assumed to be composed entirely of words generated (not simply found) by the student, except where words written by someone else are specifically marked as such with proper citation. Including other people's words in your paper is helpful when you do it honestly and correctly. When you don't, it's plagiarism. 

For more information about plagiarism, watch this video and then take this short course offered by University Libraries.

College of Architecture Policies

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University Academic Policies and Student Support

Land Acknowledgement

Long before the University of Oklahoma was established, the land on which the University now resides was the traditional home of the “Hasinais” Caddo Nation and “Kirikirʔi:s” Wichita & Affiliated Tribes.

We acknowledge this territory once also served as a hunting ground, trade exchange point, and migration route for the Apache, Comanche, Kiowa and Osage nations. Today, 39 tribal nations dwell in the state of Oklahoma as a result of settler and colonial policies that were designed to assimilate Native people.

The University of Oklahoma recognizes the historical connection our university has with its indigenous community. We acknowledge, honor and respect the diverse Indigenous peoples connected to this land. We fully recognize, support and advocate for the sovereign rights of all of Oklahoma’s 39 tribal nations. This acknowledgment is aligned with our university’s core value of creating a diverse and inclusive community. It is an institutional responsibility to recognize and acknowledge the people, culture and history that make up our entire OU Community.

Course Catalog 

Search the OU Course Catalog.

Student Handbook

Please familiarize yourself with the OU Student Handbook.

Online Library

Access digital materials and other resources at OU Libraries.

Copyright Statement

Sessions of this course may be recorded or live-streamed. These recordings are the intellectual property of the individual faculty member and may not be shared or reproduced without the explicit, written consent of the faculty member. In addition, privacy rights of others such as students, guest lecturers, and providers of copyrighted material displayed in the recording may be of concern. Students may not share any course recordings with individuals not enrolled in the class or upload them to any other online environment.

Academic Integrity

As a member of the OU community, it is your responsibility to protect your educational investment by knowing and following the rules. The Student Code is available from the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, and is contained in the Student's Guide to Academic Integrity. 

Academic honesty is incredibly important within this course. Cheating is strictly prohibited at the University of Oklahoma, because it devalues the degree you are working hard to get. Should you know of someone else engaging in academic misconduct, please report it to your instructor or directly to the Office of Academic Integrity. Your instructor has a professional obligation to report academic misconduct. 

In addition to the course conduct policies outlined by your professor in the Course Syllabus in the online classroom, please review the Graduate Student Handbook. 

Religious Observance

It is the policy of the University to excuse the absences of students that result from religious observances and to reschedule examinations and additional required classwork that may fall on religious holidays, without penalty. [See Faculty Handbook 3.15.2].

Reasonable Accommodation for Disabilities

The Accessibility and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) is committed to supporting students with disabilities to ensure that they are able to enjoy equal access to all components of their education. This includes your academics, housing, and community events.

If you are experiencing a disability, a mental/medical health condition that has a significant impact on one or more life functions, you can receive accommodations to provide equal access. Possible disabilities include but are not limited to learning disabilities, AD(H)D, mental health, and chronic health. Additionally, we support students with temporary medical conditions (broken wrist, shoulder surgery, etc.) and pregnancy.

To discuss potential accommodations, please contact the ADRC at 730 College Avenue, (phone) 405-325-3852, or adrc@ou.edu.

Title IX Resources  

Anyone who has been impacted by gender-based violence, including dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, harassment, and sexual assault, deserves access to resources so that they are supported personally and academically.

The University of Oklahoma is committed to offering resources to those impacted, including: speaking with someone confidentially about your options, medical attention, counseling, reporting, academic support, and safety plans. If you would like to speak with someone confidentially, please contact OU Advocates (available 24/7 at 405-615-0013) or another confidential resource (see "Can I make an anonymous report?").

You may also choose to report gender-based violence and discrimination through other means, including by contacting the Institutional Equity Office (ieo@ou.edu, 405-325-3546) or the police (911).

Because the University of Oklahoma is committed to the safety of you and other students, I, as well as other faculty, Graduate Assistants, and Teaching Assistants, are mandatory reporters. This means that we are obligated to report gender-based violence that has been disclosed to us to the Institutional Equity Office. This includes disclosures that occur in class discussions, writing assignments, discussion boards, emails, and during Student/Office Hours.

For more information, please visit the Institutional Equity Office.

Adjustments for Pregnancy/Childbirth Related Issues

Should you need modifications or adjustments to your course requirements because of documented pregnancy-related or childbirth-related issues, please contact me as soon as possible to discuss your options. Generally, modifications will be made where medically necessary and similar in scope to accommodations based on temporary disability. Learn more about the rights of pregnant and parenting students by consulting the FAQ sheets provided by the Institutional Equity Office.

Mental Health Support Services

If you are experiencing any mental health issues that are impacting your academic performance, counseling is available at the University Counseling Center (UCC). The Center is located on the second floor of the Goddard Health Center, at 620 Elm Rm. 201, Norman, OK 73019. To schedule an appointment, call 405-325-2911. For more information, please visit the University Counseling Center.

Final Exam Preparation Period

Pre-finals week will be defined as the seven calendar days before the first day of finals. Faculty may cover new course material throughout this week. For specific provisions of the policy please refer to OU's Final Exam Preparation Period policy.

Required Policies for Students On Campus

Emergency Protocol

During an emergency, there are official university procedures that will maximize your safety.

Severe Weather: If you receive an OU Alert to seek refuge or hear a tornado siren that signals severe weather:

1. Look for severe weather refuge location maps located inside most OU buildings near the entrances
2. Seek refuge inside a building. Do not leave one building to seek shelter in another building that you deem safer. If outside, get into the nearest building.
3. Go to the building’s severe weather refuge location. If you do not know where that is, go to the lowest level possible and seek refuge in an innermost room. Avoid outside doors and windows.
4. Get in, Get Down, Cover Up.
5. Wait for official notice to resume normal activities.

Severe Weather Refuge Areas

Severe Weather Preparedness Video

Armed Subject/Campus Intruder

If you receive an OU Alert to shelter-in-place due to an active shooter or armed intruder situation or you hear what you perceive to be gunshots:

1. Avoid: If you believe you can get out of the area without encountering the armed individual, move quickly towards the nearest building exit, move away from the building, and call 911.
2. Deny: If you cannot flee, move to an area that can be locked or barricaded, turn off lights, silence devices, spread out, and formulate a plan of attack if the shooter enters the room.
3. Defend: As a last resort fight to defend yourself. For more information, visit:

OU's Emergency Preparedness site

Shots Fire on Campus Procedure

Fire Alarm/General Emergency

If you receive an OU Alert that there is danger inside or near the building, or the fire alarm inside the building activates:

1. Leave the building. Do not use the elevators.
2. Know at least two building exits
3. Assist those that may need help
4. Proceed to the emergency assembly area
5. Once safely outside, Notify first responders of anyone that may still be inside the building due to mobility issues.
6. Wait for official notice before attempting to re-enter the building.

OU Fire Safety on Campus Video