Course title
S02790012
Design of Building Systems

KADO Keita

KOSUGE Ruka
Middle-level Diploma Policy (mDP)
Program / Major mDP Goals
Department of Architecture 4. 4.建築設計や建築技術に関する体系的な専門知識を身につけ、それらを応用することができる
Purpose of class
Architectural construction is the field of study concerned with the composition and assembly of building components and materials. When speaking of “composition” in architecture, one might first think of spatial organization such as zoning or planning. However, the composition of space and the composition of physical elements exist in a figure–ground relationship, and spatial performance is inseparably linked to material assembly. In other words, to create high-quality space, knowledge of construction methods is essential.

This course introduces the fundamental knowledge and principles of architectural construction, examining both primary structural systems and component-level construction in terms of their composition and roles, supported by case studies. The objectives of the course are to enable students to recognize and perceive construction systems embedded in the buildings around them, and to develop the ability to propose design solutions that take construction methods into account in design studios and related courses.
Course description
Architecture is required to meet a wide range of performance criteria, including the protection of life and property, the provision of comfort, and the capacity for long-term and stable use. Architectural construction refers to the methods of assembling components and materials in order to satisfy these performance requirements. Productivity—namely, the ease with which materials can be obtained and fabricated—is also an important consideration. Knowledge of architectural construction is therefore indispensable for the rational realization of buildings suited to their intended purposes.

In this course, students will first learn about the performance requirements of buildings and the factors that influence them. The course will then examine primary construction systems related to the structural frame of a building, as well as component-level construction methods concerning elements attached to the structure, such as openings and staircases.

Since both primary systems and component-level construction are closely related to architectural form, the course will incorporate hands-on learning using SketchUp, enabling students to manipulate three-dimensional models whenever possible. Although not mandatory, bringing a laptop computer to class is strongly recommended.
Please note that the schedule below may be adjusted, including changes to the order of topics, depending on the progress of the lectures.
Goals and objectives
  1. To understand the performance requirements of buildings and the factors that influence them.
  2. To understand the fundamental knowledge and principles of architectural construction methods.
  3. To understand the composition of primary structural systems and component-level construction, as well as the roles of their respective elements.
  4. To be able to observe and analyze architecture from the perspective of construction methods.
  5. To understand the significance of component details in contemporary architecture and the fundamentals of construction systems.
Relationship between 'Goals and Objectives' and 'Course Outcomes'

Weekly reports Final exam Total.
1. 10% 5% 15%
2. 20% 5% 25%
3. 15% 10% 25%
4. 15% 5% 20%
5. 10% 5% 15%
Total. 70% 30% -
Evaluation method and criteria
Evaluation will be based on coursework (70%) and a final examination (30%). The coursework grade includes reports for each class, as well as attendance and class participation.
Language
Japanese
Class schedule

Class schedule HW assignments (Including preparation and review of the class.) Amount of Time Required
1. Introduction: What is Architectural Construction? / Architectural Construction in relation to materials, performance, and the design process / Introduction to SketchUp Preparation of report assignment 120minutes
2. Architectural Construction, Production, and Tools / What Are Primary Structural Systems? Reading assigned textbook sections; preparation of weekly report 120minutes
3. Primary Structural Systems (1): Timber, Steel, Reinforced Concrete, etc.
(The order will be coordinated with Spatial Architectural Design Studio 3, offered concurrently.)
Reading assigned textbook sections; preparation of weekly report 120minutes
4. Primary Structural Systems (2): Timber, Steel, Reinforced Concrete, etc.
(Order coordinated with Spatial Architectural Design Studio 3.)
Reading assigned textbook sections; preparation of weekly report 120minutes
5. Primary Structural Systems (3): Timber, Steel, Reinforced Concrete, etc.
(Order coordinated with Spatial Architectural Design Studio 3.)
Reading assigned textbook sections; preparation of weekly report 120minutes
6. Primary Structural Systems (4): Timber, Steel, Reinforced Concrete, etc.
(Order coordinated with Spatial Architectural Design Studio 3.)
Reading assigned textbook sections; preparation of weekly report 120minutes
7. Primary Structural Systems (5): Timber, Steel, Reinforced Concrete, etc.
(Order coordinated with Spatial Architectural Design Studio 3.)
Preparation of midterm report; review – 180 minutes 180minutes
8. Midterm Report Presentations and Review / What Are Component-Level Construction Methods? Reading assigned textbook sections; preparation of weekly report 120minutes
9. Component-Level Construction: Roofs, Waterproofing, and Rain Protection Reading assigned textbook sections; preparation of weekly report 120minutes
10. Component-Level Construction: Exterior Walls and Curtain Walls (1) Reading assigned textbook sections; preparation of weekly report 120minutes
11. Component-Level Construction: Exterior Walls and Curtain Walls (2) Reading assigned textbook sections; preparation of weekly report 120minutes
12. Component-Level Construction: Groundwork and Foundations Reading assigned textbook sections; preparation of weekly report 120minutes
13. Component-Level Construction: Stairs Reading assigned textbook sections; preparation of weekly report 120minutes
14. Final Report / Course Review and Summary Preparation of final report; review 180minutes
Total. - - 1800minutes
Feedback on exams, assignments, etc.
ways of feedback specific contents about "Other"
Feedback in the class
Textbooks and reference materials
・Handouts distributed in each class
・改定版 図説 建築構法(学芸出版社、ISBN-10: 4761526858、ISBN-13: 978-4761526856)
Prerequisites
Office hours and How to contact professors for questions
  • The instructor’s email address for inquiries will be provided during the lecture.
Regionally-oriented
Non-regionally-oriented course
Development of social and professional independence
  • Course that cultivates an ability for utilizing knowledge
  • Course that cultivates a basic problem-solving skills
Active-learning course
About half of the classes are interactive
Course by professor with work experience
Work experience Work experience and relevance to the course content if applicable
N/A N/A
Education related SDGs:the Sustainable Development Goals
  • 7.AFFORDABLE AND CLEAN ENERGY
  • 9.INDUSTRY, INNOVATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
  • 11.SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND COMMUNITIES
  • 12.RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION & PRODUCTION
  • 13.CLIMATE ACTION
Last modified : Sat Mar 14 14:32:16 JST 2026