master of science in architecture

Master of Science in Architecture

Study at La Salle and obtain the master's degree to become a great architect with all the responsibilities

Final thesis

Description
The Final Project course in the Master's in Architecture program is designed to advance specific design solutions for a particular location and project in Barcelona. This practical course is based on methodologies that integrate critical analysis to refine architectural proposals. Students will explore how to optimize their designs by considering the unique characteristics of the urban context of Barcelona, combining creativity with a functional and sustainable approach. Additionally, the course emphasizes the harmonious integration between the city’s historical and cultural heritage and the contemporary needs of the architectural program, preparing future architects to lead contextually sensitive projects.
Type Subject
Primer - Obligatoria
Semester
Annual
Course
1
Credits
30.00
Previous Knowledge

Degree in Architecture Studies or Fundamentals of Architecture

Objectives

The objective of the course Final Project is to develop in students critical skills in the correction and evolution of architectural design through the practical application of innovative methodologies and the use of advanced technological tools. The aim is for students to acquire competencies to integrate historical and cultural contextualization into their proposals, thus contributing to the sustainable and socially inclusive development of architectural environments.

COMPETENCIES
Basic and general:
IS1 - Able to analyze and synthesize conceptual frameworks, generating new knowledge.
IS9 - Able to solve architectural problems.
IS10 - Able to make decisions (in projects, construction systems, organization, etc.)

Specific:
PFC - Preparation, presentation, and defense, once all undergraduate and master's credits have been obtained, of an original exercise carried out individually before a university tribunal. The tribunal must include at least one professional of recognized prestige proposed by professional organizations. The exercise will consist of a comprehensive architectural project of a professional nature, synthesizing all the competencies acquired during the degree, developed to the point of demonstrating sufficient ability to ensure the complete execution of the building works in question, in compliance with the applicable technical and administrative regulations.

Contents

The syllabus covers everything from the initial conceptualization to the development of the executive project, guiding students through critical phases of correction and development of architectural design. The courses include project management practices and the application of construction legislation, thus complementing training in leadership and professional ethics. A collaborative and sustainable approach is promoted, preparing future architects to lead aesthetically innovative and environmentally responsible projects, capable of effectively communicating their proposals graphically and orally in various contexts.

Methodology

The pedagogical framework of the course is structured around advanced architectural design and correction practice, utilizing hands-on workshops where students apply collaborative methodologies and simulation techniques. The integration of historical and cultural contextualization is emphasized as a fundamental part of the creative process, supported by international experts and visits to relevant architectural sites to enrich students' global perspective.

Evaluation

10% Project corrections
10% Presentations
10% Project jury
70% Project development

Evaluation Criteria

1 - Project corrections - 10% of the total grade:
This criterion evaluates regular attendance and active, constructive participation in classes and workshops.

2 - Presentations: Project Exhibition - 10% of the total grade:
The quality of oral and written presentations will be assessed, including clarity in presenting ideas and the graphic quality of supporting materials (such as slides, diagrams, or images).

3 - Project jury - 10% for individual work and critical presentation.

4 - Project development - 70% of the total grade:
This criterion assesses the student’s ability to argue and defend the rationale behind the chosen design solutions.

Basic Bibliography

- The architecture of the city; Aldo Rossi; Editorial GG, 1966
- Complexity and Contradiction in Architecture; Robert Venturi, MoMA, 1966
- Delirious New York; Rem Koolhaas; Oxford University Press, 1978
- Made in Tokyo; Atelier Bow-Bow; Kajima Institute Publishing, 2003
- The Craftsman; Richard Sennett; Yale University Press, 2008
- La mano que piensa; Juhani Pallasma; Editorial GG, 2012
- Habitar la Terra; Bruno Latour, Arcadia, 2023
- Junya Ishigami: another scale of architecture; Seigensa art publishing, 2011

Additional Material

- In Defense of a Logical Architecture and Other Essays; Alejandro de la Sota, 2G, 2021
- Técnica y Arquitectura en la Ciudad Contemporánea; Iñaki Ábalos y Juan Herreros, Nerea, 2000
- Glenn Murcutt. Inside Simpson-Lee House; Calmo Editions, 2022
- Las Medidas en Arquitectura; Enrique Steegman, Jose Acebillo, Gustavo Gili, 2008
- Jørn Utzon Logbook: the complete works: Volumes I - V; Ed. Blondal, 2004