The first set of lectures provides a chronological overview of the
architectural and urban development of Barcelona, from the Roman period to
the present day. Significant historical moments and major architectural
movements are examined through local (Catalunya), regional (Iberian
peninsula), and international (pan-European) lenses.
The second set of lectures presents case studies of four significant
architectural projects. Diachronic in scope, the case studies reveal the
complex social, cultural, and architectural palimpsest that is Barcelona.
The background lectures for the case studies are complemented by on-site
analysis. Site analysis comprises of a series of structured observation and
documentation exercises.
The course problematizes both its location (Barcelona) and
situation (a ten-week 'study abroad' residency). Explicit attention is
drawn to the de-centering that travel sponsors, and to the shifting
vantage and roles (tourist, student, short-term resident) that the
students experience over the ten-week period. During discussions students
are asked to frame their experiences of Barcelona, and of Atlanta, in
terms of each other. For the final essay, they are asked to compare how
discussions regarding urban form, public space, and architectural quality,
are framed in Barcelona and in the United States.
The readings are drawn from a variety of sources: architectural history,
urban design, planning history, cultural studies, tourist studies, art
practice, and the political and cultural history of Catalunya.
Experience in reading objects, buildings and
spaces in the city.
Course Overview
Architectural history of the city of Barcelona and its public spaces, with
a focus on the major urban and architectural projects through which
Barcelona continually recreates and promotes itself. Special attention is
paid to the International Expositions of 1888 and 1928, the
well-publicized design culture of the post-Franco eighties, and the
metropolitan transformations put into motion by the 1992 Olympics and
continuing with the projects spearheaded by international developers.
Learning Objectives
A familiarity with the full range of architecture and design in
Barcelona.
An awareness of the artifacts and conventions that structure
the tourist experience.
A familiarity with the political, social, and historical determinants of
architecture and urban design in Barcelona.
An understanding of the role architecture and design play in the cultural and
public life of Barcelona.
Experience in using different media and genres of
observation and description.
Course Requirements
In-class Participation. 10%
Final, Take-home Essay. 20%
Analysis. Observation, description, and analysis of architectural/urban projects.
30%.
Passages. Exploratory cuts through the city, in time and in space.
Text/image presentations. 40%