This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
Non-permanent architectural structures have a long history, form and function changing with technological developments and shifting societal needs and desires. In this module students will investigate this development through lectures and seminars and practice based exercises. Nomadic tent structures, market stalls, festival stages and stadium shows that arrive in a dozen articulated wagons will be investigated in terms of social context, habitation and transportation. The structural geometry of Buckminster Fuller's geodesic domes and tensegrity will inform student's work with an emphasis on craft and simple engineering. This will involve hands on exploration of materials, structures, construction techniques, fixings and function. Finding out how structures remain stable, students will engage in thinking and learning through making. Multiple re-use and environmental sustainability will be an important consideration.
Students will design and develop modular systems that can have various functions and applications. For example; exhibition stands, display units, pop up retail units. The modular system will be experimental and may be realised in a combination of materials at different scales.
Total contact hours: 48
Total private study hours: 252
Total module study hours: 300
Main assessment methods
Portfolio (100%)
Reassessment methods
Like-for-like
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The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages: https://kent.rl.talis.com/index.html
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Conduct research and learning into the subject of temporary, mobile, and modular spaces and environments.
2. Produce spatial design work which demonstrates a clear understanding of materiality, detailing, fabrication and environmental factors
3. Generate and apply dynamic and original concepts applied meaningfully to a design process and outcome
4. Demonstrate and integrate an awareness of sustainable values and concepts throughout process and project
5. Articulate detailed spatial design at a variety of scales including small scale details and prototypes.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate a capacity for information gathering techniques using a wide range of sources, providing visual, contextual and industry case study research
2. Systematically plan, carry through and manage a project programme in a given time
3. Reflect critically on own ideas by becoming more open and acquainted with unfamiliar ideas and practices and material processes
4. Use Information and Communications Technology
5. Prepare and manage well-supported critical analyses (written, visual and oral) and practical presentations based on theory and practical projects
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