Defining a Pedagogical Framework for Integrating Buildings and Landscapes in Conjunction with Social Sustainability Discourse in the Architecture Graduate Design Studio

Abstract

The primary objective of this research is to define a pedagogy framework for architecture Graduate Design Studio. The proposed pedagogy framework pursues the following three principal objectives: The first objective focuses on buildings and landscapes and the interconnection between them. Such connectivity facilitates a ground for walkability. The second goal is to incorporate green elements within buildings and landscapes with regard to increasing the percentage of available green spaces within contemporary and future cities, which may encourage human respect for nature. The third objective promotes the notion that contemporary and future built environments should be envisioned as environments wherein fresh local food can be cultivated, processed and distributed. It incorporates urban agriculture within buildings and landscapes. The Graduate Studio pedagogy focuses on the concept of social sustainability. The three mentioned objectives of the framework are in line with the core concept of social sustainability, which includes improving the well-being and quality of life of contemporary and future urban dwellers. Overall, the Graduate Studio envisions buildings and landscapes as pedestrian environments, as grounds where green elements are incorporated and local fresh food is cultivated. The mentioned framework has been implemented within the Graduate Studio. Four design project samples are presented as successful precedents.