Subjects in this Module Area include general construction techniques, building materials, building chemistry, building physics, building technology and constructive conservation of buildings, in addition to the preservation of cultural monuments, the basic history and sociology of city development, buildings, building technology, general technology, and art history. Students profit from work groups, in which they are exposed to selected examples of culturally-specific buildings.

Modules offered in this area:

Conservation and Building in Existing Fabric
The module conveys the interdisciplinary skills needed to properly analyse and evaluate historical buildings and urban structures, and to develop the design and planning strategies that are needed for building activities in protected ensembles. Basics of conservation and examples of different design strategies within existing built structures will be taught in separate lectures. The methods presented in the lectures will be discussed and evaluated in joint seminars and tutorials. Further knowledge and skills will be imparted through small impromptu exercises.

Archaeology and History of Architecture
Students will acquire competence in the evaluation of archaeological research methods and outcomes. They will learn to describe material heritage issues and to assess the cultural relevance of buildings.

Applied Art History and Museology
The Applied Art History section of the module is focused on art, architecture and design, with particular emphasis on art from the 19th century to the present. Museology introduces students to the history of museums, as well as how modern museums function and develop. Students will learn to decipher the nexus of the exhibited objects and architecture of a museum. Questions concerning restoration issues are posed and answered. Students will come into contact with epochal exhibitions in an international context.

Urban Planning
Students acquire detailed knowledge with respect to the challenges and current trends involved in urban planning and development. The module discusses political, economic, social and cultural trends and projections (e.g. demographic change, leisure and consumer attitudes, new forms of work and employment, globalisation) and their spatial impact on the local, national and international level. Students learn about, and understand the consequences of social change processes and their impact on the assignment and combination of urban functions in the form of strategic plans and concepts.

Architecture, City, Space
This aim of this module is to relate a basic understanding of the complexity of architecture, space and urban planning in relation to World Heritage sites. An initial insight into a wide range of different architectural and urban design topics will help students to understand and appraise architectural and urban environments. The module focuses on imparting basic structural and construction related knowledge, but also gives students an initial comprehension of architectural tools and media, as well as a basic understanding of architectural, urban and spatial concepts. It also helps students to apply and to deepen acquired knowledge.