Green Building - non-engagement course

Prerequisites: All OF THE FOLLOWING: ARTDES 200: Any 200 Level Studio.

Description: What does a Green Building really look like? What makes them better than non-green buildings? What is the role of buildings in climate change? How can buildings create a healthy climate and healthy living? This course explores the history and contemporary perspective of green building with special emphasis on design concepts and natural building. During the semester you will research the history of green building, understand its modern context in sustainable culture, become familiar with various green building practices, and understand the green building certification schemes used in North America. You will familiarize yourself with the Campus Farm Straw Bale Building and other UM campus green buildings. In addition to a handful of smaller exercises, you will complete two independent design proposals. The first design proposal will focus on UM housing and a second design will be of your choosing. We will visit the Trumpey Farmstead, the Campus Farm, and a couple of deep green homes in Washtenaw County. This course is relevant to anyone who uses buildings of any kind!

Frequency: This course is offered occasionally in the winter term.