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Course Descriptions
Interested in taking a single class? Some courses (designated by a below) may be open on a space-available basis to those who are not seeking to complete the entire course sequence. See Single-Course Enrollment for details.
Autumn Course
The House as Architecture: Part 1
Schedule: Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m., Sept. 24-Dec. 3, 2008; UW campus; $685; 3 credits. Instructor: William Zimmerman.
Beginning with a review of the history of residential architecture illustrated by outstanding examples of residential design, this course explores the house as architecture. Students examine houses of different sizes (from very, very small to very, very large), styles (from traditional to modern), as well as at different price ranges, identifying as they do so a variety of issues and problems. Students gain a basic understanding of the design process, learn about the production of documents such as drawings, specifications and contracts, as well as basic budgeting concepts. They also review the building and land use codes related to their particular project or piece of property and learn about the role and services of the architect and related consultants. By describing, listing and discussing the features that they want in a house, and the uses, feel and character of the resulting spaces, participants individually explore the creation of their own programs for design of a new house, addition or major remodel.
A number of guest experts visit the class—architects, and design/build professionals—to provide different ideas, viewpoints and perspectives and to share with the class recently completed houses. Throughout the course, students compile an idea notebook with information that illustrates their ideas for the architect. Students complete the course with a draft of a project proposal for a new house, addition or major remodel.
How to sign up for individual enrollment in this course
Winter Course
The House as Architecture: Part 2 
Schedule: Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m., Jan. 7-Mar. 11, 2009, UW campus, Seattle; $685; 3 credits. Instructor: Bruce Donnally.
This quarter will focus on two major subjects: how the house relates to the environment, and the choice of materials and finishes for the interior and exterior.
We will start with a look at the history of how man has seen his relationship to nature, how this has influenced the design of houses around the world for thousands of years, and how that history informs our design of houses today. This study will continue with design ideas for connecting interior spaces with the exterior while still providing effective weather protection. We will also look at the design of exterior spaces themselves using planting and hardscape materials. Guest speakers will discuss landscape design, trees selection and protection and plant materials. Sustainable design issues will be integrated into every lecture.
In the second half of the quarter, we will explore the broad field of material choices, from exterior cladding, roofing, doors and windows to interior flooring, cabinetry, counters fixtures and other surface finishes. Presentations are supplemented by visits from tradespeople, who bring materials samples to class and share their knowledge and experience about what makes one choice more expensive than another, how long to expect specific materials to last, appropriate and inappropriate applications, proper installation techniques, and a host of other useful and relevant information.
How to sign up for individual enrollment in this course
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