During the first six months in the program, students are comprehensively trained in the principles of design and construction of advanced ecological buildings through a series of focused and intense modules, which include material production, thermal and metabolic building systems, ecological structures and façade systems and much more. After developing the necessary skills and a holistic understanding of advanced and ecological design, students collectively draft and build a full scale ecological building prototype.
The Ecological Intelligence course equips students with the skills to understand, apply, analyze, and critically evaluate key terminologies, scientific advancements, and socio-cultural perspectives related to the design and construction of the built environment, especially in the context of global climate change. Ecological intelligence is the ability to understand and navigate the complex relationships between living systems and their environments. It involves recognizing the interconnectedness of all elements both natural and man-made, as well as considering the broader impacts of our decisions. This form of intelligence goes beyond simple cause and effect, embracing the intricate networks and interdependencies that shape ecosystems. By cultivating ecological intelligence, we can make more informed choices that promote sustainability, foster resilience, and ensure a harmonious balance between human activity and the planet’s health.
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“The vernacular has always embodied a kind of instinctive ecological intelligence — evolving over time with a sensitivity to resources, energy, and context.” – Dr. Ahmet Eyüce As architecture continues to scale upward, streamline processes, and globalize its language, I find myself drawn to the quiet wisdom of vernacular architecture — the kind that emerges … Read more
