Architectural Education | Off the Record
By Vincent Hui
Architectural Education | Off the RecordOct 28, 2020
Guest Interview | Court Sin
Continuing with our look at the diversity of architectural practices, we are joined by Court Sin, Studio Director- Architecture, at FORREC, a multidisciplinary company with an exciting and eclectic portfolio of entertainment architecture ranging from retail and museums to theme parks. An established architect with teaching experience, Court brings his insights on the intertwined future of architecture, narrative, and media.
FORREC Website: www.forrec.com/
FORREC Instagram: @forrecdesigns
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/forrec/mycompany/
Twitter = @forrecdesigns
Graduate School Applications
Just as the academic term draws to an end and students begin recovering from deadlines and exams, another issue continues to simmer in the background – graduate school applications. In this episode we are joined by several students set to embark upon their Master of Architecture degrees at institutions near and far. Discussing everything from the challenges of proper preparation (hint: it’s not just a portfolio) for application through to factors that weigh in on making a decision, this episode covers a range of facets many students face in considering continuing their architectural education. With insights from Sophie, Monika, Shengnan, Lena, Tanya, and Liane, this is an episode loaded with tips that helped them get into their programs. It is never too early to start!
Time Management and Learning Supports
Deadline season is around the corner and rather than brace for the inevitable stress and crunch, why not consider taking a moment to sort out project priorities and more importantly, undertake in some proper time management? While architecture students are smart, for some reason they do not necessarily learn from past mistakes. In this episode we present ways to address time management in architectural education. We are joined by Ann Wilkin, Learning Strategist, from the Student Skills and transition Support, Student Life and Learning Support group at Ryerson University who offers tips for students in anticipation of not only the immediate deadline season but also future academic and professional development. We also expose Ann to the "unique" conditions in architecture with perspectives from Daniel and Cason. Lots of eye-opening information going both ways in this episode!
Ryerson Student Life and Learning Site
https://www.ryerson.ca/student-life-and-learning/
Holistic Time Management Presentation
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1JRY1GTlDyZsDfnwW5-BiLt6CnDTui2Zu-VZXBGDToFE/edit#slide=id.gb7c24f3d3e_0_75
Urgency Priority Grid
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2KVCB0Z75uIRlzP9gUZ5LD1WXWBjjxbJcTaLFY8sqQ/edit
If you need to reach out for direct support, please feel free to contact slls@ryerson.ca
High School Q&A
In response to the flurry of inquiries from applicants and high school students about the Department of Architectural Science, we determined that it was about time to bring the voices to the same table. In this episode we are joined by high school students, Connor and Fatima, who pose questions to a panel of current and past DAS students including Tamoy, Tabitha, and Mariah. Applicants are receiving offers and we are delivering answers - hear the various perspectives on getting in and through the program!
Ryerson Admissions Twitter handle: https://twitter.com/WhyRyerson
Ryerson Admissions Instagram handle: https://www.instagram.com/WhyRyerson/
Ryerson Admissions Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WhyRyerson
Guest Interview | Jason Fung
Architect, Ryerson DAS alumnus, employer, and all-round good person, Jason Fung joins us in a great conversation about actually making it on his own with his own architecture firm. While many graduates and students work in larger organizations, others enjoy a greater sense of agency and freedom in operating their own design practices. Beyond ambition, there are many facets of the business of architecture that emerging practitioners need to be mindful of ranging from IT and accounting systems through to talent and client acquisition. Even though these types of challenges might not be top of mind for enthusiastic architecture students, Jason provides us with stories that offer a great glimpse into some of the business aspects of architecture often skimmed through in architecture curricula.
Website: www.jasonfungarchitect.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonfungarchitect/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JasonFungArchitect
Email: info@jasonfung.ca
Faculty Discussion
If we think back to our education, we can all remember the best and worst instructors and how they impacted our perspectives on topics. We also know that they are (for better or worse) unforgettable. The Department of Architectural Science is currently conducting an extremely ambitious hiring search for three new faculty members, each reflecting one of the facets of the program (Architecture, Building Science, and Project Management). In this episode we are joined by Clare, Christopher, and Heba who share their perspectives on what they would want to see in a new faculty members as well as get an insight on the three major duties faculty have to undertake.
Guest Interview | Peter Marshall
Ever thought about taking your architectural education into other industries like visualization, game design, or theme park design? Ever wondered what happens if you take a bit longer to complete your studies? Well, you're in luck with this podcast episode where we have an extensive chat with Peter Marshall, Creative Director at Forrec Ltd. From translating his acumen with visualization in architecture school into a lighting designer role at Rockstar Games Inc. to creating theme parks around the world and bringing properties to life, Peter's career reinforces a core facet for success in many industries, most notably architecture - the role of narrative. Join us in this episode as we chat about everything from shutting down campus' computer mainframes for renderings to translating John Wick into a ride.
Peter Marshall's Instagram: @peterabmarshall
Peter's perspectives on design innovations:
https://www.forrec.com/blog/the-theme-park-of-the-future-how-current-design-innovations-inform-provocative-predictions/
Forrec's Twitter: @forrecdesigns
The upcoming John Wick Ride:
https://variety.com/2020/film/news/john-wick-now-you-see-me-lionsgate-roller-coasters-1234809174/
Curricular Comparison
It's that time of year again where applicants are starting to receive offers of admission into postsecondary programs. Though we don't go explicitly talk about other programs, we take a moment to round out our ongoing series for first year applicants specifically looking at what the Department of Architectural Science curriculum offers its students. All accredited programs are good and provide their students with a solid education in architecture; however they are not all the same. In this episode we are joined by Jayna, from first year, and Eileen, currently finishing her fourth year, as they discuss their perspectives on the curricular differentiators of the program including concentrations, technical knowledge, and professional preparation... as well as random, virtual snowball fights and bad decisions made at 3 AM...
Guest Interview | Daniel Hall
In this episode we are joined by Daniel Hall from The Architect Builders Collective Inc., a progressive architecture firm in Toronto specializing in affordable, healthy green design. With a career marked with hands-on experience, from carpentry through to leading-edge digital fabrication, Daniel has infused TABC with a sensitivity to the diversity of facets that are involved in creating the built environment. Join us in hearing Daniel's perspectives on a range of topics from design education through to emergent design challenges such as sustainability and laneway housing.
The Architect Builders Collective Inc. Website:
https://www.tabc.ca/
TABC Centre for Social Innovation Entry:
https://www.tabc.ca/pages/healthy-green-workspaces/accessibility-ramp-and-stairs-centre-for-social-innovation
Toronto Laneway Suites Website:
https://www.toronto.ca/city-government/planning-development/planning-studies-initiatives/changing-lanes-the-city-of-torontos-review-of-laneway-suites/
Revisiting Online Architectural Education
Almost a year into the pandemic there have been various shifts and changes to teaching architecture in an online environment. From students readily jumping into online collaboration tools to faculty learning how to run video lectures, everyone has had ample time to adjust to the new normal in architectural education. Over the past month we have been inundated with requests on information from prospective students about the nature of online studio and courses so what better way to get an insight than getting the opinions of students. In this episode we are joined by Milo, Khushi, Horia, and Oscar as they share their experiences from their online Fall term.
Guest Interview | Andrea Ling
Architecture is not always just about buildings - it is a design discipline that has a legacy of inter- and multidisciplinary activity. Design researchers are constantly examining new materials and methods in creating the built environment. Join us as we interview distinguished artist, researcher, and architect Andrea Ling on her award-winning work and collaborations that bridge a range of other disciplines including fashion, biology, and obscure fairy tales. With an education drawn from science through to MIT's Media Lab and currently working at ETH Zurich, Andrea's knowledge and experience reaffirms the convergent mandate of architecture.
Andrea's Website:
http://andreasling.com/
The Girl in the Wood Frock
http://andreasling.com/the-girl-in-the-wood-frock/
Aguahoja
https://mediatedmattergroup.com/aguahoja
Application Anxiety
It's that time of year again when applicants to architecture programs start asking questions... lots of questions. Though official university websites offer glossy imagery and official procedures on how to apply, it is always reassuring to know that everyone gets a bit anxious when going through the various hurdles to get into an architecture program. From grades and portfolios to drawing and writing tests, sometimes getting into an architecture program is best compared to a reality television show. In this episode we are joined by Aanshi and Si Jia as they recount their application experience and offer comfort to all those who are applying to architecture programs.
Guest Interview | Pierre-Alexandre Le Lay
An accomplished young architect and educator, Pierre-Alexandre Le Lay has an assortment of academic and professional distinctions that epitomize what many students aspire for. While he has established himself as an architect with RAW Design, some might be surprised to discover that he didn't embark on an architectural education when entering university. Join us as we interview Pierre-Alexandre and follow his emergent career including a science degree, questionable research accommodations, and his secret language skills...
RAW Design Profile
https://rawdesign.ca/team/pierre-alexandre-le-lay/
Guest Interview | Diana Brecher
It's that time of year again - no, not the holiday season (that's still about a month away), we're talking about the end of year studio deadlines! While many students typically find themselves getting less sleep, less food, and generally less hygienic, they also are getting more anxious, stressed, and fatigued. With the pandemic and isolation only compounding these challenges, it is unsurprising that students this year are more stressed than usual. In this episode we are joined by Dr. Diana Brecher, Clinical Psychologist, faculty member, and Scholar-in-Residence, Positive Psychology for the Thrive RU program in Student Affairs. She shares with us recent findings about the state of mental health in the university, mitigation strategies, and other resources that can prove to be useful to students in the program. From taking her SSH102 Learning and Development Strategies (imagine getting credit for a course on learning minimizing stress while learning!) to her 20-second hack on getting stuff done, Dr. Brecher gives a range of tips for students to survive this term and to succeed in the next.
Diana Brecher Bio:
NCHA data on Ryerson Students can be found at:
https://www.ryerson.ca/student-wellbeing/healthpromotion/data/
The Ryerson report on Student Wellbeing:
https://www.ryerson.ca/content/dam/student-wellbeing/health-promotion/documents/NCHA-II-SPRING-2019-RYERSON-UNIVERSITY-EXECUTIVE-SUMMARY.pdf
Thriving in Action can be found here tia.ryerson.ca
The ThriveRU website, which includes resources such as the Cultivate Your Happiness workbook - https://www.ryerson.ca/thriveru/
The TED talk Dr. Brecher mention on sleep:
https://www.ted.com/talks/matt_walker_sleep_is_your_superpower/up-next?language=en
Dr. Brecher's course, SSH102 Learning and Development Strategies (the for-credit version of Thriving in action) is an open elective and can be found here:
https://www.ryerson.ca/calendar/2020-2021/courses/social-science-and-humanities/SSH/102/
Guest Interview | Philip Hastings
As a recipient of numerous architecture distinctions for nearly twenty years and a key player in literally building Ryerson University's Department of Architectural Science, Gow Hastings Architects is a well-known architecture firm among the student population. How did the firm come about? How did it become so successful? We were fortunate to have Gow Hastings co-founder, Philip Hastings, join us as we delve into his past and gain insights on how he succeeded in the industry. We also learn his perspective on "good times", working abroad, dating classmates, and other tips for architecture students.
Gow Hastings Architects
http://gowhastings.com/
Paul H. Cocker Architecture Gallery (ArchDaily)
https://www.archdaily.com/487338/paul-h-cocker-architecture-gallery-gow-hastings-architects
Ryerson University Student ServiceHub (Archello)
https://archello.com/project/ryerson-university-student-servicehub
Odeyto Indigenous Centre: Honorable Mention (The Architecture Master Prize)
https://architectureprize.com/winners/winner.php?id=852&mode=hm&compID=12789
Niagara College (Interior Design)
https://www.interiordesign.net/projects/18558-gow-hastings-architects-creates-contemporary-student-hub-for-niagara-college-in-canada/
Guest Interview | Camille Mitchell
Camille Mitchell has been a prominent voice in the Canadian design industry advocating for greater equity and diversity in architecture through her roles on BAIDA and BEAT. She is also a student from the past who is always willing to share a moment to provide insights to future design professionals. In this episode Camille shares her experiences and memories from the profession and in architectural education. List as she also suggests (occasionally contentious) tips for young architects...
A FEW ARTICLES ON CAMILLE
CBC HERstory
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/herstory-camille-mitchell-1.3987279
Working From Home with Camille Mitchell
https://designto.org/blog/work-from-home-with-camille-mitchell/
Follow her on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ms_camillemitchell/
BEAT
http://www.beatoronto.com/
BAIDA
https://www.baida.ca/
Black Lives Matter Episode
https://anchor.fm/vincent--hui/episodes/Black-Perspectives-on-Architectural-Education-ef9v5a
Halloween Stories 2020
In the spirit of Halloween, this episode is a quick recounting of a few spooky stories in architecture both near and far.
Ryerson Theatre School
https://theeyeopener.com/2018/10/the-haunting-of-ryersons-old-theatre-school/
Winchester Mansion
https://www.winchestermysteryhouse.com/sarahs-story/
Taliesin
https://www.taliesinpreservation.org/
Social Media and Community
While social media is a ubiquitous component in daily life, it has a special value for architecture students as it is a font of inspirational imagery, headlines on new architectural works, and insights into what is currently on architects' minds. At a more pragmatic level, social media is about connecting people, whether in a localized community like school or on a larger scale for public outreach. In this episode we hear from Noah, Saroash, and Evan about their experience with social media as DAS students during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Concentration Conversation: Architecture
Within Ryerson Architectural Science, the core fourth year concentration in Architecture is the most popular. With a great degree of flexibility, conceptual thinking, diversity of emergent architectural issues, and ability to serve as a transition into both industry and graduate studies. Joined by Joana and Kevin, DAS graduates both recent and long ago, we discuss their experiences with the Architecture option and how it laid the groundwork for their nascent careers.
Apologies for the terrible audio - the microphone situation didn't pan out!
Architectural Science Options:
https://www.ryerson.ca/architectural-science/undergraduate/courses/
Project Management Option Podcast Episode:
https://anchor.fm/vincent--hui/episodes/Concentration-Conversation-Project-Management-ecu3bb
Building Science Option Podcast Episode
https://anchor.fm/vincent--hui/episodes/Concentration-Conversation-Building-Science-ef0tn9
Back in the Swing of Things
We have been preparing for it for the past few months and undertaking small trials over the summer on what the best practices for course delivery and oversight on studios could be. A month into the new term and it's worth taking a moment to see how we are doing. Join us as we speak with four undergraduate students, Kateryna, Venessa, Matt, and Shengnan as we get an impression on how the new school year is proceeding. While the three upper year students offer sage advice and insights on how to survive online studios and courses, our first year student doesn't hold back at the end as she puts each upper year on the hot seat.
Guest Interview | Paul Floerke
Paul Floerke has been a professor with the Department of Architectural Science in the undergraduate program, primarily in third year studio, and in the Master of Architecture studio. Over the past few years he has overseen the mobility program within the Department that has grown to inculcate global perspectives in the education of its students. From Canada to Germany and back again, Paul joins us as he looks into the new academic year.
Website: http://www.paulfloerke.com/
Faculty Profile: https://www.ryerson.ca/architectural-science/people/faculty/paul-floerke/
Detailing Architecture Book: https://gumroad.com/l/detailingarchitecture
Getting to Know DAS Student Societies
An architectural education is more than simply classes and studio (it just happens to feel that way sometimes). It is a community of students, faculty, and professionals that share the same perspectives on supporting the next generation of professionals in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction industry. Within DAS, there are three student societies, the Architecture Course Union (ACU), the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS), and the Architecture Student Society (ArcSoc). What do these different groups do? What do they have planned for this coming year? How can you get involved? Fortunately we had the three leaders of the societies, Sadberk (ACU), Pranjl (AIAS), and Treya (ArcSoc) join us to inform us on their plans for the new academic year... and also make every other year jealous of this year's Orientation package!
ACU
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryeacu/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ryersonacu/
Website: http://www.rsuonline.ca/214/course-unions/Architectural-Science
American Institute of Architecture Students
Website: http://www.aias.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aiasryerson/
Twitter: @aiasryerson
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aiasrye/
Architecture Student Society (ArcSoc)
Website: http://www.arcsoc.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arc.soc/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ryersonarcsoc/
Twitter: @arc_soc
Guest Interview | Andrea Ridgley
It's that time of year again, where students are about to jump into classes (at least virtually), work on assignments, and submit them for assessment. In a perfect world, that would be the whole story. Unfortunately sometimes students are called in on a suspicion of academic misconduct. It can be a stressful experience to say the least. In this episode we are joined by Andrea Ridgley from the Academic Integrity Office, a neutral body within the university, who outlines what academic integrity means, how to prevent it, and the process should a student be called in. From first year to grad students, it is always good to brush up on good practice and how to avoid the process altogether.
First Year Orientation
As the Fall 2020 term ramps up, first years are anxious and eager to start the new year. In this episode we have a candid chat with incoming first years, Jake, Amanda, and Daniel and try to bust myths about architectural education.
Guest Interview | Mark Tholen
Having taught for the past 12 months within the Department of Architectural Science, Mark Tholen is a relatively new addition to the stable of accomplished sessional instructors infusing their experience and knowledge into the classroom and studio. Though Mark has taught in second and fourth year studios and Advanced Digital Design, most students and faculty have not had an opportunity to get to know him. In this episode we hear about his perspectives on hands-on experiential learning and the nature of innovation in design. We also get an insight on his upcoming option studio for the Fall 2020 term... and how he stays in buildings during fire alarms...
Mark Tholen Bio:
https://www2.ocadu.ca/bio/mark-tholen
OCADU Steam Canoe Winter Station:
https://www.archdaily.com/872935/steam-canoe-ocadu
Student Tips for the New Academic Year
While the global pandemic has made many of us lose track of time, the new school year is coming about sooner than later. In this episode we are joined by students from first year through to recent graduates who offer perspectives on each year in the DAS Architectural Science curriculum, tips on what to prepare for, and of course how to succeed. Faye, Alyssa, Lena, and Keanu offer insights that help students and faculty alike on how to prepare for the new school year - from locking down team members to growing from crits, they offer suggestions on not simply how to survive, but succeed in the program.
Guest Interview | Albert Smith
Having taught students all across North America in various schools of architecture, Albert Smith has been a fixture for generations of undergraduate students, particularly in entering first year. In this episode, Al shares his global perspective on architecture, ideas on representation in architecture, and experiences teaching first year students. We also find out how he regrets quoting certain people in his books and architecture student pranks that seem like too much work...
325 Magazine
325 Magazine is the annual publication from and by the students within the Department of Architectural Science. It serves to highlight their great work and reaches an audience throughout the industry and general public both locally in the GTA and around the world. Each year a dedicated team of students raise funds, assemble content, and generate a magazine that demonstrates the strength of DAS students to design. In this episode we are joined by executive members of the 325 Magazine team, Arash, Kyle, Gladys, and Caitlin.
Keep up to date, submit to the upcoming edition, or better yet, join the team!
Instagram: @325magazine
https://instagram.com/325magazine
Project submission: https://forms.gle/LF911okLKd5vMNZA6
Online Edition: https://issuu.com/mag325/docs/2018-2019
Email: arch325magazine@ryerson.ca
Guest Interview | Miljana Horvat
Serving as both a faculty member (teaching everything from first year studio to graduate building science courses) as well as the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies for the Faculty of Engineering and Architectural Science, Miljana Horvat is a highly accomplished educator and administrator. In this episode she shares her perspective on building science and design and some tips on succeeding in the long and winding road of an architectural education.
Miljana Horvat Bio
https://www.ryerson.ca/architectural-science/people/faculty/miljana-horvat/
Twitter
@miljanahorvat
COVID Convocation - congratulations!
Where the end of June usually marks the official completion of many students as they graduate with their degrees, the COVID-19 Pandemic has unfortunately forced many convocations to be cancelled or at the very least postponed into subsequent terms. In this episode we take a moment with Bernadette, Jeanette, and Adam, all students who were set to graduate this year, and hear them reminisce about the highs, lows, and funny parts of their undergraduate architectural careers. We get their perspectives on some of the profs that made an impact on their development and also get some tips for students still in the program.
Guest Interview | Masha Etkind
Having taught for over 30 years within the Department of Architectural Science, Masha Etkind has been a mentor to thousands of students in a range of courses from history and studio to structures and construction. In this episode we discover how Masha initiated curricular and pedagogical initiatives that have become anchors in the DAS program.
Masha's Faculty Profile
https://www.ryerson.ca/architectural-science/people/faculty/masha-etkind/
Working in a Pandemic
We all know that there are many benefits to co-op ranging from real world application of skills developed in school to developing soft skills and networking that are critical to success in the industry. But what happens when that model of operation is abruptly put to an end and then transitioned into an exclusively online paradigm? In this episode we are joined by Ben and Vanessa, current co-op students, who compare their co-op experiences before and after the pandemic.
IBI Group
https://www.ibigroup.com/
Taylor Smyth Architects
http://www.taylorsmyth.com/
Guest Interview | Garth Norbraten
We have a chance to interview with Garth Norbraten, an architect, educator, and proud Saskatchewanian who has been teaching at Ryerson University's Department of Architectural Science for nearly a decade. As if destined to enter the industry, Garth recounts his upbringing in the Canadian Prairies, education around the world, entry into the industry and return to academia. And just like any all the architecture profs, we find out his strange habits and hobbies - if you didn't know him, you would never have guessed them...
Johnson Norbraten Architect Inc.
http://www.johnsonnorbraten.com/garth.php
Garth Norbraten's House in The Globe and Mail
https://www.theglobeandmail.com/real-estate/a-house-crafted-by-a-master-architectural-tailor/article690851/
Profile at the 2007 Twenty + Change Next Generation
http://twentyandchange.org/archive/2007
Black Perspectives on Architectural Education
Over the past few months protests have erupted around the world responding to racial inequalities and mistreatment. This has been happening for centuries and has consciously and unconsciously seeped into society including governance, finance, and even education. Architectural education is no different. In this episode we speak with past and present Ryerson students, David, Tapenga, and Adneth who share their perspectives on being black in the architecture academy and industry.
David Campbell: https://www.arup.com/our-firm/david-campbell
Arup: https://www.arup.com/offices/canada/toronto
Black Architects Discussed
Francis Kéré: http://www.kere-architecture.com/
David Adjaye: https://www.adjaye.com/
Kunle Adeyemi: http://www.nleworks.com/team-member/kunle-adeyemi/
Building Equality in Architecture Toronto BEAT
http://www.beatoronto.com/
National Organization of Minority Architects NOMA
https://noma.net/
Black Architects and Interior Designers Association
https://www.baida.ca/
The Architecture Lobby
http://architecture-lobby.org/
Some Social Media Accounts on Instagram – some good local ones too (Courtesy of David):
@blackurbanism_TO
@aliseinwonderland
@michaelford
@hiphoparchitecture
@DeNichols
@theblarchitect
@jay_pitter
@ms_camillemitchell
Guest Interview | Justin Perdue
School might seem like a long time away, but it never hurts to sharpen your ability to simply get things done. From a student perspective, is the studio lifestyle we live something that continues into professional practice? For professionals, what should we be doing to ensure students are able to properly manage themselves on real projects? In this episode we are joined by Justin Perdue, Principal at HDR Architecture's Toronto office. He gives tips on how students can learn to balance their time and get projects done not only in studio but in the industry - while also recounting some of his design work. From Integrated Project Delivery to Halloween costumes, we have an informative and nostalgic look at productivity.
HDR Architecture
https://www.hdrinc.com/services/architecture
Justin Perdue Information
2019 Canadian Architect Award Winner for John Deutsch University Centre Renovation
https://www.canadianarchitect.com/john-deutsch-university-centre-revitalization/
Profile
http://2019exhibitors.thebuildingsshow.com/Attendee/Conference/SpeakerDetails?id=593001
Getting Things Done (GTD) by David Allen
https://lifehacker.com/productivity-101-a-primer-to-the-getting-things-done-1551880955
Concentration Conversation: Building Science
Success in the architecture is not simply a matter of presenting a seductive design, it is inherently tied to its feasibility. Building Science is not only essential in translating design innovation to constructed reality, it also presents a range of tools for contemporary architects to design for higher performance and lower adverse impacts. In this episode we are joined by two Matts, Matthew Sauder, a recent graduate from the Bachelor of Architectural Science Building Science Concentration, and Matthew Tokarik, a graduate from the Building Science graduate program. Between the two of them, we outline the value of Building Science in contemporary practice, the way the technical can be equally creative as design, and what the prospects are for those empowered with Building Science knowledge... we also find out how (and how not) to promote student bonding in classes...
Department of Architectural Science Building Science Graduate Studies
https://www.ryerson.ca/architectural-science/building-science/home/
Matthew Tokarik, Vice-President Subterra
https://www.subterrarenewables.com/
Department of Energy 2014 Race To Zero Winners: Harvest Home
https://www.homeinnovation.com/~/media/Files/DOE%20Challenge%20Home%20Student%20Competition/Grand%20Winner%20Materials/HARVEST-HOME_REPORT.ashx
Guest Interview | Marco Polo
In this episode, we get a chance to chat with Marco Polo, Graduate Program Director for Architecture in Ryerson University, distinguished academic and author, and past-editor of Canadian Architect magazine. We discuss everything from the value of history and theory in architectural education and teaching studio through to pursuing graduate degrees and thesis. We also chat about getting banned from doing studio reviews and the drama that arises in final presentations and deadlines.
Faculty Profile
https://www.ryerson.ca/architectural-science/people/faculty/marco-polo/
Architecture and National Identity: The Centennial Projects 50 Years On
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/centennial-buildings-50th-anniversary-1.3654283
Marco Polo and Colin Ripley (Presentation at University of Calgary)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jsfog7sJJCI
Working While Studying Architecture
If you thought working a 25+ hour course load and an additional ~50 hours of homework/studio was intense, you'd be right. If you thought about doing it all while undertaking an additional 25+ hours of working a part-time job on the side was possible, you'd be one of our students on this episode. It's not ideal nor is it easy, but it is possible. Tuition, books, computers, model materials, plotting, rent, and food are not going to pay for themselves! We are joined by two students from our Architectural Science program, Dani and Destiny, who have been working while balancing the pressures of school and studio. Offering tips on dealing with employers, faculty, classmates, these ladies provide a glimpse into the life of a student studying architecture concurrently with work demands.
Co-Operative Education
https://www.ryerson.ca/architectural-science/undergraduate/professional-experience/
Guest Interview | Drew Adams
How do I become a great designer? How can I become a national award-winning architect? If I'm not the best student, is there even a chance? In this episode we are joined by Drew Adams, the 2020 recipient of the RAIC Emerging Architect Award as he recounts his distinguished career (thus far) and offers insights on how students can be better students, professionals, and people - because that's just the kind of guy Drew is.
RAIC Award Citation
https://www.canadianarchitect.com/raic-announce-emerging-architect-award-winner/
LGA Architectural Partners
https://lga-ap.com/
A few of Drew's notable LGA projects mentioned in this episode:
The Don Valley Brickworks Kiln Building Redevelopment
https://lga-ap.com/project/community/kilnbuildingredevelopment
Eva's Phoenix Brant Street
https://lga-ap.com/project/residential/evasbrant
Architectural Science Camps
Like cellphone ownership, online shopping, and makeup use (okay maybe not that last one), architectural education is starting earlier and earlier. Summer often marks a bit of a break in the academic calendar, but not so much with architecture; it just simply means institutions have an ability to offer architecture-related programming for elementary and high school students. In this episode past Architectural Science camp counsellors Mutwashukh and Semeen explain what the programs are all about, what they taught, and what they learned...
Guest Interview | Leila Farah
Professor Leila Farah has established a teaching portfolio spanning site development and planning through to leading some of the most interdisciplinary design studios in the university. While she is modest about all of her incredible distinctions, if you take a moment to look them up, you'll realize just how accomplished she is. Join us as she takes a moment to share her journey to become a professor within the Department of Architectural Science.
And yes, we finally get to interview one of the three profs from the "Cool Corner" in the faculty corridor!
Faculty Profile:
https://www.ryerson.ca/architectural-science/people/faculty/leila-farah/
Jean Sauvé Foundation Fellow:
https://jeannesauve.org/scholar/leila-marie-farah/
https://jeannesauve.org/forum-on-urban-metabolism-wrap-up/
Architectural Computing: A Student Perspective
Computers are a double-edged sword: on the one hand, they are great tools in communicating and developing complex ideas while at the same time, they tend to be the bane of an architecture student's existence when they are needed most. Join Rita, Alvin, and Olivia as they provide invaluable insights on hardware and software while recounting their highs and lows (actually, pretty much all lows) of computer use through their architectural education.
Departmental Computing Support and Specifications:
https://www.ryerson.ca/architectural-science/forms-resources/
Guest Interview | Colin Ripley
If you think theoretical physics and architecture don't have anything to do with each other - well, you're thinking wrong. In this episode we have a chance to interview Colin Ripley, a man with an interesting history and even more interesting perspectives on everything from theory and identity to fashion sensibility... Spoiler alert: he thinks a certain prof dresses like a homeless person...
Website:
http://www.rvtr.com/
Profile:
https://www.ryerson.ca/architectural-science/people/faculty/colin-ripley/
RVTR Prix De Rome:
https://www.cbc.ca/news/entertainment/prix-de-rome-winners-to-study-housing-for-a-northern-climate-1.849844
Notes:
Frase's Four Futures: https://jacobinmag.com/2011/12/four-futures
QSpace: http://qspacearch.com/
Architecture Life: A View From a Commuter Campus
There actually is life outside of architecture - after all, you technically eat, sleep, and shower elsewhere. While a great deal of time is spent on architectural studies with classmates in the studio, sometimes students need a break from being surrounded by architecture students... or do they? In this episode we are joined by Liane, Nick, and Raya as they discuss the ways architecture students live beyond the Architecture building. We learn the pros and cons of commuting, living off-campus, architecture roommates, and eating locally. We also delve into inventive ways to meal prep, strike up conversations with mall cops, and deal with inconsiderate roommates...
Guest Interview | Hayley Isaacs
Trying hard to forget that time when you designed a building that looked incredible but your professor told you it broke fundamental laws of physics? Or fighting off cringing when you presented a futuristic design that was criticized for being futile? Resist no more. Have no fear - there's hope for you! In this episode we interview Hayley Isaacs, a set designer with a background in architecture, who has worked on productions from Degrassi through to Star Trek.
The Crit: A Platform for Stress or Success?
Feedback is essential in developing and refining ideas, especially in architectural education. Like a reality television show, studio culture challenges students to produce something with limited resources in a stress-inducing time frame only to be presented, critiqued, and judged by colleagues and superiors. In this episode we are joined by Sakeenah, Kristyan and Carolina who share tips from their own experience on how to best prepare for and receive critical feedback. Reviewers are not "out to get" students - they just want to provide feedback to get students better... because they are approachable.
Guest Interview | Arthur Wrigglesworth
Professors enjoy the privilege of impacting thousands of students in over their careers and they should never take it for granted. In this episode we are joined by Professor Arthur Wrigglesworth as he reminds us of that while he recounts his own development as an architect and educator. If you are a DAS student, you likely have had him teach you whether in a large classroom setting (Collaborative Exercise or Tectonics and Materiality) or in the undergraduate or graduate studios. We gain his tips on becoming a successful student, from punctuality to presentation, and where to get the best veggie burger on campus.
Website: https://www.ryerson.ca/architectural-science/people/faculty/arthur-wrigglesworth/
Online Architectural Education
Nowadays it seems like we're on our computers all the time, wearing sweatpants (if at all), and going to sleep at odd hours of the day... just like a studio deadline. With the COVID-19 Pandemic mandating "work-from-home" and online productivity, how have architecture students responded? What are the best practices and how do we get around "virtually" working in studio? Join Patricia, Ely, and Melina as we discuss their experiences and suggestions for how to teach architecture online.
Guest Interview | Terri Peters
Sustainable design is more than just green roofs and solar panels - it's about establishing a strong future as well as a healthy present. In this episode we are joined by Professor Terri Peters who recounts her experiences in architecture that led her to investigate a range of factors impacting well-being in buildings. We also discover her preoccupation with sketching, model-making, and once again realize that profs don't always know the name of the courses they teach...
Twitter: @TerriJPeters
Website: https://www.ryerson.ca/architectural-science/people/faculty/terri-peters/
Thrive Global Interview: https://thriveglobal.com/stories/interview-series-terri-peters/
What's the Deal With Structures?
Technical courses, specifically structures, can either be a bird course or the bane of an architecture student's existence. Is it a matter of difficulty, preparation, time management, integration, or simply a function of priorities? For those who face challenges in the technical courses, take solace in the fact that it gets better. We are joined by upper year students, Madina and Arash, who share their experiences and tips on structures success. We also learn about one of the reasons why Vince doesn't teach structures any longer...