CURRICULUM

Sustainability in Architecture
(ARC 335)
Compiled by:
Asst. Prof. Dr. O. Paul AGBOOLA
Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture,
Istanbul Gelisim University. Turkey
Course Description:
This course explores the principles and practices of sustainability in architecture, with a focus
on integrating environmental responsibility into the design, construction, and management of
buildings. Students will examine the impact of architectural decisions on ecological systems
and human well-being, learning about energy-efficient building techniques, renewable
materials, and the role of policy in fostering sustainable development. The course encourages
innovative approaches to creating environmentally friendly and socially responsible buildings
while addressing the challenges posed by climate change.
Course Objectives:
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
1. Understand the key concepts and principles of sustainability as they apply to

architectural design.
2. Analyze the environmental impacts of building materials and construction practices.
3. Evaluate sustainable building technologies and strategies, including energy efficiency,
water conservation, and renewable resources.
4. Identify and implement design strategies that promote human well-being and
environmental responsibility.
5. Assess the influence of local, national, and global policies on sustainable architectural
practices.
6. Develop design solutions that address climate change, urban resilience, and the needs
of future generations.
Course Outline:
This outline provides students with a comprehensive understanding of sustainability in

architecture, preparing them to design environmentally responsible buildings and contribute
to the future of sustainable urban environments.
Week 1: Introduction to Sustainability in Architecture
 Definition and Importance of Sustainability in the Built Environment

 Historical Overview of Sustainable Architecture
 Key Concepts: Environmental, Economic, and Social Sustainability
Week 2: Environmental Impact of the Built Environment
 Energy Use in Buildings

 Carbon Footprint and Emissions
 Resource Depletion: Water, Materials, and Energy
Week 3: Green Building Standards and Certifications
 LEED, BREEAM, and Other Certification Systems

 International Best Practices and Case Studies
 Sustainability Metrics and Evaluation
Week 4: Sustainable Materials in Architecture
 Renewable and Recyclable Building Materials

 Low-Impact Construction Techniques
 Life Cycle Assessment of Materials
Week 5: Energy Efficiency in Building Design
 Passive and Active Energy Systems

 Building Orientation, Insulation, and Ventilation Strategies
 Renewable Energy Integration: Solar, Wind, and Geothermal
Week 6: Water Conservation and Management
 Sustainable Water Use in Buildings

 Rainwater Harvesting and Greywater Recycling
 Stormwater Management and Urban Hydrology
Week 7: Climate-Responsive and Adaptive Design
 Designing for Local Climates and Environments

 Urban Heat Island Effect and Mitigation Strategies
 Climate Resilience in Architecture
Week 8: Biophilic and Ecological Design Principles
 Biophilic Design and its Impact on Human Well-Being

 Incorporating Green Spaces: Green Roofs, Living Walls, and Urban Landscaping
 Integrating Indigenous Flora and Fauna into Architectural Projects
Week 9: Smart Technologies and Sustainability
 Smart Building Systems for Energy and Resource Management

 Building Automation and Control Systems for Sustainable Operations
 Internet of Things (IoT) and Smart Cities
Week 10: Policy, Governance, and Sustainability
 Environmental Policies and their Impact on Architectural Design

 Zoning Laws and Sustainability Regulations
 Sustainable Urban Planning and Development
Week 11: Case Studies in Sustainable Architecture
 Analysis of Leading Sustainable Architecture Projects Globally

 Challenges and Lessons from Implementing Sustainable Design
 Innovative Sustainable Architectural Solutions in Different Contexts
Week 12: Final Project Presentations
 Group or Individual Sustainable Design Projects

 Peer Review and Discussions
 Reflections on Sustainability in Architectural Practice
Assessment Methods:
 Assignments and Case Study Analyses: 30%

 Mid-Term Exam: 30%
 Final Design Project/Presentation: 40%
Recommended Texts and Resources:
 Yeang, K. (2008). EcoDesign: A Manual for Ecological Design. ISBN-10:0470997788. Wiley

Publisher.
 McLennan, J. F. (2004). The Philosophy of Sustainable Design. Ecotone Publishing
Company LLC; F First Edition (January 1, 2004). ISBN-10 : 0974903302.
 Kibert, C. J. (2016). Sustainable Construction: Green Building Design and Delivery. John
Wiley & Sons Inc; 3rd edition (January 1, 2012). ISBN-10 : 0470904453.
 The Philosophy of Sustainable Design by Jason F. McLennan.
 Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things by William McDonough and
Michael Braungart.
 Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design with Nature by Douglas Farr.
 Green Building: Principles and Practices in Residential Construction by Abe Kruger
and Carl Seville.
 Access to LEED and BREEAM certification guidelines.
Learning Activities:
 Lectures and case studies.

 Group discussions and peer reviews.
 Field visits to sustainable buildings (if possible).
 Hands-on design projects.
Signed. O.P. Agboola(Ph.D.)

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Sustainability in Architecture

Asst. Prof. Dr. O. Paul AGBOOLA

Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture,

Istanbul Gelisim University. Turkey

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

1. Understand the key concepts and principles of sustainability as they apply to

This outline provides students with a comprehensive understanding of sustainability in

 Definition and Importance of Sustainability in the Built Environment

Week 2: Environmental Impact of the Built Environment

 Energy Use in Buildings

Week 3: Green Building Standards and Certifications

 LEED, BREEAM, and Other Certification Systems

Week 4: Sustainable Materials in Architecture

 Renewable and Recyclable Building Materials

Week 5: Energy Efficiency in Building Design

 Passive and Active Energy Systems

Week 6: Water Conservation and Management

 Sustainable Water Use in Buildings

Week 7: Climate-Responsive and Adaptive Design

 Designing for Local Climates and Environments

Week 8: Biophilic and Ecological Design Principles

 Biophilic Design and its Impact on Human Well-Being

 Smart Building Systems for Energy and Resource Management

Week 10: Policy, Governance, and Sustainability

 Environmental Policies and their Impact on Architectural Design

Week 11: Case Studies in Sustainable Architecture

 Analysis of Leading Sustainable Architecture Projects Globally

Week 12: Final Project Presentations

 Group or Individual Sustainable Design Projects

 Assignments and Case Study Analyses: 30%

Recommended Texts and Resources:

 Yeang, K. (2008). EcoDesign: A Manual for Ecological Design. ISBN-10:0470997788. Wiley

 Lectures and case studies.

Signed. O.P. Agboola(Ph.D.)

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