ACADEMICS

I teach part-time at Lawrence Technological University near Detroit where I am an adjunct professor. Since 2022, I have taught a graduate level studio called Comprehensive Design which ask students to design a building which analyzes program, site and environment, structure, on-site energy generation, envelope and regulatory requirements into a synthesized and coordinated proposal. The aim of the studio is to engage students in problem seeking and problem solving in a multifaceted way to achieve high performance buildings.

PHENOMENOLOGY RESOURCES

Academy of Neuroscience for Architecture (ANFA) - https://anfarch.org/
International Ambiances Network - https://www.ambiances.net/?lang=en
14+ Patterns of Biophilic Design - https://www.terrapinbrightgreen.com/report/14-patterns/

DAYLIGHTING RESOURCES

Velux Daylight and Architecture - https://www.daylightandarchitecture.com/
Window Research Institute - https://madoken.jp/en/

RECOMMENDED READING FOR STUDENTS & OTHERS
The overwhelming theme of these books is a conception of architecture as a social phenomenon more than a physical construction.

I once heard a broad definition of music as "sound organized in time." Following that lead, I define architecture broadly as "human activities organized in space". In this wide definition, many types of social events which require some spatial definition, boundary, or rules, becomes the starting point for architecture. The social aspect is the catalyst.

Other themes are about place and the human senses. I think a good designer must be sensitive to the environment around them, and curious about its nature. I feel this helps them design places in a deep and nuanced way that supports the needs of the people and the activities they do within architecture. The invisible aspects of design are often more powerful than the visible ones!

RECOMMENDED MUSIC TO LISTEN TO IN DESIGN STUDIO
Late at night, you need good music to keep the energy (and motivation) flowing. These recommendations definitely date my school years!