4.451 U / 4.450, 1.575 G

Research seminar focusing on emerging applications of computation for creative, early-stage structural design and optimization for architecture. Incorporates computational design fundamentals, including problem parameterization and formulation; design space exploration strategies, including interactive, heuristic, and gradient-based optimization; and computational structural analysis methods, including the finite element method, graphic statics, and approximation techniques. Programing experience and familiarity with structural mechanics necessary.

Additional work required of students taking graduate version. 

Selection of thesis topic, definition of method of approach, and preparation of thesis proposal. Independent study supplemented by individual conference with faculty.

Selection of thesis topic, definition of method of approach, and preparation of thesis proposal. Independent study supplemented by individual conference with faculty.

Fundamental research methodologies and ongoing investigations in building tehnology to support the development of student research projects. Topics drawn from low energy building design and thermal comfort, building systems analysis and control, daylighting, structural design and analysis, novel building materials and construction techniques and resource dynamics. Organized as a series of two- and three-week sessions that consider topics through readings, discussions, design and analysis projects, and student presentations.

Addresses advanced structures, exterior envelopes, and contemporary production technologies. Continues the exploration of structural elements and systems, expanding to include more complex determinate, indeterminate, long-span, and high-rise systems. Topics include reinforced concrete, steel and engineered-wood design, and an introduction to tensile systems. The contemporary exterior envelope is discussed with an emphasis on the classification of systems, performance attributes, and analysis techniques, material specifications and novel construction technologies.

4.401 U (GIR REST) / 4.464J, 1.564J G

Introduction to the study of the thermal and luminous behavior of buildings. Examines the basic scientific principles underlying these phenomena and introduces students to a range of technologies and analysis techniques for designing comfortable indoor environments. Challenges students to apply these techniques and explore the role energy and light can play in shaping architecture.

Additional work required of students taking the graduate version.

1/26/26 note: 4.440/1.056 Friday lab time is now 9:30-11:30.

UG: 4.440, 1.056; Grad: 4.462

Introduces the design and behavior of large-scale structures and structural materials. Emphasizes the development of structural form and the principles of structural design. Presents design methods for timber, masonry, concrete and steel applied to long-span roof systems, bridges, and high-rise buildings. Includes environmental assessment of structural systems and materials. In laboratory sessions, students solve structural problems by building and testing simple models. 

Graduate and undergraduate students have separate lab sections.

GIR LAB (4.440)

Given their outsized contribution to anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions and unique ability to provide shelter to occupants, buildings are a key lever for both climate mitigation and adaptation. As weather events become more extreme, many buildings will fail to protect human health and provide economic security, causing an estimated 14.5million deaths and US$12.5trillion in losses by 2050. While the stakes could not be higher, we have surprisingly limited climate-actionable information on individual buildings worldwide, be it their propensity to overheat, potential to be retrofitted or evolving impact on their surrounding energy infrastructure. This class first introduces students to physics-based methods to derive this information for case study cities under current and future climate scenarios. Working directly with US and international policymakers, we will then develop concrete strategies to ensure resident health and prosperity for all.

Additional work required of students taking the graduate version.

Note for MArch students: 4.433 serves as a BT elective credit (for 4.46x credit resolution or Certificate in Climate & Sustainability)