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Design Technology 2: Advanced Technology Applications - YSA00002I

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  • Department: York School of Architecture
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: I
  • Academic year of delivery: 2026-27

Module summary

This is the second module in a series of undergraduate Architectural Design Technology strand that equips the student to understand contemporary applications of building technologies. Building on concepts introduced in Year One, this module will advance the student's understanding of the application of structural design and analysis, the use of advanced construction methods, building services and buildings performance in regards to energy efficiency.

This module is closely related to other modules including the studio-based part of the curriculum.

Professional requirements

Students studying this architecture degree will need to evidence a portfolio demonstrates a response to the RIBA themes and Values validation and that the course has 50% design components and 20% professional practice components

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 1 2026-27

Module aims

The student will gain a working knowledge and understanding of the following core subject areas relevant to the design of buildings: the application of structural design and analysis, the use of advanced construction methods, building services, and buildings performance in regards to energy efficiency.

Topics will generally be discussed via thorough analysis of contemporary architectural precedents.

This module aims to:

  • Critically appraise alternative structural, constructional, and material systems relevant to architectural design.

  • Explore the inter-relationship between aesthetic aspects of architectural design, technical requirements of construction and the needs of building users.

  • Explore the interdependencies of Structures, Materials and Construction in relation to the sustainable integration of technology into architectural design.

  • Build up knowledge of life and fire safety in building design

  • Professionally communicate information and arguments in a variety of forms

Aims will be achieved using a variety of teaching and learning methods: the module includes experimental work and ‘hands-on’ activities, case studies, site visits to provide firsthand exposure to construction processes, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application, and guest lectures to enrich students' perspectives, offering insights into industry trends and innovations.

Module learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

LO1- Analyse precedent case studies to study the integration of technology into architectural design projects that satisfy both aesthetic and technical requirements and user requirements.

LO2- Compare alternative structural, constructional, and material systems and identify their interrelationships relevant to life and fire safety

LO3- Identify and evaluate structure, construction and engineering problems associated with building design, evidencing an understanding of the physical properties and characteristics of building materials, components, and systems.

LO4- Assess the impact of buildings on the environment and apply principles of sustainable design associated with designing optimum visual, thermal and acoustic environments

Module content

The module will explore following themes:

1: Structural Design and Analysis

  • In-depth study of structural systems

  • Exploration of innovative structural solutions through case studies

  • Practical application of structural system design

2: Advanced Construction Methods

  • Specialised construction techniques (prefabrication, modular construction)

  • Field trips to cutting-edge construction sites

  • Integration of digital technologies in construction

3: Building Services

  • systems and strategies associated with the design of optimal visual, thermal and acoustic environments, ventilation, power, water supply and drainage

  • the integration of services in the design of buildings and groups of buildings within relevant precepts of sustainable design

  • Introduction to life and fire safety in building design

4: Building Performance and Energy Efficiency

  • Energy-efficient building design principles

  • Thermal comfort and HVAC systems

  • Introduction to Building Simulation for performance analysis

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100.0

Special assessment rules

Non-compensatable

Additional assessment information

PORTFOLIO [100%]

The portfolio will be composed of a complete analytical study; the outcome will generally be composed of complementary connected elements, generally as follows (exact percentages will be clearly indicated by the assignment brief):

Individual Written Task

  • An individual illustrated short report (1000 words/student) on the topic of individual and/or group research work (based on the nature of the assignment)

Individual Drawn Task

  • Individually, based on the assignment brief, students will develop a set of 2D and 3D drawings of either assigned building construction components or structural systems (typically of existing buildings- case studies)

Individual Made Task

  • A scaled physical 3D model of a building detail or a wall-section. (The students will be encouraged to use 3D printing facilities for the production of this model)

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100.0

Module feedback

The work will be developed individually. There will be scheduled interim reviews (clearly announced by the assignment brief) of work in progress, and the students (individually or in groups) will receive formative feedback for the final portfolio submission.

The collective work will be submitted at the end of the semester.

Precedent work and practical examples will be used to challenge and stretch students’ understanding. Group-based tutorials will provide opportunities for regular review of and feedback on students’ coursework development.

Verbal and written formative feedback will be given on interim submissions and a summative written feedback will be given on the final submission of portfolio elements. The duration of feedback return will follow the University’s guidance.

Indicative reading

Brown, G. Z and Dekay, M. (2014) Sun, wind & light: Architectural design strategies. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.

Chudley, R. and Greeno, R. (2012) Advanced Construction Technology. Harlow, Essex: Pearson.

Deplazes, A. (2018) Constructing architecture: Materials, processes, structures. Basel: Birkha¨user.

Edwards, B. (2014) Rough guide to sustainability: a design primer. London: RIBA Publishing.

Gorse C.A., (2014) Barry’s advanced construction of buildings, 3rd edition. Chichester:Wiley-Blackwell (Volume 2 in the series)

Greeno, R. (2023) Building Services Handbook. New York, NY: Routledge.

Hawkes, D., McDonald, J., and Steemers, K., (2002) The selective environment. London and New York: Taylor and Francis

Livingston, J., (2014) Designing with light: the art, science and practice of architectural lighting design. London: Wiley

Lyons, A. (2020) Materials for architects and builders. Abingdon, Oxon: Routledge, Taylor & Francis Group.

Meijs, M. and Knaack, U. (2009) Components and connections: Principles of construction. Basel: Birkha¨user.

Smith, P.F. (2016) Architecture in a climate of change: A guide to sustainable design. London: Routledge, Taylor and Francis Group.

Stacey, M., (2011) Concrete, a studio design guide. London: RIBA Publishing


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.