Weimar, Germany

Floating Architecture

when 17 August 2014 - 29 August 2014
duration 2 weeks
credits 3 EC
fee EUR 550

The course provides in-depth knowledge of designing and planning eco-friendly floating structures made of renewable composite materials in both theory and practice. Through a series of lectures, workshops, and guided project work, this course focuses on specific material development and understanding project-related research work. We will discuss approaches and possible solutions to pressing issues, such as the effects of rising sea levels on urban planning concepts, especially in heavily populated coastal areas and cities located near river estuaries. Here, the question of applying eco-friendly material systems play a central role: how much can floating structures with sustainable resources be realized and how can such sustainable solutions be informed by the development of new materials?

In addition to an analysis of current proposed solutions, participants will be asked to formulate possible responses for selected geographical and socio-economic hotspots with the use of eco-friendly material compounds. In guided workshops, the participants will develop their own lightweight materials from sustainable resources and characterize their qualities.

A look behind the scenes at one of Germany's most renowned research institutes, the Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials in Halle, will highlight application-based research as well as underscore the vital nature of the collaboration of designers, scientists and theoreticians for future projects. Discussions and the exchange of ideas with instructional staff, research associates, and other colleagues will also enhance the participants' personal experience.

Course leader

Julia Schilling Dipl.-Ing. Arch.
Julia Schilling lives and works as an independent architect in Berlin. She is specialized in building within existing contexts and cultural heritage preservation emphasizing on eco-friendlyl building materials and in exhi

Target group

As an interdisciplinary colloquium the course offers a unique opportunity for master students, graduates, doctoral candidates, and young professionals in the fields of architecture, urban management, and product design to exchange ideas on a highly contemporary topic.

Participants should have a substantial interest in the topics of the course. Knowledge of concepts of floating architecture and renewable materials as well as lightweight construction is not required but welcome.

The course language in English. Therefore good command of English is required.

Course aim

Students will get an overview about how to use design and material science to meet one of the biggest challenges facing mankind.

Credits info

3 EC
After successful completion of this course you will receive a certificate of participation. It will show the course title, the date and duration of the course, the number of contact hours as well as the main contents and topics.

Fee info

EUR 550: The course fee is 550,-€.
EUR 450: Students and alumni pay the reduced fee of 450,-€.