The Architectural Design Studio: A Case in the Intersection of the Conventional and the New

Abstract

This study investigated the evolution of the methods and tools used in the architectural design studio. The focus was on the MIM 201 Architectural Design Studio II course, based on a hybrid approach where conventional and new methods are used together. For this reason, the primary data sources of the study are student productions, observations, and comments of studio tutors. While presenting the data in the article, an approach that fragmented the studio was followed instead of a chronological path. Thus, all studio elements were discussed separately, and their potential was demonstrated. The study showed that conventional tools such as context-subject, critiques, and jury are still essential and effective studio components. On the other hand, it was observed that new tools (QD) joining the studio enriched the studio experience, but the potential of some of them (OB) needed to be developed. Study findings also showed that students preferred face-to-face and active communication in the studio. The learning space was one of the most important parts of the process as an atmosphere for student motivation and belonging.