Reverence and Revolution: Traditional Construction and Post-WWII Built Environment

1.5 units

This course examines the evolution of building and furniture construction techniques throughout the 20th century, focusing on the shift from traditional materials like wood, masonry, and forged metal to industrial materials such as plastics, plywood, and tube steel. Students will explore the historical context and technological advances that transformed construction, particularly in the post–World War II era. Topics include traditional wood frame craftsmanship—joinery, framing, and furniture-making—and how these were altered or replaced by mass-production techniques. The course investigates why materials like plastic and plywood gained popularity, emphasizing how their development led to faster, cheaper, and more temporary construction methods. It also addresses the rise of planned obsolescence and its impact on postwar housing, suburban growth, and the disposability of modern building elements. Through case studies, students will analyze the social and economic implications of these changes. The course integrates research and hands-on practice through 3D CAD, manual fabrication, and CNC processes, encouraging a critical understanding of both traditional and modern construction. By the end, students will grasp how material innovation has shaped architecture, design, and the economics of the built environment.