About this course:

Architecture engages a culture’s deepest social values and expresses them in material, aesthetic form. In this course, you will learn how to “read” architecture as a cultural expression as well as a technical achievement. Vivid analyses of exemplary buildings from a wide range of historical contexts, coupled with hands-on exercises in drawing and modeling, bring you close to the work of an actual architect or historian.

Program Description

Learn about the digital technology and innovation that will change the way we look at buildings forever. Create dynamic, responsive, and efficient spaces in which future generations will thrive. Everything in our buildings is, or soon will be, connected to the Internet. Explore how to build a networked intelligent building and how to take advantage of advanced analytics to increase its performance.

Program Description

Today, cities across the world are shaped by new forms of urbanism, a growing awareness of environmental challenges, and evolving cultural identities. The focus of this two-day program is on developing a broader understanding of how the master planner or designer’s skills contribute to more resilient cities and futures. Panel discussions, field work and interactive activities will explore environmental, economic, and social issues.

Program Description

Explore emerging models and evolving changes in library environments and how changes in service and information technology influence library facility design. Intended for architects and librarians, library staff and trustees, this comprehensive course examines the role of the physical library in the changing digital information landscape.

Program Description

This program examines the planning approaches, retail design and merchandising principles necessary for the creation of place-based commerce. This includes tactics used by premier retail and mixed-use developers and considers how they can be applied to a variety of settings. Retailing—the exchange of goods, services and experiences—is in the midst of change unprecedented in modern times. In a time when the internet globally democratizes shopping, and...

Program Description

The key to solving complex problems is collaboration. This program merges the NCI Charrette System with Design Thinking to offer an advanced collaborative innovation process. You will learn to activate the unique creative potential of all stakeholders as they engage in creating a transformative plan. Whether you are working on a community design, public policy, or a company’s strategic plan, this course will equip you with a flexible, yet replicable, systematic...

Program Description

What makes a place walkable? What do design professionals, engineers, developers, and public officials need to know if they are to make, streets, landscapes, and communities more attractive to pedestrians? Join Jeff Speck for a comprehensive two-day course on the most effective arguments, techniques, and tools for reshaping places in support of walking, biking, and transit, including a design charrette with Somerville chief planner...

Program Description

The city of the future is digital, environmental, and socially friendly. This is the time to prepare and take advantage of the possibilities. The opportunities are endless.

Cities--new and old, large and small-- are looking for ways to differentiate themselves in these rapidly changing times. Environmental and social externalities, technology and innovation will serve as the catalyst for economic growth, enhanced security, improved sustainability and next-generation experiences, thereby changing the way...

Innovation in Action

At Harvard GSD Executive Education, industry and academia's foremost leaders join with accomplished design and real estate professionals from around the world. In this setting, complex challenges are addressed and innovative solutions are created. In our dynamic learning environment, you emerge with practical insights and valuable lessons that can be put into action, right away. You will return to your company transformed and ready to identify, frame, and address your...