Cardboard Models in the Study of Form, Space and Light: a Structured Exercise applied in first year of Architectural Design

Abstract

The practice of teaching through design studios requires constant reflection that should point to ways to enhance learning and build architectural thinking. This article describes the experience of applying an exercise to the students of Architectural Design I from the Architecture and Urbanism undergraduate program at Positivo University, with the goal of presenting architectural fundamentals before the first contact of the student with the architectural design. The activity includes the use of cardboard models for experimentation and creation of three-dimensional forms, for the study of spatial composition, and for the perception of natural light in internal spaces. This paper contextualizes the activity in the academic realm, exposes the pedagogical approach, describes the proposed challenges and dynamics and presents student works. Finally, it provides reflections on the practice of teaching Architectural Design and possible improvements of the exercise.