This course considers the architecture of the Moana (Oceania), or generally understood as the Pacific Islands (includes Aotearoa, New Zealand), from ancient sites to the present day with a focus on appropriate forms, materials and fabrication for future design. Through consideration of history, climate, colonisation, culture and society, economic and other issues it will explore design in customary practice, colonial forms, modernism and contemporary buildings.
This course will focus on looking at Moana-nui-a-Kiwa (Pacific) understandings of space that background the conception of architecture through to practical issues such as the logistics of current building practice and climate change. We will hear from expert knowledge-holders, both academics and practicing architects/designers through both Pacific and Māori lens. Also inviting guest academics and architects abroad, based on their availabilities. The aim of the course is to encourage understanding of past and contemporary context and practices of Pacific architecture that will be useful to designers. Outcomes will involve surveys or case studies (that can be in a variety of media) that document and critique past or current building practices and prepare students for future work in this area. There is also a possibility that as an option, students may travel to the Pacific Islands (TBC) with another design class travelling on a field study trip - optional only.