In the summer of 2020, many public memorials linked to colonial icons were dismantled by protestors in cities around the world. These acts of defiance raised fundamental questions: why and how do certain buildings and monuments become contested symbols of power? How and when does certain ‘architecture’ transform into ‘heritage’? And, importantly, what is the role of the architect in this evolving landscape? Using global case studies, this course will examine how architecture, and space at large, becomes a vessel for contestations of identity, memory and power. It aims to foster critical inquiry and cultural sensitivity towards the political and social roles of architecture.

A drawing is not just a set of lines on paper, but an archive of meaning; a building is not just a technical structure, but a manifestation of context. Drawing from semiotics, critical theory and heritage studies, we will explore how architecture functions not merely as built form, but as a cultural sign imbued with agency. The course invites students to reflect on why certain buildings seem to matter more than others, and how architecture sometimes becomes a symbol of hope, resistance, oppression or even pride. Through this lens, students will consider how we, as architects, often consciously or inadvertently become active agents in contemporary politics.

Methodology

Each session will be divided into two parts: a lecture introducing key concepts, paired with related case studies, followed by a guided discussion and debate based on the week’s assigned readings. Students will be introduced to interdisciplinary tools of research and spatial interpretation, including semiotic analysis, mapping, archival research and visual documentation. We will explore case studies from multiple global contexts across time periods.

Course Output

By the end of the course, the aim is that students will be to conduct architectural and urban research using diverse methods, from spatial analysis to archival research and visual documentation; apply critical and theoretical frameworks to analyse built form and space; analyse how today’s heritage discourse shapes architectural practice; develop case-based comparative analyses; and use text and visual media to form speculative and interpretive arguments. This will be beneficial for students preparing for their Master’s thesis projects, or contemplating advanced doctoral studies, or even those simply curious about related issues.

For the final assignment, students will submit an analytical project exploring a selected architectural or urban case study, individually or in-pairs. The output may include a combination of text, maps, diagrams, sketches, photography or short-form video. Assessment will be based on in-class participation and the academic quality of the final assignment, based on depth of inquiry, conceptual clarity, originality and critical engagement. Detailed schedule, reading list and assignment brief will be shared in class.

Requirements

This course welcomes students with curiosity about urban culture, heritage, identity and contemporary politics. No special software knowledge is required, and no additional costs are anticipated.