Program Overview

Course Overview

The course Perceived Quality of Architecture (AAR8550) is a doctoral degree level course that provides theoretical knowledge about light and colour as physical phenomena, physiological characteristics of the human visual system, light- and colour design/technology applied in architecture, and visual perception of architectural spaces.

Course Details

• Credits: 7.5
• Level: Doctoral degree level
• Course start: Spring 2026
• Duration: 1 semester
• Language of instruction: English
• Location: Trondheim

Course Content

The course will cover various methods of architectural evaluation, from hand drawings, photography, and systematic light diary, to the semantic environmental description with predefined descriptors and the explorative qualitative method where new descriptors are to be identified.

Learning Outcome

The course aims to provide students with:

• Knowledge: about vision, visual perception, and architectural and scientific methods for evaluation of architectural spaces.
• Skills: to use different methods and tools for evaluation of architectural spaces, both interiors and exteriors.
• General competence: in theoretical investigation, building and testing scientific questions and hypothesis, and scientific writing.

Learning Methods and Activities

The course will be carried out as a mixture of lectures, full-scale assignments in the ROOM laboratory, and individual theoretical investigation. Some of the lectures and assignments will be coordinated with the course AAR4935 Light and colour.

Evaluation

The assessment is based on two components:

• A written report that discusses an issue chosen in consultation with the course supervisor and based on knowledge taught on the course.
• An oral exam where the candidate presents the report and examiners ask in-depth questions. The report and exam weigh relatively 80% and 20%.

Specific Conditions

Admission to a programme of study is required: Architecture (PHAAR).

Recommended and Required Previous Knowledge

• Recommended previous knowledge: Master in architecture.
• Required previous knowledge: Master in architecture or similar.

Course Materials

A series of scientific articles that will be announced at the start of the course.

Subject Areas

• Architectural Design, Form and Colour Studies.

Examination

• Examination arrangement: Aggregate score.
• Grade: Passed / Not Passed.
• The ordinary examination consists of an assignment (80%) and an oral exam (20%).