DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE AND INTERIOR DESIGN

Architecture Handbook 2020/2021

UNIVERSITY OF BAHRAIN | College of Engineering | 2020/2021

College of Engineering

VISION

The vision of the College of Engineering is to be among the leading colleges in

the region and to maintain a respectful international status and reputation by sustaining a
high quality of engineering education and scientific research.

MISSION

To educate students for positions of leadership and innovation in engineering,

architecture, interior design and related fields; widening the horizon of engineering
knowledge through original research, developing and transferring technologies to serve
the local and regional needs and to benefit the public through service to industry,
government, and the engineering profession.

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Department of Architecture and Interior Design

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT

Department of Architecture and Interior Design is a unique department in the

College of Engineering. Its fields of studies: Architecture is a creative, artistic, socially
conscious, design-based disciplines and is situated between Arts and Engineering.

Our graduates learn to think, imagine and create exciting but purposeful built-
environments from cities to room interiors and study philosophies, histories, social
sciences, construction engineering as well as management and professional practice.
They enjoy promising job prospects as architects as well as project managers and
property developers.

Architecture is one of the best professions in the world for those who enjoy
creativity, imagination and unlimited complexity and challenge to innovate. In
Architecture clients pay handsomely for dreaming on their behalf. The department is well
equipped with design studios, a material lab, a model workshop and lecture rooms that
enable students to progressively grasp the complexity of the art of architecture and excel
in becoming designers of outstanding prowess.

With a qualification in Architecture, graduates can work either in architectural firms

or in government agencies dealing with built-environments or set up their own practices
after appropriate work experiences. Our department offers one of the best Architectural
Education in the region.

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DEPARTMENT PROGRAMS

The Department of Architecture and Interior Design offers three undergraduate

programs and will soon offer a Master of Architecture with specialisations in urban
design, housing, digital design, sustainability, landscape architecture and interior design.

The undergraduate programs are:

Bachelor of Architecture
[Link] Interior Design
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture

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Bachelor of Architecture Program

ARCHITECTURE

The National Architecture Accreditation Board (NAAB) of USA has awarded the
NAAB substantial Equivalency status for the five-year Bachelors program in Architecture.
The 169 credit Bachelor of Architecture program begins with an introduction to
Basic Design principles and graphics practices. These will enable the students to produce
effective design communications. The program evolves from the first year to the fifth year
around a core activity; Design. Design progresses from a simple small scale project to a
large and complex project in the Final year with a Graduation Project. The students learn
to design a variety of projects from a simple house to complex buildings like hospitals
and hotels. They learn to understand social cultural, psychological as well as physical and
environmental forces that influence the creation of spaces and structures.

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LEARNING OBJECTIVES

To provide educational opportunities to students to understand the complex nature

of architecture as a socially conscious design activities are:

To develop an effective environment for teaching, learning and research.

To facilitate engagement in research and scholarly activities.
To contribute to interdisciplinary and multi-disciplinary teaching and research
programs.
To serve the community by working with government agencies, private sector,
and professional organisations.
To maintain and continue to enrich the program itself by advancing the quality
of education in architecture.

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Bachelor of Architecture Program

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Upon graduation, a UOB graduate in Architecture should demonstrate:

Being broadly educated in Architecture & design.

An attitude to value lifelong inquisitiveness
Abilities to communicate visually and graphically in a range of media.
To trust the assessment of evidence
An ability to comprehend people, place, and context
The ability to recognise the disparate needs of client, community, and society.

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CURRICULUM

Each student majoring in Architecture must satisfactorily complete a minimum of

169 credits - (134 Professional studies; 35 liberal arts). These credits are divided in:

11 credits of University Requirement (7%)

12 credits of College Requirement (7%)
119 credits of Major Requirement (71%)
9 credits of Major Elective (5%)*
9 credits of General Studies Compulsory (5%)
9 credits of General Studies Elective (5%)^
Architectural Training

* Student must choose three elective courses from Major Elective (Professional Studies) Courses list. One at a
time.
^ Student must choose three elective courses from Liberal Arts Courses. One at a time (Sem 2, Sem 7, Sem 10)
Electives - Liberal Arts & Sciences (some examples) Electives - Professional Studies
MCM 150 Multimedia Skills( Sem 2 )
ART XXX Freehand Sketching( Sem 2 )
SOCIO 161 Introduction to Sociology( Sem 7 )
PSYC 103 Introduction to Psychology( Sem 7 )
XXX Any other University Liberal Arts course approved by the advisor- any semester

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Bachelor of Architecture Program

DETAILED STUDY PLAN

YEAR ONE
semester 1

Course Course Title Course Hours Course Pre Requisite Major

Code Type GPA
LEC PRAC CRD

ARCG 110 Basic Design 0 6 3 MR ___ Yes

ARCG 111 Architectural Graphics I 0 6 3 MR ___ Yes

ARCG 112 Surveying in Architecture 1 4 3 MR ___ Yes

MATHS 101 Calculus I 3 0 3 CR ___ No

ENGL 101 Communication Skills 3 0 3 CR ___ No

LAW 107 Human Rights Principles 2 0 2 UR ___ No

semester 2

Course Course Title Course Hours Course Pre Requisite Major

Code Type GPA
LEC PRAC CRD

ARCG 120 Basic Design II 0 6 3 MR ARCG111 & Yes

ARCG110

ARCG 121 Architectural Graphics II 0 6 3 MR ARCG111 & Yes

ARCG110

PHYCS 107 Physics for Building 3 0 3 MSR ___ No

Design

MATHS 102 Calculus II 3 0 3 CR MATHS 101 No

ENGL 102 Composition & Reading 3 0 3 CR ENGL 101 No

II

XXX Elective - Liberal Arts 3 0 3 MSR ___ No

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YEAR TWO
semester 1

Course Course Title Course Hours Course Pre Requisite Major

Code Type GPA
LEC PRAC CRD

ARCG 210 Architectural Design I 0 10 5 MR ARCG120 & Yes

ARCG121

ARCG 211 History of Architecture I 2 0 2 MR ARCG120 Yes

ARCG 213 Architectural 1 2 2 MR PHYCS107 Yes

Construction I

ARCG 215 Computer Aided 1 4 3 MR ARCG120 & Yes

Architectural Design I ARCG121

ARCG 216 Environmental Systems I 2 2 3 MR ARCG121 Yes

CEG 210 Structural Systems I 3 0 3 MSR MATHS 102 & No

ARCG120

semester 2

Course Course Title Course Hours Course Pre Requisite Major

Code Type GPA
LEC PRAC CRD

ARCG 220 Architectural Design II 0 10 5 MR ARCG210 Yes

ARCG 221 History of Architecture II 2 0 2 MR ARCG211 Yes

ARCG 223 Architectural 1 2 2 MR ARCG213 Yes

Construction II

ARCG 225 Computer Aided 1 4 3 MR ARCG215 Yes

Architectural Design II

ARCG 226 Environmental Systems II 2 2 3 MR ARCG216 Yes

CEG 220 Structural Systems II 3 0 3 MSR CEG210 & No

ARCG210

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Bachelor of Architecture Program

YEAR THREE
semester 1

Course Course Title Course Hours Course Pre Requisite Major

Code Type GPA
LEC PRAC CRD

ARCG 310 Architectural Design III 0 10 5 MR ARCG220 & Yes

ARCG216

ARCG 313 Architectural 2 2 3 MR ARCG223 & Yes

Construction III CEG220

ARCG 314 Theory of Architecture I 2 0 2 MR ARCG220 Yes

ARCG 316 Environmental Systems III 2 2 3 MR ARCG226 Yes

ARCG 317 Urban Design 1 2 2 MR ARCG220 Yes

ARCG 318 Vernacular Architecture 2 0 2 MR ARCG221 Yes

semester 2

Course Course Title Course Hours Course Pre Requisite Major

Code Type GPA
LEC PRAC CRD

ARCG 320 Architectural Design IV 0 10 5 MR ARCG310 Yes

ARCG 323 Islamic Architecture 2 0 2 MR ARCG318 Yes

ARCG 325 Housing 2 0 2 MR ARCG317 Yes

ARCG 326 Theory of Architecture II 3 0 3 MR ARCG314 Yes

ARCG 327 Building Service Systems 2 2 3 MR ARCG313 Yes

ARCG XXX Elective - Professional 3 0 3 ME ARCG310 Yes

Studies

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YEAR FOUR
semester 1

Course Course Title Course Hours Course Pre Requisite Major

Code Type GPA
LEC PRAC CRD

ARCG 399 Architectural Training 0 0 0 MR- Completion of No

training 85 Credits

ARCG 410 Architectural Design V 0 10 5 MR ARCG320 Yes

ARCG 412 Working Drawings I 0 8 4 MR ARCG313 & Yes

ARCG320 &
ARCG327

ARCG 413 Contracts & 3 0 3 MR ARCG320 Yes

Implementations of
Documents

ARCG 414 Contemporary 3 0 3 MR ARCG326 Yes

Architecture

XXX Elective - Liberal Arts 3 0 3 GSE ___ No

semester 2

Course Course Title Course Hours Course Pre Requisite Major

Code Type GPA
LEC PRAC CRD

ARCG 420 Architectural Design VI 0 10 5 MR ARCG410 Yes

ARCG 423 Working Drawings II 0 8 4 MR ARCG412 Yes

ARCG XXX Elective - Professional 3 0 3 ME ARCG410 Yes

Studies

ISLM 101 Islamic Culture 3 0 3 UR ___ No

HIST 122 Modern Bahraini History 3 0 3 UR ___ No

& Culture

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Bachelor of Architecture Program

YEAR FIVE
semester 1

Course Course Title Course Hours Course Pre Requisite Major

Code Type GPA
LEC PRAC CRD

ARCG 510 Architectural Design VII 0 10 5 MR ARCG420 Yes

ARCG 511 Graduation Project I - 2 0 2 MR ARCG420 Yes

Program Stage

ARCG XXX Elective - Professional 3 0 3 ME ARCG420 Yes

Studies

ARAB 110 Classic Arabic Literature 3 0 3 UR ___ No

semester 2

Course Course Title Course Hours Course Pre Requisite Major

Code Type GPA
LEC PRAC CRD

ARCG 520 Graduation Project II - 0 14 7 MR ARCG511. & Yes

Design Stage ARCG510

ARCG 521 Architectural Professional 2 0 2 MR ARCG413 Yes

Practice

ARCG 522 Project Management 1 2 2 MR ARCG413 Yes

XXX Elective - Liberal Arts 3 0 3 GSE ARCG420 No

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LIST OF ELECTIVES - Liberal Arts and Sciences (Examples)

Course Code Course Title

MCM 150 Multimedia Skills

ART XXX Freehand Sketching

SOCIO 161 Introduction to Sociology

PSYC 103 Introduction to Psychology

XXX Any other university Liberal Arts and Sciences course approved by the Advisor

LIST OF ELECTIVES - Professional Studies

Course Code Course Title Course Hours Pre Requisite

LEC PRAC CRD

ARCG 328 Interior Design for Architects 3 0 3 ___

ARCG 329 Computer Animations 3 0 3 ___

ARCG 330 Advanced Building Technology 3 0 3 ___

ARCG 331 Special Topics in Architecture 3 0 3 ___

ARCG 424 Landscape Architecture 3 0 3 ___

ARCG 426 Advanced Topics in Computer 3 0 3 ___

Applications

ARCG 427 Research Methods in 3 0 3 ___

Architecture

ARCG 555 Energy Efficient Architectural 3 0 3 ___

Design

ARCG 557 Architectural Heritage and 3 0 3 ___

Conservation

ARCG 559 Behavioral Factors in 3 0 3 ___

Architecture

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Bachelor of Architecture Program

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Course Code: ARCG 110 Course Title: Basic Design I

Role of Basic Design in architectural context. Design elements: point, line, shape, form, space,
colour, texture, and light. Design principles: proportion, harmony, rhythm, emphasis, dominance, focal
point, balance, and unity. Spatial relationships: space within a space, adjacent spaces, interlocking spaces,
spaces linked by a common space. Types of design organisations: centralised, linear, clustered, radial, and
grid. Two and three dimensional design problems emphasising creative thinking and processing the given
information.

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 Course Code: ARCG 112 Course Title: Surveying in Architecture
Surveying instruments and their use. Mapping the site; determining the surface configuration,
contour lines and dimensions of the site features such as existing buildings on site, roads, sidewalks, plants
etc. Sectional drawings of site, definition of slopes in third dimension. Producing measured drawings of
buildings and building elements.

Course Code: ARCG 120 Course Title: Basic Design II

Basic information on colour, texture and light and their effects on perception of spaces and
surfaces. Relationships and differences between abstract and architectural design. Functional definition of a
space; identifying users’ activities and requirements. Movement through space and/or space groups.
Space requirements for activities, circulation, furniture, and equipment. Functional relationships among
activity areas and/or spaces. Emphasis will be placed on creativity, conceptual thinking and implementation
of information given in Basic Design I.

Course Code: ARCG 121 Course Title: Architectural Graphics II

Drafting capabilities in 3-dimensional representation of architectural mass and space, with the aid
of perspective projection for architectural interiors and exteriors. Shades and shadows in plans and
elevations, as well as shadows in perspective projections. Enhancing architectural communication
techniques with the aid of instruments in a variety of assignments.

Course Code: PHYCS 107 Course Title: Physics for Building Design
Fundamentals of heat transfer through building envelope: Air to air heat transmittance (U), internal
and external surface conductance (h), thermal conductivity of building materials (k). Relationships between
interior finishing materials and (U) [Link] of light, light transmission, reflection and absorption. Basic
properties of light (photometric quantities): Light intensity (I), luminous flux (lx), illumination level (E),
luminance (L). Photometric laws: Abney’s law, inverse square law, cosine law.
Nature of sound: Audible sounds. Sound quantities: Sound intensity level (I) and sound pressure
level (p).Sound reflection and absorption in enclosed spaces. Reverberant sound and reverberation time
(RT). Sound transmissions through partitions and building envelope. Sound reduction index.

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Bachelor of Architecture Program

Course Code: ARCG 210 Course Title: Architectural Design I

Architectural Design I is intended to build upon the ideas and skills developed in the core courses
of Basic Design. It is an introductory design course aiming at understanding principles and processes of
solving architectural problems in a studio setting. Students are encouraged to explore fundamental
architectural concepts of space, form, composition, function, circulation, orientation, as well as the
aesthetical issues.

Course Code: ARCG 211 Course Title: History of Architecture I

The architectural heritage of ancient civilisation, Egyptian, Mesopotamian, Greek and Roman, and
initiating the form concepts pertaining to these cultures. To study particular examples examining the
various factors affecting the evolution of the built environment and ensuing architectural developments,
the appreciation of the theoretical bases and architectural concepts underlie these accomplishments. The
course also includes field trips and applied studies.

Course Code: ARCG 213 Course Title: Architectural Construction I

The concept of 'production of the built-environment' as a series of interrelated processes starting
with initiation and extending to design, construction and operation & maintenance. An overall analysis of
'building construction' process. Viewing the building itself as a system, identifying its sub-systems such as,
structure, enclosure, vertical transportation, mechanical, electrical, sanitary etc. Starting with the 'structural
system', introducing major types of structures (such as, bearing wall, framed, shell, space structures etc.)
employed in Architectural design in the past and at present. Review of principal types of building materials
(such as, timber, stone, metals and concrete) that are generally applicable to the construction of different
building sub-systems.

Course Code: ARCG 215 Course Title: Computer Aided Architectural Design I
Applying standard computer programs widely being used in the market to produce models and
create working drawings. Current and potential digital applications of computers in the design profession.

Course Code: ARCG 216 Course Title: Environmental Systems I

Climatic elements which affect and interact with the building and human being. The interaction
between man and climate. Human thermal comfort requirements. The interaction between climate and
building. Means of sun protection, requirements and importance of natural ventilation shall be
investigated. Thermal insulation requirements and thermo physical properties of building materials.

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 Course Code: CEG 210 Course Title: Structural Systems I
Fundamental concepts of structural modelling and structural behaviour. Free body diagrams and
equilibrium equations. Analysis of simple structural systems. Internal forces in trusses and beams. Shear
force, bending moment and axial force diagrams. Centroids and moment of inertia. Stress and strain
concepts. Axial, bending and shear stresses. Deflection of beams.

Course Code: ARCG 220 Course Title: Architectural Design II

Architectural Design II aims at deepening the understanding of architectural processes and
concepts introduced in Architectural Design I. The projects seek to raise awareness of the multiple
considerations that shape exterior and interior spaces of buildings. In addition to site analysis and basic
structural considerations, gathering and analysing information about human needs and aspirations are
required to guide design development stages.
Course Code: ARCG 221 Course Title: History of Architecture II
The ramifications and concepts underlying the architectural heritage ranging from the early
Christian, Byzantine, Romanesque, Gothic eras, through the Renaissance and Classical Revivals in Europe
and USA. Various factors affecting the evolution of the built environment, and the ensuring of architectural
developments. Examples of ancient buildings in these eras are studied and analysed to enhance the
students’ ability to appreciate the theoretical bases and architectural concepts underlying these
accomplishments. The course also includes field trips and applied studies.

Course Code: ARCG 223 Course Title: Architectural Construction II

According to the erection sequence, analysis of structural and vertical transportation systems of
building. Site work: soils, excavation, slope retention and drainage. Sub-structure: foundations, basements.
Superstructure: masonry bearing wall construction, steel and concrete framing, structural floors of steel and
concrete and ground floors, roof structures. Vertical transportation systems: stairs, ramps and lifts.

Course Code: ARCG 225 Course Title: Computer Aided Architectural Design II
Advanced techniques and capabilities through applying standard computer programs for
modelling, representation, lighting, materials, mapping and rendering.

Course Code: ARCG 226 Course Title: Environmental Systems II

Psychometric chart. Air conditioning, mechanical refrigeration, unitary systems, window unit, split
unit, packaged units, central systems, air distribution systems, evaporative coolers, calculation of air-
conditioning load, vertical transportation systems in buildings, elevator and escalator selection, an
introduction to fire protection systems in building.

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Bachelor of Architecture Program

Course Code: CEG 220 Course Title: Structural Systems II

Behaviour and design of overall structural systems for buildings made out of wood, concrete and
steel materials. Systems used for resisting lateral loads such as rigid frames, braced frames and shear walls.
Systems used to span long distances such as trusses and space frames, cables and membranes, arches,
domes and shells.

Course Code: ARCG 310 Course Title: Architectural Design III

Architectural Design III emphasises the environmental issues as a major determinant of
architectural form. Analysis and synthesis of climatic information of the physical environment in deciding
the orientation, form, layout, openings, shading devices, and built and open spaces. Traditional
environmental control techniques in the present context.

Course Code: ARCG 313 Course Title: Architectural Construction III

Review of building enclosure: Roofing (low-slope roofs, steep roofs). Non-structural walls and
partitions, windows and doors. Various types of cladding (masonry veneer, stone, precast concrete, GRC,
metal, glass etc. claddings) and suspended ceilings. Finishes: materials and components for finishing walls
(plasters, paints, gypsum boards, etc.) and floors (stone, ceramic and plastic tiling, parquet floors, terrazzo,
carpeting etc.).

Course Code: ARCG 314 Course Title: Theory of Architecture I

The course introduces architecture as a creative domain and the numerous approaches that inform
its practice. It examines the generative processes of other art forms such as music, and sculpture to
construct an understanding of the process. It positions architecture within the historical and cultural
domains and emphasises its visual presence. In introduces the philosophies articulated by celebrated
architects and offers an understanding of the value of architectural ideas in generating architecture.

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 Course Code: ARCG 316 Course Title: Environmental Systems III
Principles and requirements for good and comfortable vision. Light and its characteristics. Effects of
colours on the design of buildings. Surface characteristics (reflection, diffusion, brightness, glare etc)
natural and artificial illumination (design, integration and evaluation of performance). Principles and
requirements for good acoustics. Sound and its characteristics. Effects of sound in building design. Design
for good acoustics and noise control. Measurements and evaluation of acoustical performance (special
emphasis to Mosques and Auditoriums).

Course Code: ARCG 317 Course Title: Urban Design

Introduction to Urban Design through three perspectives: a) Historical background - most
significant utopian visions of the XVIII to XX century; b) City structure and context – cultural influence of
urban form c) The public as a client, social responsibility and planning processes. These will be followed by
the introduction of urban design principles, such as hierarchy and spatial composition: nodes and patterns,
city image and identity of place, sense of place and place-making, social interaction and public space.

Course Code: ARCG 318 Course Title: Vernacular Architecture

Introduces vernacular processes of building and examines the formative forces and influences that
contribute to the production of indigenous architecture in the world. Focuses on the significance of culture
and tradition as a form giving force that shapes architecture and the settlement patterns by looking at local,
regional as well as global cultures. Contrasts the significant differences between professional practice and
peoples own buildings to derive lessons for a culturally relevant production of architecture. In Architectural
Design IV, students will be given an opportunity to apply the knowledge they have gained in architectural
history and theory courses by working on appropriate architectural design problems in historical, urban or
natural context. In this course, their understanding of Architectural design process will be further
developed.

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Bachelor of Architecture Program

Course Code: ARCG 323 Course Title: Islamic Architecture

The course offers an introduction to Islamic architecture and an overview of the influence of Islam
on the built- environment. It focuses on Islamic principles that shaped the built-environment such as
privacy, neighbourhood, Waqf, inheritance and the direction to Quibla etc. and their evolution over time
and regions giving rise to a variety of architectural forms in different contexts. A broad analysis of the
development of Islamic cities and the building types such as mosques, markets and madrasas etc. is
presented together with a reflection on the applicability of their principles in the contemporary
architectural practice.

Course Code: ARCG 325 Course Title: Housing

The course provides an insight into the complex and multi-dimensional nature of housing as the
spatial development of human habitations in response to social, economic, cultural, administrative, physical
and environmental aspects guided by national policies. It introduces contemporary issues, their historical
background and theoretical approaches and practices that have evolved over time. It explores the
spontaneous development processes of people versus professional production processes. Its focus is upon
understanding the architectural aspects to help architects to intervene into the design and planning of
culturally appropriate human settlements.

Course Code: ARCG 326 Course Title: Theory of Architecture II

The course introduces architecture as a visual and spatial experience and the role of perception
and habitation. It focuses on the emotional and tactile dimensions of built form and sensual and visual
articulation of form and space as the means by which architecture could influence people. It offers an
introduction to the ideas of ‘space’ and ‘place’; definitions, meanings, and concepts and the ways in which
spaces become places. Production of architecture is viewed as a transformation between imaginary places
and real places whereby an understanding of architecture as ‘place- making’ is constructed. The course
offers an approach to architecture based on the processes that generate ideas potent in creating
meaningful poetic forms and places.

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 Course Code: ARCG 327 Course Title: Building Service Systems
Basic principles and appropriate application and performance of building service systems such as
plumbing, electrical, vertical transportation, security, and fire protection systems.

Course Code: ARCG 410 Course Title: Architectural Design V

In Architectural Design V, students are expected to further develop their architectural design skills
by also having a particular opportunity to apply the knowledge they have gained in technical courses by
working on appropriate architectural design problems in any context. The 'design development' stage of
the projects completed in this studio can be undertaken in ARCG 412 Working Drawings II course in the
next semester.

Course Code: ARCG 412 Course Title: Working Drawings I

Introduction to techniques and graphics conventions and standards used in working drawings with
stress on the plans, elevations, sections, and construction details. Interrelationship of design, working
drawings and construction. Each student to produce at least one set of architectural working drawing for a
project, which he/she designed in a previous semester. Coordination and checking of drawings (plans,
elevations, sections, detail and services layouts). Teaching is by means of lectures, studio works, site visits.

Course Code: ARCG 413 Course Title: Contracts & Implementations of Documents
Introduction to the concepts of project, project management, project delivery and project life-
cycle. Context and life- cycle of building projects extending from planning to tendering and construction
phases. Different ways of selecting a contractor and making contracts in the tendering phase: Competition
and negotiation, single stage and two-stage tendering, fixed price, cost reimbursement, target cost
contracts etc. Analysis of the primary contract documents involved in the tendering phase: Construction
drawings, specifications and bills of quantities. Overview of the various systems currently utilised in
delivering (or procuring) building projects: General contracting, design and build, management
contracting, construction management etc. Current laws and regulations governing construction tenders
and contracts in Bahrain.

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Bachelor of Architecture Program

Course Code: ARCG 414 Course Title: Contemporary Architecture

Contemporary architectural movements. Various factors affecting the form of the present day built
environments and urban developments. Study and analysis of various examples of contemporary
architecture to enable the students to absorb the theoretical basis and concepts underlying the
accomplishments and movements, with the aim of helping the student's to discover their personal
orientations.

Course Code: ARCG 420 Course Title: Architectural Design VI

Architectural Design VI is an advanced level studio concerned with the design of multi-purpose
buildings in urban context with particular emphasis on relating the existing features of the urban tissue with
new building complexes by also taking local building regulations, codes and bylaws into account.

Course Code: ARCG 423 Course Title: Working Drawings II

Each student has to select 16 to 20 areas of his/her architectural working drawing which, was
prepared for ARCG 412 Working Drawings I course. These areas to cover: external walls and internal
partitions, balconies, staircases, roof, external and internal doors, windows, covered ways, canopies,
external landscape features, ceiling, furniture and fittings. The student has to develop these items into a
detailed working drawing where each area will be presented in one or more sheets. The course stresses on
in depth details of each selected area with emphasis on innovation, practicality and functionality of the
detail, selected materials, fixing and construction techniques. The teaching is by means of lectures, studio
works, site visits.

Course Code: ARCG 510 Course Title: Architectural Design VII

Architectural Design VII is the last advanced level studio before Senior Projects where students are
expected to demonstrate the knowledge and architectural design skills they have gained so far by working
on highly complex design problems in different contexts and with equal emphasis on cultural,
environmental, social and technical issues.

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 Course Code: ARCG 511 Course Title: Graduation Project I - Program Stage
Preparation of the architectural program for the graduation project which establishes its pertinent
goals, user's needs and activities, and consequently design the spatial and other requirements which
accommodate such users and their needs. The program takes into consideration all functional, human,
technical, and environmental factors affecting the architectural design.

Course Code: ARCG 520 Course Title: Graduation Project II - Design Stage
The objective of this final design studio is to allow the student to express her/his own ideas,
character, and architectural identity, through creative design for the project which was selected in the
graduation project I.

Course Code: ARCG 521 Course Title: Architectural Professional Practice

Understanding of the building team: Client, designers, contracting team and the statuary
authorities. Overview of the development of the Architectural profession from past to present both in
Europe and in Islamic countries. The managerial aspects of Architectural practice today: Architect's
registration, organising an Architectural firm and individual design projects, various ways of obtaining
projects, information retrieval for design etc. Current laws, regulations and building codes pertinent to
Architectural and Engineering practice in Bahrain.

Course Code: ARCG 522 Course Title: Project Management

Further analysis of project management concepts: Project management knowledge areas and
project management context. Fundamentals of project time management: activity definition, activity
sequencing, activity duration estimation, schedule development, schedule control. Fundamentals of project
cost management: resource planning, cost estimating, cost budgeting, cost control. Manual and computer
aided project management lab exercises regarding the time and cost management of small building
projects: making work breakdown, planning resources, estimating costs (bills of quantities), determining
the critical path, levelling resources etc.

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Bachelor of Architecture Program

Course Code: ARCG 328 Course Title: Interior Design for Architects
History background of interior design, ancient, classic neoclassic and contemporary styles. Space
arrangements, circulatory patterns, walls, partitions, ceilings and openings, finishing materials, light, colour
texture, furniture design and arrangement, indoor planting. The format includes lectures, slides
demonstration and studio exercises covering static and dynamic areas.

Course Code: ARCG 329 Course Title: Computer Animations

Introducing the basics and concepts of animation. Implementation of computer animation
techniques in architecture and urban design projects thorough standard programs. Employing advanced
visualisation and walk-through principles in the design process and representation. Introduction to the
Virtual Reality concepts and environments, and proceeding to create 4D and VR models of design projects.

Course Code: ARCG 330 Course Title: Advanced Building Technologies

Analysis of advanced technologies in building construction to include site works, plant and
equipment. Classification and review of contemporary materials and methods used in manufacturing
building components and in their assembly on site. Major building production trends with regard to
different production location and techniques such as; system building, component approach, building with
modules and unconventional cast-in-situ techniques. Integration of building systems in design.

Course Code: ARCG 331 Course Title: Special Topics in Architecture

Open

Course Code: ARCG 424 Course Title: Landscape Architecture

History and applications of the process of landscape architecture through studying the relevant
vocabulary, the topographic features of a site and the various ways of shaping and grading such sites and
the technology and method involved. Attention is paid to the local environment and natural resources of
the site, the local and regional vegetation and various ways of looking after it, and the way all these aspects
influence both public health and preservation of natural resources.

Course Code: ARCG 426 Course Title: Advanced Topics in Computer Applications.
Introducing the basics and concepts of animation. Implementation of computer animation
techniques in architecture and urban design projects thorough standard programs. Employing advanced
visualisation and walk-through principles in the design process and representation. Introduction to the
Virtual Reality concepts and environments, and proceeding to create 4D and VR models of design projects.

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 Course Code: ARCG 427 Course Title: Research Methods In Architecture.
Research processes in architecture. A review of research strategies, designs and settings. An
exploration of research methods as related to programming, design and evaluation; experimental
approaches, sampling procedures, analysis of documents and observations, questionnaires, interviews, as
well as the processing, analysis and interpretation of data and presentation of findings. Several case studies
from the local environment will be examined, enabling students to obtain first-hand experience in research
development, administration and analysis.

Course Code: ARCG 555 Course Title: Energy Conservation in Buildings

Green building design strategies, Energy needs and energy requirements in buildings. Climatic
design and the use of Bio-climatic Chart for designing energy efficient buildings in tropical regions with
special reference to Bahrain. The use of renewable energies in buildings. Computer simulation programs
for the analysis and studies of energy use in buildings.

Course Code: ARCG 557 Course Title: Conservation of Buildings

Introduction to Architectural Conservation and its Concepts. Terminologies in Conservation
(Monument, Restoration, Preservation), Heritage theory and its practice to focus especially on how
preservation theories and experimental practices helped to redefine and advance new conceptions of
architecture, cities and landscapes. Documentation and recording of heritage buildings, Conservation
process, analysis and design. Constructive conservation and adaptive re- use in the context of Bahrain.
Phases Involved in Restoration of Single Monuments, International Organisations, International charters
and legislation, World Heritage Sites in Bahrain.

Course Code: ARCG 559 Course Title: Behavioural Factors In Architecture

This course offers an introduction to the social and psychological aspects of architecture and to
environment- behaviour research, & environmental psychology fields. It introduces the internal processes
that generate human behaviour, and the external processes that influence it. The course discusses theories
of environmental perception and cognition, privacy, territoriality, personal space, imageability, identity &
culture. It is aimed to construct a link to architecture as ‘place-making’ through the theories of ‘psychology
of place’. The course intends to inculcate an approach to architecture based on environment-behaviour
research in creating meaningful forms and places.

Course Code: ARCG 556 Course Title: Special Topics in Advanced Studies in Architecture
Open

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Bachelor of Architecture Program

Course Code: ARCG 399 Course Title: Architectural Training

This course exposes the students to the real world to gain practical experience in working in a
professional practice

Course Code: ENGL 101 Course Title: Communication Skills I

This course focuses on reading skills and strategies and language development. The reading
section concentrates on high-interest contemporary topics and encourages students to increase speed and
efficiency. The writing component, integrated to the reading materials, reviews grammatical structures,
develops language accuracy and introduces paragraph writing. Students are required to upgrade their
grammar, reading, and listening skills on the internet.

Course Code: ENGL 102 Course Title: Composition and Reading II

A continuation of English 101 which further develops the students' skills in reading and writing. The
course exposes students to wider range of reading material aimed at developing their understanding of
different styles of English.

Course Code: MATHS 101 Course Title: Calculus I

Algebra. Functions and graphs. Trigonometry. Conic sections. Limits and continuity. Derivatives and
integrals. Applications of derivatives which include mean value theorem, extrema of functions and
optimisation. Definite integrals and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.

Course Code: MATHS 102 Course Title: Calculus II

Applications of definite integrals, including areas, volumes and surface areas of solids of revolution,
arc length and centroids. Transcendental functions, indeterminate form and L’Hopital’s Rule. Techniques of
integration and improper integrals. Infinite series, power series. Maclaurin and Taylor Theorem.

27
 Course Code: ARAB 110 Course Title: Arabic Language Skills
This course focuses on basic Arabic skills including form, function, and meaning. It also helps the
student to appreciate and understand structures and approach them from a critical point of view, through
various genres in literature.

Course Code: HIST 122 Course Title: Modern History of Bahrain and Citizenship
Spatial identity of Bahrain: Brief history of Bahrain until the 18th century; the historical roots of the
formation of the national identity of Bahrain since the 18th century; the modern state and evolution of
constitutional life in Bahrain; the Arabic and Islamic dimensions of the identity of Bahrain; the core values of
Bahrain’s society and citizenship rights (legal, political, civil and economic); duties; responsibilities and
community participation; economic change and development in Bahrain; Bahrain’s Gulf, Arab and
international relations.

Course Code: HRLC 107 Course Title: Human Rights

This course deals with the principles of human rights in terms of the definition of human rights,
scope, sources with a focus on the International Bill of Human Rights; The Charter of the United Nations;
Universal Declaration of Human Rights; The International Covenant on Economics, Social and Culture
rights; Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment;
Mechanics and the Constitutional Protection of Rights and Public Freedoms in Kingdom of Bahrain.

Course Code: ISLM 101 Course Title: Islamic Culture

An introduction to the general outline and principles of Islamic culture, its general characteristics,
its relationships with other cultures, general principles of Islam in beliefs, worship, legislation and ethics.

28
Bachelor of Architecture Program

ADMISSION AND APTITUDE TEST

Admission to all undergraduate programs of the department is based on an

Aptitude Test which examines a candidates’ imaginative and creativity skills, abstract
reasoning and drawing skills as well as spatial awareness, spatial memory and attention
to detail. This test should measure the candidate’s ability to reason with visual
configurations – such as patterns – and is a non-verbal measure of reasoning ability. It is
also concerned with the evaluation of visual memory, spatial organisation, drawing
abilities, and communication capability in simple designs.

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TRANSFERRING BETWEEN PROGRAMS

Since the admission to all the three programs offered by the Department of
Architecture and Interior Design is based on a single Aptitude Test, it is possible for a
student registered in one program to transfer to another program specifically in the first
year. However, there are specific courses in the three programs after the first year and
movements across the different programs will be difficult and not all courses followed in
one program could be made equivalent in the other programs.
Students who have initially registered in any other program at the UoB may also
apply for transfer to any of the programs offered by the Department at the beginning of
any given year. However, they will need to pass the Aptitude Test for admission and only
some courses followed earlier which may have equivalencies in the Architecture program
will be recognised.

30
Bachelor of Architecture Program

31
CHAIR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE AND INTERIOR DESIGN

Dr. Haifa Al Khalifa is the Chairman of the Department of Architecture and

Interior Design since December 2019. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree of Science in
Interior Architecture from Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University and a Master’s Degree
in Business Administration (MBA) from New York Institute of Technology. She earned her
PhD in architecture from the university of Cardiff in 2017 with specialisation in History of
Islamic Architecture.
She is the Chair for the research lab of culture and architectural aspects and her
primary areas of research include the history and historiography of Islamic architecture,
cultures, Islamic art, urban history and traditional architecture of the Arabian Gulf region
and the architecture of the contemporary mosque.
Dr. Haifa Al-Khalifa was the Program Coordinator of interior design program from
September 2018 to December 2019 and held the Chair position for the CIDA
accreditation committee for the interior Design Programme. She is available at 33-103.

32
Bachelor of Architecture Program

ARCHITECTURE PROGRAM COORDINATOR

Dr. Huda Almadhoob has a PhD from the Bartlett School of Construction and
Project Management (CPM) at University College London. Prior to this, she received her
MSc. degree in Project and Enterprise Management (with distinction) from CPM. Huda
worked at the Architecture and Interior Design Department after finishing her bachelor’s
degree in Architecture from University of Bahrain. Her PhD research project titled: “Self-
Organising Networks in Complex Infrastructure Projects: the Case of London Bank
Station Capacity Upgrade Project” was part of the Centre for Organisational Network
Analysis (CONA-UCL) partnership with Transport of London. Her project has won the
Hamdan Bin Mohammed Award for Innovation in Project Management – Innovative use of
Project Management Practices – Academic Category, 2019. The research establishes a
new theoretical framework for managing large construction projects, grounded in
complexity theory with reference to social network theory and its analytical techniques.
Huda’s main research interests involve organisational behaviours, Supply Chain
Management and the application of Social Network Analysis in the study of construction
project-based networks.

33
 The Faculty of the architecture program is comprised of qualified and experienced
academics of many nationalities including Bahrainis, committed to provide students with
an intellectually rich and challenging learning experience. Most of them have contributed
to the advancement of the discipline and profession of architecture through teaching as
well as creative, scholarly, and professional work in addition to significant research.

FULL TIME FACULTY

Rank Name Email Office Extension

Number

Associate Dr. Ranjith Dayaratne kdayaratne@[Link] 35-106 6065

Professor

Associate Dr. Eslam El Ghonoimy eelghonaimy@[Link] 35-117A 6927

Professor

Associate Dr. Naser Alnaser nalnaser@[Link] 15-207A 6767

Professor

Assistant Dr. Fay Al Khalifa fayalkhalifa@[Link] 33-201B 6113

Professor

Assistant Dr. Huda Al Madhoub halmadhoob@[Link] 27A-11 6209

Professor

Assistant Dr. Manal Khalaf mjkhalaf@[Link] 27-110 6064

Professor

Assistant Dr. May Khalfan mkhalfan@[Link] 35-114 6707

Professor

34
Bachelor of Architecture Program

FULL TIME FACULTY

Rank Name Email Office Extension

Number

Lecturer Mrs. Layla Karajica lkarajica@[Link] 33-205 6169

Lecturer Mr. Weldy Eka Saputra wsaputra@[Link] 35-213 6071

Lecturer Mrs. Dalia Shamshuldin samalalawi@[Link] 35-111 6212

Lecturer Ms. Ayesha Agha Shah aashah@[Link] 27-113 6150

Lecturer Ms. Susana Saraiva ssoares@[Link] 35-211 6128

Lecturer Mrs. Sonia Lamela slamela@[Link] 33-210A 6038

Lecturer Mr. Abdullh Al Zobair mzobair@[Link] 29-210 6096

Lecturer Mrs. Afaf Ibrahim afibrahim@[Link] 35-113 6248

Instructor Ms. Abeer Abubaker aibrahim@[Link] 29-104 6024

Teaching and Ms. Wafa Al Ghatam walghatam@[Link] 34-114 6267

Research
Assistant

Teaching and Mr. Mahmoud Khan makhan@[Link] 34-113 ——

Research (on leave)
Assistant

Teaching and Ms. Maryam Alfadhel maalfadhel@[Link] 33-212 6173

Research
Assistant

Teaching and Ms. Abeer Qaed akayed@[Link] 35-113 6248

Research
Assistant

Teaching and Ms. Nada Mahmoud nmahmood@[Link] 33-212A 6245

Research
Assistant

Teaching and Ms. Fatema Ahmed falhammadi@[Link] —— ——

Research (on leave)
Assistant

Teaching and Ms. Dina Abdullah diabdulla@[Link] —— ——

Research
Assistant

Teaching and Mrs. Noor Alalawi nalalawi@[Link] 33-114 ——

Research
Assistant

Teaching and Ms. Omaima Alabbasi oalabbasi@[Link] —— ——

Research (on leave)
Assistant

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PART TIME FACULTY

The Bachelor of Architecture program employs on a semester basis a large

number of Part-Time Faculty from the Industry who bring to the program real experience
from the field. They will teach courses and you will come to know them as they are
assigned at the beginning of each semester. Their time tables and contact details will be
available with Ms. Ayesha Ebrahim (aamebrahim@[Link]) at building 33-103.

36
Bachelor of Architecture Program

STUDIO TEACHING: DESIGN

The Architectural Design is essentially the core course that teaches the students
the essence of architecture. The sequence of these courses consists of seven (7) studio
courses ranging from ARCG 210 to ARCG 510. In addition to these, students are required
to complete two (2) Graduation projects. The Graduation Project is the culmination of all
design learning where the student chooses a project of one’s own liking and develops its
program and a design proposal.

DESIGN JURIES

Design projects are always evaluated at ‘Design Juries’ which involves a student
presenting the graphically produced design proposal explained verbally. The verbal
presentation involves theoretical and philosophical ideas as well as explanations of
practical aspects such as construction details, furniture arrangements, contextual
relationships etc. Usually there are two juries for a given Design Studio: one in the Middle
of the Semester – Mid Term Jury; and another at the end of the semester – Final Jury. A
jury panel is comprised of the instructor who taught the course and external ‘jurors’ who
will criticise the student’s work while evaluating and offering feedback.

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ARCHITECTURE TRAINING

All students following the Bachelor of Architecture program are offered a single
period of training in an architectural office either in the private sector or in the public
sector during one of the summer semesters. The intention is to enable the student to
understand how architecture is practiced outside in the real world where one gains
hands on experience in working in an office or at a site. The course is carefully planned,
through which the students are placed in an organisation under the supervision of an
architect. The Training Coordinators will monitor the student’s progress and the student is
required to submit a report at the end of the training. This work is assessed and a student
has to pass the Training to graduate.

38
Bachelor of Architecture Program

STUDIO CULTURE

The design studios are treated as places of serious learning more than as places
for fun. Students attend them regularly and attendance is registered. Students may
occupy specific places when they work in the studios. We consider studios as places with
individual spaces in shared settings. Each student will have a drawing board, a desk and
a swivel chair and access to power supply for the use of personal computers. The
university does not provide the computers but students may possess their own laptops.
The students are expected to attend the studios on time. It is the university policy
that this attendance is compulsory and any failure beyond a certain percentage will
disqualify a student from being graded. Once when the students are in the studio, they
will usually stay the full period except break-time, either working on their own or in-
group, supervised by one or more design instructors.
The students are expected to come prepared to learn and bring to the studios
their past work, in drawings sketches or laptops and actively participate in the discussions
of the studios. They are expected to actively seek tutoring by the instructors. The studio
work is assessed and in the grading system, there is an instructor’s share of 20% for
studio performance. This may involve attendance, working in the studios and progress
being made. The students are expected to participate in the collective, mid-semester
design juries, in making presentations, or in commenting on other students‘ work. Studio
is often typified by group work where pre-design development will involve a number of
groups researching and developing different aspects of a project and sharing the
knowledge gained. Nevertheless, progress is made as individuals, whose achievements
are also evaluated often as individual achievements.
A studio culture policy is generally implemented by the Faculty teaching studios
and classes as well as by the students themselves. The university administration is not
involved in its implementation except when a student or Faculty member raises an issue.
When issues arise, the procedure is: if it involves students, the instructor responsible for
the class/studio takes up the matter; if the matter involves both students and faculty, it is
taken up by the Coordinator of the Program in consultation with the Chair.

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40
Bachelor of Architecture Program

Architecture Main Office - Building 33

STUDIOS AND CLASSROOMS

Architecture studios and classrooms are located in buildings scattered around the
Isa Town Campus. Please see the map above for locations. The facilities used by the
Department of Architecture are distributed between six buildings (15, 27, 27a, 28, 33, &
35) all at Isa Town Campus. In addition, there are halls (12, 16, and hall 126 in building 36)
that can be occasionally booked for events such as Design Juries or public lectures.
Architecture Main Office is situated in Building 33 which has a courtyard. The courtyard is
often a place where exhibitions and other social events take place.

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GATHERING SPACES

Apart from the studios and classrooms, the Isa Town campus has a number of
common spaces where students can gather together and work together. They are the
Library and the cafeterias. Design studios or classrooms can also be used if they are
available.

WORKING LATE HOURS

Students are entitled to use the spaces of the University under the supervision of
an instructor until 7.00 PM on any working day. No student will be allowed to stay after
7.00 without permission and without the presence of an instructor.

WORKING ON WEEKENDS

Sometimes students may want to come to the university on week-ends. This is

permitted provided there is a written approval from security and an instructor is present.
Such requests must be approved by an instructor and the Chair. Any such requests must
be made before 12.00 AM on Thursdays.

COLLABORATION AND SHARING OF KNOWLEDGE

University is a place where students acquire knowledge and learning individually

as well as collectively. Studios and classrooms only provide guidance and the students
must endeavour to actively seek knowledge collectively outside the studio and class
times.

42
Bachelor of Architecture Program

WORK ETHICS

Cheating:
The university considers academic integrity important, and cheating at
examinations a serious offence. It imposes heavy penalties for cheating. Hence, a week
prior to the examination, a policy statement is circulated in the campus and an
announcement is displayed at designated locations outlining this policy. The examiners
and invigilators report such matters to the disciplinary committee who will penalise the
students found guilty.

Plagiarism:
Submission of any material not authored by the student for an examination or
assignment is considered plagiarism; In written text, work of others must be properly
acknowledged academically. If found to have been plagiarised, a student is penalised by
failing the assignment; assessment task or the entire course. Please consult your
instructors for plagiarism rules.

43
REGISTRATION

University registration takes place in a number of cycles; pre-registration and

registration immediately prior to the start of a semester. You could access the SIS system
using your student ID and password to access the system and register. Please consult
your advisor before deciding the courses to register. Please follow the program as
planned, to avoid delays and registration issues.

ADVISORS

Immediately after admission, each student is assigned an academic advisor by the

Department. The name appears in your SIS data and please make contact with your
advisor and follow his/her advise on all academic matters. Any issue of registration,
program, courses or academic performance must be communicated to and discussed
with the advisor. A student cannot graduate without the approval of the advisor.

GRIEVANCES

During the university life, a student may encounter issues such as the conduct of
the courses, grading that need and special care and listening to. A student has a right to
file a request for re-correction of grades, if he/she feels that an instructor has penalized
the student, or graded the student unfairly for whatever reasons. In such a situation, a
student can, by paying a fee of 10 BD, request for the revision of the grades at the end of
a semester. The department entertains all such requests and appoints at the end of every
semester a committee to re-examine and propose revisions to the grades if necessary.
Similarly, if a student has been dismissed from the university due to any reason,
he/she is entitled to submit a petition to consider re-admission. Please consult the
registration for such issues.

44
Bachelor of Architecture Program

BECOMING AN ARCHITECT

Becoming an architect is a long and arduous process. The central area of study is
design and to acquire design sensitivity, a student must actively engage in the
experience of architecture. This involves understanding what is happing in the world of
architecture visiting buildings and engaging in intellectual discussions on architecture.
There are plenty of opportunities available such as attending design juries, exhibitions
and many other activities organized by the AIA (S) which is the student body that
promotes informal learning.

THINKING LIKE AN ARCHITECT

The most significant trait of an architect is the ability to think like an architect. This
means to think out of the box, challenge accepted notions and become imaginative and
creative. Other disciplines such as art, drama, music and painting as well as psychology
and sociology help in these endeavours. It is in the hands of the students to search for
opportunities and acquire the skills to learn to think like an architect.

45
The Department of Architecture and Interior Design wishes you a great learning
experience at the University of Bahrain and a memorable University Life in your
journey to become an architect.

46
 Compiled by: Dr. Ranjith Dayaratne
Graphics and Production by: Mrs. Sónia Lamela

47