In modern design, mainly as a result of significant developments in science, technology, and the constantly increasing size of contemporary buildings, the role of structures clearly determines the architecture of buildings. There has also been a separation of roles in the building design process, which generally involves both architects and structural engineers. Modern design requires a mastery of the basic technical disciplines necessary to understand the role and functioning of structures, i.e. theoretical mechanics, building mechanics and strength of materials, comprising what is known as structural theory. Without going into the specifics of the individual disciplines, this subject is usually referred to as structural mechanics at architectural departments. The primary purpose of the subject is to enable understanding of the mechanical response of a structure to loads acting on it. Without basic knowledge of this aspect, architectural designs may appear that either cannot be realized or will be structurally inappropriate.
No architectural vision - neither simple nor the most sophisticated - could be realized if it were not for the knowledge of basic principles of construction, of building technology and of building materials. Familiarity with these issues, as well as knowledge of construction practice learned on site, allows students to undertake the actual design process of specific objects or buildings and to expect that in the future their own original projects will be successfully completed. At the same time each project must have a clear form of architectural and construction drawing, which will present the appropriate technological, structural and material solutions. The main goal of the Construction I, Construction II and Construction Practice courses is to provide the students with the essential knowledge of the above-mentioned fields in the form necessary to realize their designs.
