Selected topics in the social and cultural basis of design. For current offerings, see departmental website.

The "White City" of Tel Aviv has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional representation of the Modern Movement in architecture, set within a unique cultural context. Founded in 1909 beside the ancient city of Jaffa, Tel Aviv is a striking example of Israel/Palestine's modern urban transformation—one that has dramatically reshaped its landscape over the past 150 years. Modern urbanism was introduced in Israel/Palestine during the late Ottoman Empire, as part of the overall reaction to the Industrial Revolution and mass urbanization in the second half of the 19th century. This evolution continued under British colonial rule, which, among many innovations, introduced the principles of modern urban planning. The planners of the State of Israel, established in 1948, eagerly aimed to shape it according to the highest modernist ideals of the 1950s. The resulting modernist landscape, which often incorporates ancient roots that had to be identified, negotiated, and finally integrated into the urban fabric, ultimately reflects the complex political, social, and cultural dynamics of Israel/Palestine. In this course, we will explore the cities of Israel/Palestine as spatial laboratories that reflect the evolving relationship between society and space in modern times. We will examine how development intersects with tradition, as well as the contrasting influences of East and West, by engaging with a variety of modernisms and urbanisms: Palestinian, Ottoman, British, and Israeli. Content, objectives, assessment, intended audience: In this course, we will explore local issues in modern urbanism by engaging with a wide range of primary and secondary sources—maps, plans, photographs, texts, and films—produced in Israel/Palestine over the past 150 years. We will investigate how modernizing regimes approached historical landscapes and defined antiquities, tracing the rise of local modernism through the development of new and renewing cities. Additionally, we will examine British urban trends, such as the concept of garden cities, and the influence of European architects and urban planners in the 1930s, particularly the adoption of the International Style in architecture. We will also explore how the modern State of Israel addressed the challenges of mass migration through the establishment of numerous New Towns and large-scale master plans. Finally, we will examine contemporary concepts of urban renewal and conservation. This course is designed for students in architecture, urban design, planning, and development studies, as well as those studying geography, history, sociology, anthropology, and political science. It is highly relevant for students in Israel Studies, Middle Eastern Studies, and European Studies. The class format will include lectures, discussions, case studies, and hands-on, collaborative analysis of various texts, visuals, and short films. The written assignment will integrate theory, research, and spatial analysis. Course grades will be based on attendance and participation (20%), a site analysis paper (40%), and a final exam (40%).

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