Blackness and the Built Environment

Architecture is more than just buildings; it is a reflection of power, history, and the social structures that define our daily lives. This course provides a foundational framework for understanding how Black identity and lived experience shape and are shaped by the built environment. You will develop the critical fluency needed to recognize spatial inequalities and understand the historical forces behind urban development. By examining the intersection of race and design, you will learn to analyze the built environment through a lens of social justice and imagine more inclusive futures. * Understand the fundamental concepts of spatial justice and how they relate to racial identity. * Analyze the historical impact of urban planning and policy on marginalized communities. * Explore architectural theories that center Blackness as a framework for design innovation. * Apply modern principles of inclusive urbanism and community-centered spatial practices. * Evaluate the role of social power and memory in the creation of public spaces. * Practice identifying systemic barriers within contemporary city layouts and housing structures. The course begins with essential terminology and historical context before moving into modern discussions on spatial equity and inclusive design strategies. This text-based program is designed for beginners with no prior architectural experience who are interested in the intersection of social justice and the built environment. Start your exploration of how identity transforms the world around us today.