The ICAA Intensive in Classical Architecture: Newport

60 AIA CES Learning Units|Elective and 4 AIA CES Learning Units|HSW | 64 credits towards the Certificate in Classical Architecture (covers all Core Curriculum subject areas)

Image: Old Colony House, Newport, Rhode Island by Kenneth C. Zirkel via Wikimedia Commons | cropped and recolored from original | CC BY-SA 4.0

The ICAA New England Chapter, in collaboration with the ICAA National Office, is pleased to host a Regional Intensive this fall in Newport, Rhode Island. Thank you to the ICAA New England Chapter for their generous support of this program.

The Intensive is an eight-day immersion in the ICAA’s core curriculum. The program is designed for professionals and students with limited time who seek a methodical introduction to the language of classical architecture. Participants learn how to draw, identify, and compose with the classical elements to form an understanding of the basic tenets on which the classical tradition is founded.

Topics include: The classical elements and composition, proportion, architectural representation through drawing and rendering, the study of precedent, and the literature of classical architecture.

The week culminates in a studio project in which students use the classical canon in the design of a small building. Students are guided through a design process rooted in the Beaux-Arts system in which an initial parti is developed during an esquisse and a charrette into a finished design proposal. The program concludes with a review by an esteemed panel of architects.

The Intensive program satisfies the core subject requirements for the ICAA's Certificate in Classical Architecture.

Please note that in addition to the programming offered October 19 - 26, there will be an optional Hand Drafting session held on Friday, October 18. If you are interested in attending, please email [email protected] when you sign up for the Intensive program.

Schedule

The Newport Intensive program schedule will be available closer to October. As a reference for what to expect, you can view the schedule from the 2024 New York Intensive program here; please note that the Intensive schedule changes with every iteration and therefore the instructors, topics, and time allotted for each content area are subject to change for this version.

Accommodation Options

The ICAA has secured a special group rate at The Jailhouse Inn, which is very close to the Colony House and the rest of the downtown area. If you have signed up for the program and would like to take advantage of the group rate, please email us at [email protected].

Learning Objectives

Gain practice in the classical language by designing plans, sections, and elevations using hand drafting skills.
Gain an introduction to the Beaux-Arts method of design—a process that may be applied to all aspects and scales of design work.
Design a final project incorporating a columnar type, integrating the design skills learned.
Understand various drawing techniques including design sketches, hand-drafted drawings, architectural watercolor rendering, and simple presentation techniques appropriate to a short design program.

Please click here for information specific to the Proportion portion of the program:

Intensive in Classical Architecture: Proportion (4 AIA CES Learning Units|HSW): As part of the Intensive program, participants will study the theory and practice of proportion, as well as the history of classical architecture. Proportion in the classical arts refers to the use of number and geometry as design tools. The theory of proportion content of the course provides an overview of the concept and application of proportion in traditional architecture. The subject is approached from a Pythagorean and Platonic direction, including: an introduction to ancient numerical philosophy; an explanation of the concept of symbolic or qualitative number; the relation of number to beauty; the derivation of the ancient musical octave; the Golden Section, its mathematics, geometry, and particularly its role as geometrical "logos"; and the connection of these ideas to the numerical-geometrical canons of classical architecture. Historical methods of applying proportion to architectural composition, including geometrical construction, addition of arithmetical units and the use of harmonic ratios, are illustrated and demonstrated to create archetypal buildings.

Understand the use of rational ratios made of whole numbers, and transcendental ratios such as the Golden Section which are not made of whole numbers in architectural composition; explore how these ratios are used in building design and their importance in creating an aesthetic design which promotes mental welfare.
Use proportional methods for analysis of historical design examples, and study the history and theory of classical design.
Understand number in a symbolic rather than mathematical sense and how this connects to aesthetics and aspects of ancient philosophy; explore the neurological benefits of these aesthetic and philosophical principles, and connect these aspects of numbers directly to building and site design.
Use geometric, arithmetic and harmonic methods of application of proportion—based on both traditional use and contemporary neuroscientific research—for architectural composition, understanding how their application can be used to create structures which elicit positive emotional responses from building users.

AIA Continuing Education Provider Information

Please click here to view AIA Continuing Education Provider information:

Instructional Delivery Method: Live In-Person Learning Program

Program Level: Introductory

AIA CES Program Approval Expiration Date: February 9, 2026

Provider Number: G193

Provider Statement: The Institute of Classical Architecture & Art is a registered provider of AIA-approved continuing education under Provider Number G193. All registered AIA CES Providers must comply with the AIA Standards for Continuing Education Programs. Any questions or concerns about this provider or this learning program may be sent to AIA CES ([email protected] or (800) AIA 3837, Option 3).

This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product.

AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.

Go back

October 19 - 26, 2024

The Newport Colony House

Overview Tuition Scholarships Photos FAQ

Add to Calendar

Tuition

ICAA Members

$2,150

Non-Members

$2,250

Students & Faculty Members (with valid student/faculty ID)

$1,350

October 19 - 26, 2024

The Newport Colony House

Add to Calendar

Scholarships

The ICAA offers a limited amount of scholarships for students, emerging professionals, and professionals.

Each scholarship is merit based and is assessed on a case-by-case basis. If you require a scholarship, please submit the following to [email protected]:

Completed Scholarship Application Form
A brief personal statement describing your interest in the program and how the program will support your academic and professional goals
Examples of your work: suggested 3-4 images submitted as PDFs
Resumé or Curriculum Vitae
Letter of Recommendation
Brief Biography (no more than one or two paragraphs)

Scholarship applications are due Monday, July 15, 2024. Please email [email protected] or call 212-730-9646 x112 with questions about scholarship applications.

In addition to the scholarships offered by the ICAA National Office, special scholarships are available through the ICAA Chicago-Midwest Chapter, the ICAA Southern California Chapter, and the ICAA Texas Chapter for students and emerging professionals within each respective Chapter's region.

ICAA Chicago-Midwest Chapter Scholarship: Applications should be sent to [email protected]; please indicate on your application form that you currently reside or attend school in the Chicago-Midwest Chapter. Questions regarding this scholarship opportunity may be sent to Julie Hayes at [email protected].

ICAA Southern California Chapter Scholarship: Applications and questions regarding this scholarship opportunity may be sent to Sonya Adams at [email protected].

ICAA Texas Chapter Scholarship: Questions regarding this scholarship opportunity may be sent to Mary Peyton Burgher at [email protected].

Student Work from Past Intensives

FAQ

How many participants do you accept?

We accept a maximum of 25 students.

Am I required to purchase my own materials?

Yes, a materials list will be provided a month in advance of the program.

Would I be able to sign up to attend only part of the program at a reduced rate?

No. Programs are designed to introduce a broad range of skills and experiences which is only possible through full participation.

Are international students and professionals accepted into ICAA programs?

The ICAA welcomes students and professionals from across the world, and international scholarship applications are encouraged. In advance of applying, please note that the ICAA cannot provide any paperwork or assistance with visa applications.

Are there any recommended accommodation options for those traveling to attend the program?

Please email [email protected] for more information on accommodation options close to the program.

What is the ICAA's policy on cancellations?

You may refer to the ICAA's cancellation policy by clicking [here].