The URBANbuild course at Tulane University offers students the opportunity to build prototype housing responding to community needs in New Orleans.

Established in 2005, URBANbuild is the Tulane School of Architecture and Built Environment's award-winning residential design-build program.

Working in collaboration with faculty and local community partners, URBANbuild students help design and build responsible housing prototypes, based on analysis of New Orleans' existing neighbourhoods and the community's cultural needs.

Students are also tasked with recognising the expectations and abilities of the local region's workforce while striving to build upon and challenge available resources in pursuit of progress and affordability.

In both the design studio and the field, equal attention is given to conceptual contemplation and technical execution.

School: Tulane University, School of Architecture and Built Environment
Course: URBANbuild
Type: undergraduate and postgraduate
Location: New Orleans, USA
Course dates: August 2027 to May 2028
Application deadline: 15 January 2027

Find out more about the course and apply ›

What will I learn during this course?

– Students will develop prototypes for responsible housing in New Orleans
– How to source local and affordable resources
– Develop conceptual and technical design skills

What are the requirements?

– Enrollment in a Tulane NAAB-accredited Bachelor of Architecture degree or Master of Architecture degree

What facilities and resources are available?

– Fabrication technology labs
– Professional assistance team for on-site construction

What career prospects can I expect upon graduating?

The projects are intended to enrich students' development as professional designers and help revitalize New Orleans' rich heritage.

Who teaches this course?

– Byron Mouton, director of URBANbuild

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