Prompted by a stray though on the big problems thread, I began wondering what people would treat a s recognized sub-areas of architecture. What I’m trying to propose is a collaboratively edited list, which ought to give us a collective image of how the discipline divides problems. My first quick stab at it is below.

I’m thinking about this problem within the context of starting an architectural equivalent to the Philosophical Gourmet Report – a ranking system designed to help potential students make broad decisions about their interests in architecture and identify schools that would be more likely to foster their specific interests.

Design
Form finding
Parametric/computational modeling
Building typology
Core & Shell
Space Planning
Surface and finishes

Materials assembly/science/engineering
Building systems
Materials science
Structural engineering
CAD/CAM
Mechanical/electrical/plumbing

Historical/theoretical/philosophical problems
Meaning of design
Origins/modernity
Contemporaneity
Historical epochs
Role of Fine Arts

Social problems
Professionalization
contract management
Globalization
Innovation
Cultural sensitivity/use of ethnic motifs
Accessibility

Sustainibility
Effeciency
Natural materials/greenwashing
Ethical dimensions
Cltural/global/scientific significance