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Two architectural models are displayed on a concrete surface. The model on the left is constructed from white materials, featuring stacked rectangular forms with vertical elements. The model on the right is made of wood and cardboard, with a more abstract arrangement of wooden pieces and a simple base. Sunlight creates distinct shadows on the ground, enhancing the appearance of both models.

The Summer Immersion Studio is an introduction to the key ideas and techniques in Architecture and Landscape. Open to students 18+, from current undergraduates to mid-career professionals, the course is suitable for anyone interested in a focused introduction to the discipline. Taught by Faculty from Graduate Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Urban Design, students will emerge with a command of essential skills and a small body of work suitable for use as the foundation for a graduate application portfolio. Students receive individualized, one-to-one technical instruction in drawing, modeling, fabrication workflows, and portfolio development, building both conceptual and technical fluency in preparation for graduate-level study.

The studio is organized around a four-part framework: four weeks, four design exercises, four New York-based site visits, and four architectural techniques.  Each week introduces a new design prompt paired with a specific method of architectural production, while field-based sessions connect studio work to the city’s architectural environments. 

Situated in New York City, the studio extends beyond the classroom by engaging the city itself as a site of learning.  Field-based sessions and site visits encourage students to observe, analyze, and document architecture directly, connecting studio investigations to the spatial, material, and urban conditions of the city.  By working across studio and city, students develop the ability to analyze and interpret architecture at multiple scales, while gaining firsthand exposure to diverse architectural environments that shape contemporary practice.

The course emphasizes iterative making and critical thinking, encouraging students to explore analog and digital media as complementary tools of design thinking.  Lectures and reviews with invited Pratt faculty provide additional academic mentorship and insight into graduate-level expectations.  The studio culminates in a design exhibition and a carefully curated, individually developed portfolio that documents each student’s work, preparing students for applications to graduate architecture programs.

Summer housing at Pratt Brooklyn is available to SCPS Summer Intensive students (credit or noncredit) for an additional fee and is arranged through Pratt’s Residential Life and Housing Office (RLH). Before applying for housing at Pratt Brooklyn, you must first register for the course(s) of your choice. If you are interested in on-campus housing at the Brooklyn campus, please contact SCPS-NonCredit@pratt.edu, and we will connect you with Pratt’s Residential Life and Housing Office.

A close-up view of a series of large, white, padded sections, possibly made of a soft material. The sections are arranged in a stacked formation, with creases and folds indicating their softness. The bottom edge is slightly curved, revealing a contrasting dark or textured surface beneath. The background appears blurred, suggesting an indoor setting.
A sculptural arrangement of several stacked, rectangular wooden blocks, varying in height and positioned at different angles. The wood has a natural finish with visible grain patterns and small imperfections. The blocks are mounted on a flat surface, contrasting against a dark background. The overall composition creates a dynamic visual effect.
A person is adjusting a light near a glass enclosure filled with rocks and moss. The enclosure is supported by a metallic frame, and the light source casts a warm glow, illuminating the natural elements inside. The background appears to have a textured wall, accentuating the artistic setup.
A pair of feet wearing white socks and sneakers supports a model of a white building. The building model is elevated above the feet, with a minimalistic design, featuring various geometric shapes and flat surfaces. The background is a plain white wall.
A wooden table with four legs supports a sculptural model composed of several geometric shapes representing buildings. The structures, featuring various textures and colors, appear to be precariously balanced. The background includes a concrete wall and part of a staircase, creating a minimalistic studio environment.
A collection of architectural models is displayed on a concrete ledge. The models vary in material and form, with some made of smooth, white fabric and others featuring textured, earthy-toned elements that resemble clay or terracotta. The setting is dimly lit, which accentuates the textures and shapes of the models, creating an artistic and experimental atmosphere.

Faculty Highlight

  1. Hart Marlow

    Interim Assistant Chairperson of GALAUD; Adjunct Associate Professor – CCE; SCPS Lecturer

  2. Brook Boughton

    Visiting Assistant Professor; SCPS Lecturer

  3. Olivia Vien

    Adjunct Assistant Professor; SCPS Lecturer; K-12 Center Instructor