History of Architecture

Understanding the Past, Shaping the Future of Architecture



  • Meet Your Course Lead: Prof. Amrita Ravimohan

    Prof. Amrita Ravimohan - A passionate Architect, Educator, and Design Thinker


    Amrita Ravimohan is an architect and interior designer with over 12 years of professional experience. A graduate of the Kamla Raheja Vidyanidhi Institute of Architecture, she holds a Master's degree in Interior Design from the University of Westminster, London. Her work spans teaching, design, writing, and research.

    Amrita has worked on a wide range of high-end residential interior projects and has also studied trends in the Mumbai real estate market. Her background includes editorial experience with the Indian Architect & Builder magazine and long-term roles in architectural firms and development companies.

    In the classroom, Amrita brings together her design practice, historical understanding, and industry insights. For the History of Architecture course, she encourages students to explore how historical movements and cultural shifts have shaped the built environment  and how this knowledge can inform their future design choices. She believes that understanding the context and evolution of architectural ideas is essential for building meaningful and relevant spaces today.

    Key Takeaways...

    Trace the evolution of architecture — from ancient structures to modern built forms, exploring how architecture reflects shifts in society, culture, materials, and construction technology.
    Understand architecture in context — examining how climate, geography, politics, religion, and social structures have shaped architectural styles across time and regions.
    Analyze buildings and images
    — interpreting design elements, symbols, spatial organization, and historical documentation to understand architectural meaning and function 
    Analyze buildings and images — interpreting design elements, symbols, spatial organization, and historical documentation to understand architectural meaning and function.  
    Develop a critical lens to examine architecture’s role in expressing power, belief systems, governance, and identity through different historical and cultural frameworks.
    Explore key periods and movements — such as Classical Antiquity, Gothic, Renaissance, Modernism, and Postmodernism — and their influence on design philosophy and urban form.

    Frequently Asked Questions


    How is studying online different?

    Studying online offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to learn at your own pace and from any location. However, it requires self-discipline and time management skills. Unlike traditional classrooms, online learning often lacks face-to-face interaction, making it essential to actively engage with digital resources, participate in discussions, and seek help proactively.

    How will watching the videos help?

    Watching the videos provides a visual and auditory learning experience, enhancing understanding of complex concepts through demonstrations, animations, and expert explanations. Videos allow you to pause, rewind, and review material, aiding in better retention and comprehension. They also serve as a primary means of instruction, complementing readings and interactive activities.

    How do I clarify doubts?

    It is vital to note down questions while you access the online content. Every few weeks, there will be a scheduled session where you can clarify your doubts through discussions with your faculty. You may also use the following channels -

    Google Classroom – This is where your assignments will be posted and your faculty will be available to answer queries regarding specific assignments, feedback, etc.

    Email – This is for queries and doubts not related to specific assignments. Please note that your teacher may not be able to respond to the email immediately, so please allow for a day or two. Please mark your Advisor, and Course Lead in cc. in emails you send your faculty.

    Contact Hours – Permanent faculty, including the Course Lead are available in the given contact hours accessible on your app. If any of the above methods don’t work, or if directed by faculty/advisor, please feel free to book a slot on the given contact hours with any of us to resolve the issue.

    It's important to proactively try to resolve your queries yourself first, but also not hesitate to reach out for clarification when needed.


    How do I manage my time?

    Ensure you have seen the videos given in each week, during the course of the week. There will be times when you cannot keep up. So it is best not to delay for no reason, so as not to pile up a backlog. As engaging as we have made the course watching and listening to history can be heavy and too much of it at a time may not be the best course of action. So don’t leave watching the videos to the last day.

    Most importantly, ensure your work is done, doubts ready to ask, assignments submitted before your next class, so that your limited interaction with the faculty can be productive.    

    What technology requirements are needed for this course? 

    Ensure you have a reliable internet connection and a device to access the videos, with clear audio. Preferably do not use your phones, as the videos contain images that need to be carefully seen. Sign up and familiarize yourself with the learning management system.

    How can I access additional resources or support?

    Additional recommended readings, books, videos, podcasts, etc. will be shared with you on the LMS. Utilize these resources to supplement your learning and seek help if you encounter technical or academic issues.

    What should I do if I fall behind? 

    If you fall behind, communicate with your Advisors and faculty immediately to discuss the reasons, remedies, and catch-up plans. Stay proactive in seeking help and adjusting your study plan to get back on track.