The physical forms of buildings and cities embody complex and multivalent forces. Rooted in the ancient Greek word, theoria (contemplation), architectural theories draw upon ancient histories and contemporary practices to determine principles for action. Through readings, lectures and site visits, this course examines architectural form as a confluence and reconciliation of environmental, socio-economic, material and historical-theoretical forces that inform placemaking and professional identity. This course will unfold in a curated series of lectures by architecture faculty, featuring how each reconciles the forces of architectural form in her/his own research and creative practice.