From Wood to Charcoal: First-Year Students' Material Transformations

First-year students entering the University of Virginia’s School of Architecture face a whirlwind of new experiences and emotions. Along with the excitement of starting their architectural journey comes the challenge of adjusting to new routines, environments, and expectations. Recognizing this transition, instructors Sasson Rafailov and Isaac Alejandro Mangual-Martínez, who are new to leading the course, have designed ARCH 1020—Lessons in Making: Thinking Through Materials to be more than just an introductory class. They’ve crafted a fun and engaging learning experience that connects students to core design principles while fostering a strong sense of community. 

The course, developed over 20 years ago by artist and Professor Sanda Iliescu, who typically teaches the class but is currently on sabbatical, delves into what she calls “the delights and dilemmas of making physical objects.” Rafailov and Mangual-Martínez have brought their own innovative spin to the class, ensuring it remains a dynamic and welcoming environment for first-year students.
 

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ARCH 1020 introduces students to architectural design, drawing, model making, and material ethics through a series of hands-on exercises, workshops, and lectures. But beyond the technical skills, the course invites students to see the world in new ways and encourages them to build relationships with their peers and the environment around them. 

One recent example of Rafailov and Mangual-Martínez's creative pedagogical approach is the Material Sourcing Assignment, a project that allows students to explore the process of gathering natural materials as a source for architectural expressions throughout the semester. This year, students were asked to harvest fallen branches from trees around UVA Grounds to create charcoal for drawing sticks, giving them a hands-on lesson in material ethics and sustainability. "Rather than buying charcoal from the store, I learned the steps to actually making it,” said student Michael Tague. “It has made me appreciate my work more.” 
 

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The assignment also fostered deeper connections between students and their environment. Each student took time to observe and appreciate the tree that provided the wood for their charcoal, acknowledging the vital role nature and place play in their creative processes. “The tree you have found is providing you with a chance to express yourself and learn something new,” the instructors reminded, encouraging students to seek out mindful engagement. 

The experience culminated in a charcoal burn on the rooftop terrace of the Drama building, where students gathered to turn their harvested wood into usable charcoal. This communal activity was a source of reflection and bonding. “To be in nature and surrounded by my peers gave me a sense of togetherness,” said student Julia Torgler. “I found myself overwhelmed with an extreme sense of gratitude for the path I chose for my college experience.” 

To conclude the exercise, students presented their charcoal drawings at the very site where they harvested the wood. In a novel twist, the tree itself became their first “guest critic.” Presenting work to the tree provided a stress-free environment, allowing students to practice their presentation skills while reflecting on the ethical harvest. “I wasn’t sure if the wood would actually turn into usable charcoal, but it did, and I’m really excited to start working with it,” remarked student Lizaveta Hrachukha. 
 

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Blending creative play and skill-building with community-focused, reflective learning, ARCH 1020 is a memorable introductory course at the School of Architecture. Rafailov and Mangual-Martínez have created a space where students not only learn the foundational skills of architecture but also gain a deep understanding of their role in creating a more thoughtful, sustainable future. 

This project would not have been possible without the support of a Thrive Grant from the UVA Office of the Provost and Center for Teaching Excellence, and the following people: 

Dick Smith, Facilities Manager, School of Architecture
Jeana Ripple, Associate Professor and Chair, Architecture 
Shawanna Hall, Operations and Production Manager, Drama Department
R. Lee Kennedy, Professor and Chair, Drama  
 
Caitlin McLeod, Associate Professor, Drama  
Britt Grimm, Senior Fire Safety Inspector, UVA  
Gerald Drumheller, Fire Marshall and Training Specialist, UVA