Credit Points: 15
Study Time: 150 Hours

The outcome of this unit is for you to become familiar with and demonstrate an understanding of the more detailed processes that come together in the construction of a small-scale, "domestic" structure. In addition your knowledge of construction materials and the structural principles that govern them will be developed. The general idea of a building as a series of systems will expand and you will look at how those systems are integrated – you will also consider how your role as a designer of interior spaces is also integrated into those systems. Essential to this process will be the consideration and evaluation of the needs of the user of a space and how those needs will be realised in your design work. As well as the personal, the pragmatic needs of a space will be introduced in the form of sustainable energy sources and technologies.

Outline Syllabus
An indicative guide to the content covered by this unit. 

Construction Technology:

• The development of construction procedures and sequence
• Detail design of foundations, ground floors, external walls and roofs, openings, internal walls, stairs and ramps, materials and finishes and mechanical and electrical services
• Regulations as they apply to the design of enclosed spaces 
• Conventions of architectural drawing for construction

Structural Technology:

• Vectors and equilibrium, bending moments 
• Review of the evolution of structural form
• Methods of representing structural action (numerical, graphic, modelled)

Environmental Technology:

• Lectures dealing with simple servicing of small scale buildings dealing with autonomous remote situations, including micro generation and renewable energy
• Climate and natural forces that influence architectural design

Method of Delivery
Lectures, demonstrations, studio projects, visits.

Aims

A1 To continue to develop your knowledge of the techniques and processes involved in the construction and structural stability of a simple structure
A2 To develop an understanding of the body of regulations as they apply to basic construction techniques, health and safety and accessible design
A3 To introduce the idea of the sustainable use of resources in the design of small structures
A4 To develop the use of appropriate communication techniques in the illustration of technological and structural principles

Learning Outcomes
On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

LO1 Demonstrate an understanding of the techniques and processes involved in simple building construction and its structural stability
LO2 Demonstrate an understanding of and appreciation for the role that building, health and safety and disability discrimination regulation play in the construction process
LO3 Demonstrate the understanding of the sustainable use of resources in the design of structures.
LO4 Demonstrate effective use of communication methods to illustrate technological responses.

Reference Material

Key
Barry, R. (1999), The Construction of Buildings Vol. 1 & Vol. 2: Blackwell.
Everett, A. (1994), Mitchell’s Building Series – Materials: Longman.
Foster, J.S. (2000), Mitchell’s Building Series – Structure & Fabric 1: Longman.
Francis, D.J. (1989), Introducing Structures: Horwood.
Gauld, B. (1996), Structures for Architects: Longman.
Lance Lavine (2004), Constructing Ideals, Kendall/Hunt.
McDonald, A.J (2001), Structure & Architecture: Butterworth.
Wines, J. (2000), Green Architecture: Taschen, Cologne.

Recommended
Billington. (2007). The Building Regulations : Explained and Illustrated.
Blanc. Stairs, steps and ramps. 1996. Architectural Press.
Onna, E.van. (2003). Material world: innovative structures and finishes for interiors. Basel: Birkhauser Verlag.
Mannes. (1992). Designing staircases. Van Nostrand.
Mitton, M. (2003). Interior design visual presentation: A guide to graphics, models and presentation techniques. Chichester: John Wiley & Sons
Spence. (2000). Constructing staircases, balustrades & landings. Sterling.
Spens. (1995). Staircases.Academy.
Stranks. (2006). Health and Safety Pocketbook.