[Building Technology & Structures]

Arch 511 | Architectural Technology I

Architectural Technology I and II investigate building materials and systems - including properties, applications, and performance - in consideration of design objectives, environmental conditions, historical context, regulatory controls, and economic constraints. In Arch 511 the principles of building science, construction materials and systems, and the technical issues of design are introduced.

Objectives include: understanding materials and systems of construction, in particular methods used in light wood-frame construction; introducing the principles of building science through wood-frame building envelope systems; examining the responsibilities of the architect in the construction of buildings; and learning the theoretical, analytical, and computational methods necessary to evaluate building systems. Course Instructor: Greg Johnson

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Arch 531 | Architectural Technology II

This course expands on the knowledge gained in Architectural Technology I with more complex building technologies in a variety of climatic conditions. Materials and methods are considered in the context of performance requirements, building regulations, and contract documents. Analytical and computational evaluation methods as well as graphic communication are emphasized.

Objectives include: understanding building materials and systems of larger projects; examining wall cladding and roofing systems for non-residential construction; introducing historical and non-traditional construction methods; learning to select appropriate materials and systems in the context of realistic performance requirements and design considerations; and detailing the building envelope with emphasis on drawings and specifications. Course Instructor: Linda Brock

Arch 512 | Architectural Structures I

This course serves as an introduction to the 'structural problem' through investigation of the relationships between force, geometry, and material, and their effects on structural elements. First principles expand into a consideration of these effects on individual elements into the context of the structure as a system and their relation to the form, safety, and economy of the structural system. Subsequently, development of a quantitative analysis and design of simple structural elements allows a qualitative expansion of the ideas into more complex elements. Coordinated with the material taught in the first design studio, the intent of the course is to allow the student to create a context for the knowledge of and feeling about structures and their role in architecture. The emphasis is mainly on wood structures with some reference to steel and concrete. Course Instructor: Steve Taylor

Arch 532 | Architectural Structures II

Utilizing the basic principles established in Architectural Structures 1, this course expands the agenda from single-span structures into multi-span systems. Quantitative investigation and comparison of wood, steel and concrete elements and structural systems characterize the studies, with emphasis on horizontally spanning elements. Qualitative study of various reinforced and precast concrete framing systems and other structural elements such as walls, columns, foundations etc. Introduction to earthquakes and lateral force resisting systems. Course instructor: Steve Taylor

Arch 533 | Environmental Systems and Controls II

This course examines the mechanical and electrical services of building and their integration with architectural form and fabric. Basic engineering considerations that go into the design of mechanical and electrical systems are studied, offering both conceptual and practical guidance.

The major environmental control systems used in a wide range of building types and sizes are considered, including the equipment layout and operation of heating ventilation and air conditioning, plumbing, power and illumination services. The approach stresses the basic equipment and operation of different systems and their integration with building structure and strategies and other design requirements. Course Instructor: Blair McCarry, Stantec

Arch 571 | Advanced Topics in Building Technology

Pre-requisite: Arch 531 Architectural Technology II, or permission of instructor.

This seminar provides for the exploration of selected technical topics. Areas covered may include the physical function of the building envelope, the relationship between the building envelope and the meaning of the facade, historical consideration of the origins and development of construction materials or the development of new materials and systems.

The intention is to advance the student's understanding of the role of the building envelope in architecture. The format allows the student to pursue personal interests while developing analytical and synthesizing skills. The emphasis will be on relating an understanding of building technology in the context of design, constructability, durability and economics. Course instructor: Linda Brock / Greg Johnson

Arch 572 | Advanced Topics in Architectural Structures

Discussion of current trends, development and methods in structures of buildings, including special types such as suspended and pneumatic systems, space frames, etc. While the detailed programme may vary, the design of a small timber-framed project in a region of heavy snowfall has often served to focus discussion of the relationship between architectural and structural concerns. The objective is, in general, to allow students to pursue specialized structural topics of interest and share their findings with the other students. Course instructor: Steve Taylor