category I Flashcards

0
Q

A site is located on a steep, undeveloped slope with souther views to the ocean. What are three primary concerns for this location?

A

// grading and foundation type: steep slope will require either extensive grading or a pile foundation system, or both

// utilities access: an undeveloped piece of land will need to connect to existing utilities

// views: preservation of southern view may be desired

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1
Q

Name six topographical conditions to consider when evaluating a site.

A

// grading: is the site flat, hilly, or sloped?

// vehicular access: during & after construction

// utilities access: exiting on site or must be extended

// site features: rock outcroppings, cliffs, forests, etc

// bodies of water: wetlands, lakes, streams, ocean, etc

// views: preserve existing views

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2
Q

How can a site be designed to avoid the ponding of water?

A

// reduce the amount of paving on site or use pervious paving materials

// include proper grading and swales to direct water away from building and to the storm drain system

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3
Q

What is the difference between topological conditions and geological conditions?

A

// topographical conditions occur on the surface of a site, while geological conditions occur under the surface of a site

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4
Q

What effect does a high water table have on site design?

A

// site drainage: dewatering may be necessary as well as storm water runoff management

// foundation type: mat slab floating on upper soil layers or piles extending to bear on stable soil

// waterproofing: foundation and basement walls require proper protection from water damage

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5
Q

What are the similarities and differences between a mat foundation and a pile foundation?

A

// similarities: both used on expansive soil or site with high water table

// differences: mat foundation essentially floats a building on the upper soil layers of the site, pile foundation is penetrated deep into site to reach stable soil

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6
Q

What are three passive design strategies that can be included in a building located in a desert climate?

A

// deserts are known for extreme temperature ranges, both very hot and very cold. passive design strategies can include:

// properly insulating walls and ceiling will help maintin the indoor temperature

// using large overhangs on the southern exposure will allow for ample sunlight in winter and shading in summer

// use of operable windows will allow for natural ventilation and air exchange

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7
Q

Name three design methods for protection against water penetration of the building envelope.

A

// proper slope and drainge of roof reduces the risk of ponding and leakage

// overhangs above doors and windows protect the openings from water infiltration

// a properly designed rain screen envelope minimizes moisture buildup in the exterior envelope (which can lead to mold and deterioration of materials)

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8
Q

You are designing a museum containing artifacts that are light and humidity sensitive. What measures should you take given these conditions?

A

// maximize the use of indirect lighting for the spaces containing artifacts, such as clerestory windows

// use of effective moisture control such as exhaust fans in toilet rooms will minimize indoor humidity as well as utilizing properly designed exterior details to allow materials to breathe

// install special humidification or dehumidication equipment to maintain proper humidity in the gallery spaces

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9
Q

Why should an architect be concerned with wind hazards?

A

// strong winds, much like seismic activity, can damage buildings by introducing lateral forces, particulary on projections such as parapets and overhangs

// these elements must be designed to resist uplift and overturning forces

// wind can also propel objects at buildings during hurricanes and tornadoes, so a building should be designed to withstand impact forces

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10
Q

You are designing an office building near the wetland area and the landscape architect wants to introduce a new plant species. What effect may this have on the wetland area?

A

// non-native plant species can have a negative impact on a wetland by displacing or destroying native species, altering the wetland function or service as well as disrupting the ecosystem

// an architect should take great care to minimize or eliminate construction and disturbance in wetland areas as well as maintain the proper permits for this type of site

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11
Q

Name four federal agencies that may be involved in the approval process for a wetlands project.

A

// u.s. fish & wildlife service

// u.s. army corps of engineers

// u.s. environmental protection agency (EPA)

// national resources conservation service

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12
Q

What are “the big four” permits/approvals that may be required for most wetland or stream projects?

A

// USACE 404 permit: u.s. army corp of engineers

// RWQCB 401 cert. - regional water quality control board

// CDFG streambed alteration agreement: california department of fish and game

// CEQA compliance: california environmental quality act

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13
Q

Describe flora and fauna and describe how your design may be affected by their presence on the site.

A

// flora is plant life such as trees, vegetation, and shrubs

// fauna refers to any animal life present, particularly endangered species

// site design may be affected by needing to designate no disturbance zones, re-planting disturbed areas, minimizing effect on food and water supply, minimizing night site lighting and maintaining wildlife use corridors

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14
Q

Your client has a site located near a wetland in the coastal zone. Which state agencies may be required for approval to design on this site?

A

// department of fish and game

// california environmental protection agency (CAL EPA)

// state water resources control board

// california coastal commission

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15
Q

Define the coastal zone in California according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

A

// the california coastal zone generally extends 1,000 yards inland from mean high tide line

// in significant coastal estuarine habitats and recreational areas extends inland to the first major ridgeline or five miles from the mean high tide line, whichever is less

// in developed urban areas, the boundary is generally less than 1,000 yards

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16
Q

Which state and federal agencies may be involved in the review process for habitats of endangered species?

A

// state agencies: department of fish and game, california environmental protection agency (CAL EPA)

// federal agencies: u.s. fish & wildlife service, u.s. environmental protection agency (EPA)

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17
Q

Which seismic zone in California poses the greatest earthquake hazard?

A

// seismic zone 4

// zone 4 is lcoated nearest to active faults and poses a greater hazard than zone 3

// there are four seismic shaking zones in the u.s., the higher the number the higher the earthquake danger

// all of california lies within two shaking zones, 3 and 4

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18
Q

According to the California Geological Survey, what is a fault and how are they defined on fault zone maps?

A

// a fault is a fracture in the crust of the earth along rocks on one side have moved relative to those on the other side

// an active fault is one that has ruptured in the last 11,000 years

// earthquake fault zones are plotted on topographic maps at a scale of 1 inch equals 2,000 feet and typically average about one-quarter mile wide

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19
Q

Name the three fire zones in California and what factors the severity of each is based on.

A

// the three fire zones in california are based on increasing fire hazard: medium, high, and very high

// these areas, or zones, are based on factors such as fuel (material that can burn), slope and fire weather

// fire burns faster uphill and weather conditions such as high temperatures, winds, or low humidity can cause a fire to grow rapidly

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20
Q

Name five ground effects an earthquake can cause on a site.

A

// ground shaking: causes over 90% of all damage

// landslide: shaking causes soil and rock to slide off slope

// fault rupture: crack forms as ground is offset along the two sides of a fault

// lateral spreading: shaking causes soil to break into blocks and separate

// liquefaction: loose, wet sandy soil causes the foundation to sink

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21
Q

What must occur before a project can be permitted in relation to earthquake fault zones?

A

// before a project can be permitted, cities and counties require a geologic investigation to show the building will not be constructed across active faults

// if an active fault is found, a structure for human occupancy must be set back from the fault, generally 50 feet

// the alquist-priolo act (1972) is intended to prevent construction of buildings used for human occupancy on the surface of active faults

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22
Q

What are the two key elements of the fire hazard severity zone model?

A

// probability of burning + probable fire behavior

// CAL FIRE has developed a model that serves as the basis of zone assignments that is based on factors such as fire history, existing and potential fuel, flame length, blowing embers, terrain, weather and likelihood of buildings igniting

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23
Q

What are three methods to reduce the chance of building loss in a fire?

A

// defensible space: reduce flammable material around homes to keep direct flames and heat away (law requires 100 feet around buildings)

// exterior wildlife exposure protection: construct buildings of fire resistant materials

// green zone: clearing an area of 30 feet immediately surrounding homes, keep roof clear of flammable material, trim tree branches and keep a spark arrester on the chimney

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24
Q

What types of disasters is FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) responsible for?

A

// FEMA has nationwide responsibility for reducing damages from hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, floords, fires, hazardous spills, acts of nature, or terrorism

// FEMA also creates and maintains floor insurance rate maps (FIRMS), which delineate both the special hazard areas and the risk premium zones applicable to the community

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25
Q

What site design measures can an architect use to mitigate flood damage?

A

// locate building pads above 100 year floodplain

// avoid large areas of concrete/hard surface

// use of swales to direct water runoff

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26
Q

Define the three wind exposure categories from most protected to least protected.

A

// determined by “ground surface roughness” that arises from natural and constructed site features

// exposure B: urban & suburban areas, wooded areas, or other terrain with closely space obstructions

// exposure C: open terrain with scattered obstructions with heights less than 30 feet

// exposure D: flat, unobstructed areas & water surfaces not in hurricane prone regions

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27
Q

What building design measures can an architect implement to mitigate damages from a flood?

A

// avoid building in a floor prone area unless the structure is elevated and reinforced

// elevate the furnace, water heater, and electrical panels if susceptible to flooding

// install “check valves” in sewer traps to prevent floodwater from backing up into drains

// seal walls of basement with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage

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28
Q

It is discovered that there are hazardous materials present on a site. What mitigation measures should be followed?

A

// there are two main methods to mitigate hazardous materials:

// removing hazardous material from the site and properly disposing per federal, state, and local guidelines

// encapsulating and permanately sealing the material on the site per federal, state, and local guidelines

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29
Q

What are the acts, laws, and regulations applicable to hazardous material mitigation?

A

// toxic substances control act (federal)

// comprehensive environmental response compensatoin and liability act, also known as superfund (federal)

// federal EPA brownfields program

// california EPA brownfields program

// federal EPA clean air act

// federal EPA clean water act

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30
Q

What are some common materials that may contain VOCs? Name two methods to for controlling their effect on indoor air quality.

A

// off-gassing of VOCs may come from glues and adhesives from carpet, millwork, and hardwood flooring as well as paint

// to mitigate this hazard, the architect should specify low/no VOC products as well as provide adequate passive and mechanical ventilation to continually bring fresh air into the building

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31
Q

A site is located near an industrial center with a high level of air pollution. What are some measures to protect building users from harmful air borne particulates?

A

// off-gassing of VOCs may come from glues and adhesives from carpet, millwork, and hardwood flooring as well as paint

// to mitigate this hazard, the architect should specify low/no VOC products as well as provide adequate passive and mechanical ventilation to continually bring fresh air into the building

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32
Q

A site is located near an industrial center with a high level of air pollution. What are some measures to protect building users from harmful air borne particulates?

A

// install air filter equivalent to MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) 13 or better

// regular maintenance of the building ventilation systems, such as cleaning filters and replacing outdated equipment

// incorporate dehumidication or humidification equipment

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33
Q

What is the difference between carbon monoxide and radon?

A

// carbon monoxide is generated from fires or combustion equipment while radon occurs in the soil as uranium and thorium decay

// mitigation measures - carbon monoxide: vent combustion equipment directly to the outside, install detectors in sleeping rooms & hallways

// mitigation measures - radon: conduct testing, increase under floor and basement ventilation, install a radon sump pump in basement

34
Q

What are the main causes of mold and mildew growth and how can this problem be avoided?

A

// mold and mildew growth occurs most often in wet areas asuch as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and shower rooms

// in order to grow, mold requires an environment with excessive moisture, lack of ventilation, organic compounds to serve as a food source, and warm air temperature

// installing passive ventilation (operable windows) and mechanical ventilation (direct venting to exterior) can help avoid many mold issues

35
Q

You can received conflicting instructions from the project manager and superintendent, both hired by the owner. Whose instructions should you follow?

A

// though both parties are hired by the owner, generally one person has been designated as the authorized representative on the owner’s behalf and so should be the lead contact for information by the architect

// if, however, a dispute arises the owner should be contacted for final direction

36
Q

During schematic design of a preschool, you are approached by a group of parents who request a certain finish material for the playground. How should you respond?

A

// as the architect, it is important to receive input from end users during the design process

// however, an architect should not take direction from an end user but rather forward the request or concern on to the client for review and final decision

37
Q

What are similar design characteristics that would be utilized in the design of a nursing home and an elementary school?

A

// both user groups, the elderly and children, require more security, are sensitive to material finishes, and higher indoor air quality should become a priority

// for the elderly, other concerns include less mobility and increased lighting levels

// for children, other concerns include use of softer surfaecs and accommodating higher levels of activity

38
Q

What are the main concerns stakeholders and community groups may have related to a project’s impact on the surrounding area?

A

// environment: increase in pollution, displacement of animals and plants on site, alteration of water movement on site

// increases in traffic, noise, and density

// inappropriate uses for the neighborhood

39
Q

How does contracting with an individual homeowner differ from a building project with a corporation?

A

// when designing for an individual homeowner, the architect interacts directly with the owner for all project decisions and direction

// a business or corporation generally employs a board of directors, of whom an authorized representative will be designated to act on behalf of the board for all project related matters

40
Q

You have been hired to design a synagogue, however you have no knowledge of the Jewish culture. How can you ensure your design will meet the needs of your client and end users?

A

// hire a cultural consultant or conduct studies of the culture through research, travel, or interviews

// attend an assembly or gathering and conduct interviews, hold design review meetings, and distribute questionnaires with members of the cultural community

41
Q

What is the difference between a citizen’s advisory committee and a neighborhood community organization?

A

// a citizen’s advisory committee is a group of community members appointed by local board or agency to provide input and feedback on project proposals

// neighborhood and community organizations are grassroots groups consisting of active/concerned members of the community

42
Q

How can an architect determine stakeholder expectations and influence project participation?

A

// to determine expectations, an architect should conduct interviews, focus groups, workshops, surveys, and observations

// to influence stakeholders, an architect should create partnerships, keep all parties involved and informed, and have regular milestone meetings

43
Q

Name three design methods to maintain appropriate internal lighting levels.

A

// daylight sensors, artificial lighting is increased or decreased depending on the amount of natural light entering the space

// occupancy sensors: lights turn off when space is not in use

// dimmable controls: occupants have control to increase or decrease lighting levels in individual spaces

44
Q

Name four site related safety design measures and four building related safety design measures and architect can incorporate into a project.

A

// site safety: building lighting at exterior, including entryways and exit doors, site lighting in parking lot, access contraol (keys, cards, etc), security cameras

// building safety: controlled check in area, alarms (fire, smoke, elevator, security), egress (paths clearly marked, emergency evacuation plan), glazing (tempered in stairways, doors)

45
Q

Name three design methods to maintain the proper internal air temperature.

A

// occupancy sensors: HVAC equipment set up to propertly cool or heat a space based on number of occupants

// zoning: “hot area” receive more cooling while wam areas receive less heat

// thermostatic controls: occupants have control over individual spaces

46
Q

How do the acoustical design concerns differ between an office building and an auditorium?

A

// an office building will likely require control of noise between loud and quiet spaces (conference rooms vs. private offices) through the use of separation/isolation, metal furring strips, acoustical tiles, and insulation

// an auditorium will focus more on directing and reflecting sound as well as absorbing it in necessary spaces, such as backstage areas

47
Q

What are four energy efficiency design methods that can be incorporated into a building project?

A

// heating & air conditioning: properly seal ducts, install multiple zones and programmable thermostats, use high efficiency furnace

// water heating: insulate hot water tanks & pipes, use solar hot water system

// lighting: use daylighting, fluorescent or LEDs, install dimmer controls and occupancy sensors

// appliances: select energy star appliances

48
Q

Other than low flow showerheads and toilets, what are other design methods for water conservation?

A

// install a graywater system to reuse irrigation water

// install a rainwater harvesting system to reuse rainfall

// install drought tolerant landscaping to reduce amount of site water used

// drip irrigation or sprinklers on timers and rain sensors to reduce site water used

49
Q

Which of the following adjacencies is the most appropriate for a day space? A - reception, locker rooms, treatment / B - reception, treatment, locker rooms / C - entry, restooms, reception, locker rooms / D - entry, reception, locker rooms, treatment

A

// D: this flow of adjacencies is the most appropriate for this building function as it moves from more public spaces to more private spaces

50
Q

True or false: programming services are part of the scope of architect’s basic services.

A

// false

// programming should not be confused with schematic design, which is included in basic services

// the owner will either provide the architect with a program or hire the architect to perform the programming service as an additional service

51
Q

What five actions can an architect take to utilize resource conservation during project design?

A

// re-use existing material on site

// re-use recyclable materials

// select locally manufactured materials

// use rapidly renewable materials

// use wood products that have been sustainably harvested

52
Q

What factors should an architect consider when developing spatial requirements and adjacencies?

A

// assign priority to spaces to determine most important adjacencies

// consider furniture and special equipment placement

// analyze floor patterns of occupants, vehicular traffic patterns, future needs of building, open space requirements

53
Q

What are three important duties of the architect during administration of programming services?

A

// confirm scope and intent of project with owner

// prepare a schedule for programming services, including milestone dates, services furnished by the architect, and completion of documentation provided by the architect

// submit programming documents to the owner for evaluation and approval

54
Q

How can the architect determine the values, goals, and objectives of the owners and users during the programming phase?

A

// conduct a visioning session to discuss and prioritize values and goals that will impact the project. pare a written evaluation for the owner’s review

// meet with the owner to confirm and finalize the priorities, values, and goals of the project

// identify and evaluate the constraints and opportunities that will have an impact, such as government requirements, finances, access, etc

55
Q

After reviewing and analyzing the project date during programming, what should the architect do next?

A

// identify any major unresolved programming issues

// make recommendations for solutions to the unresolved programming issues to the owner

// prepare and present initial report of finding for owner’s reviews

56
Q

What is included in the architect’s final program document?

A

// executive summary

// value and goal statements

// facts, data analysis, and conclusions

// relationship and flow diagrams

// matrices identifying space allocations, relationships, functions, and sizes

// special requirements and equipment such as HVAC, plumbing, acoustics, furnishings, etc

57
Q

Describe how the architect gathers programming project information and indicate what information is collected.

A

// architect shall compile and review existing project related documentation, such as:

// reports on existing facilities, site surveys, applicable codes, historical documents, and planning standards

// architect shall conduct a walktrhoguh of the existing facilities and/or site with the owner to prepare a space inventory, identify traffic and circulation patterns, and use levels

58
Q

What are three ways the architect can determine the specific space requirements of the project during programming?

A

// identify all required spaces and establish sizes and relationships

// establish space efficiency factors (ratio of net square footage to gross square footage)

// document particular space requirements such as HVAC, plumbing, lighting, acoustical, furnishings, equipment, or security needs

59
Q

What are considered additonal services during the programming phase?

A

// multiple site evaluation

// site suitability and planning

// master planning

// preliminary design and cost estimating

// scheduling and market analysis

// detailed existing facility evaluation

// environmental suitability

// services in support of owner’s other consultants

60
Q

Site evaluation and planning is considered an additional service during programming. What are the architect’s first steps during this process?

A

// prepare a schedule for site evaluation and planning services that identifies milestone dates, services furnished by the architect, and completion of documentation provided by the architect

// submit documents to the owner for evaluation and approval

// assist owner in filing documents required for approval of governing and reviewing authorities

61
Q

Should costs for labor, materials, and equipment be included in the preliminary cost of work estimate from the architect?

A

// no, these costs are considered construction costs and due to market and economic fluctuations, the architect has no control over how these prices shift

// also, according to the standard owner/architect agreement, this is not part of the architect’s basic scope of services

62
Q

What is the importance of including input from user groups during programming?

A

// in order to fully understand any assumption and to verify analysis data, such as space planning, adjacencies, and function, it is important that the architect collect information from end users to make sure the building will function adequately once completed

63
Q

Name five services that could be specifically designated as the architect’s responsibility during site evaluation and planning.

A

// program analysis: area required for building, parking, circulation, open space, etc

// site analysis and selection: existing conditions study, assist owner in slecting site

// cultural factor analysis: research history of the site and analyze impact of development

// environmental studies: determine impact of project on environment

// economic analysis: impact on development

64
Q

What graphic tools can an architect use that help develop the project during programming?

A

// bubble diagrams display inter-relationships of spaces as well as show direct adjacencies

// flow diagrams show necessary adjacencies in order to facilitate the circulation of people, vehicles, good, etc

// diagrams should also display a clear hierarchy of spaces

65
Q

The owner has requested that the architect to develop the program as an additional service. What must the owner provide to the architect?

A

// the following must be provided to the architect in order to develop a thorough program:

// project goals and values

// requirements for the building

// project schedule

// project budget

66
Q

How do local zoning codes affect design during programming?

A

// the local zoning codes will be concerned with the permitted use of the site, minimum area requirements for the building type, height limitations, total lot coverage or FAR (floor area ratio), setback dimensions around the building, and the quantity of off-street parking requirements

67
Q

What kind of programming requirements would need to be considered for the design of a fire station?

A

// needs of the firefighters and staff

// adequate spaces for necessary equipment

// administrative and sleeping facilities

// fire truck bays

68
Q

An owner has chosen to skip the programming phase to save money. How should the architect respond?

A

// unless the owner has a fair amount of previous experience with the project type, programming should not be omitted as it is an important stage to determine project goals and potential solutions

// through the owner may perceive cutting programming as an initial cost savings, the budget may be negatively affected due to potential change orders in the later design and construction phases

69
Q

What issues should the architect consider during programming that will be a concern of the local building department?

A

// even though programming is the initial stage of design, local building department concerns should be taken into account for the following:

// fire department access and egress

// life safety

// building type and occupancy separations

// accessibility for both the site and building

70
Q

Who is responsible for all decisions regarding design during programming?

A

// the owner

// the architect is mainly responsible for collecting design information and presenting the data to the owner for review and decision

71
Q

The architect and owner are in disagreement on which design layout would be most appropriate for a project. Who makes the final decision?

A

// the owner

// the architect mainly provides information and data to support a certain layout or design

// it is ultimately the owner’s decision for which design to choose

72
Q

After performing a site evaluation, the architect finds that the site has restrictions that may limit the scope of the project. How should he/she inform the owner?

A

// it is very important for the architect to communicate this information to the owner in writing to maintain project documentation

// local building and zoning codes will define what is possible on a given piece of land and in order for a project to be approved for construction, these codes must be followed

73
Q

The owner has chosen a site that is long and narrow and asymmetrical in shape. How could this affect the design of the project?

A

// space sizes could be affected if large rooms are required

// building orientation will be important in order to maximize site effciency while still taking advantage of views, sunlight, ventilation, etc

// parking and other site requirements may be affected if there is not enough land remaining outside of the building footprint

74
Q

True or false: the architect is responsible for any owner supplied program information developed by another.

A

// false

// the architect is only responsible for his/her own instruments of service and must rely on the accuracy and completeness of any surveys, tests, analyzed data, etc. provided by the owner

75
Q

What items are typically included on a site survey?

A

// topography grade elevations

// building footprints and building heights

// street locations and adjoining property information

// easements and right of way access

// any existing utilities above and below grade

76
Q

What are the most commonly used methods of cost estimation during programming?

A

// during this early stage of design where systems and materials have no yet been chosen, the following are mostly commonly used for cost estimation:

// cost per unit, such as $10,000 per hospital bed

// cost per square foot, such as $100/sf for a tenant improvement project

// historical data: previous project experience

77
Q

An owner has supplied program information developed by another architect. Should the current architect include review of this information in his/her basic services?

A

// yes

// according to AIA B201 standard form of architect’s services, design and construction contract administration, article 2.2 schematic design services, the architect shall review the program and other information provided by the owner and provide a preliminary evaluation of the owner’s program, schedule, and budget

78
Q

After reviewing owner supplied site surveys and test results, the architect notices a discrepancy in the information. How should he/she respond?

A

// the architect should inform the owner of the discrepancy and request clarification from those resposible for drafting the reports

// the architect is not responsible for information supplied by others, however, the owner should be informed immediately of any conflicts in information

79
Q

Who performs a soil survey and how does this information affect project design?

A

// soil surveys are performed by a geotechnical engineer and are useful to help determine what types of soils exist on the site

// this information has a direct impact on the foundation selection of the project

// if the soils are stable, spread footing may be used

// if the soils are not stable or if a high water table exists on the site, a mat or pile foundation may need to be used

// the soils report will typically recommend the foundation type or types to be used

80
Q

What site conditions would a civil engineer be concerned with?

A

// a civil engineer’s main focus is generally on any site issues outside of the building footprint, though they are concerned in the beginning of exact building placement

// site conditions such as topography, infrastructure, retaining walls, etc. are items a civil engineer would be concerned with and would help the architect to navigate as far as the best design and placement of the building in regards to existing conditions

81
Q

When should the budget for the project as well as the cost estimate be prepared during programming?

A

// the budget should be supplied by the owner at the beginning of the programming phase

// if specifically designated by the owner, the architect supplies a preliminary cost estimate for the project as an additional service

// this would occur once the program is complete

82
Q

What form of communication should an architect engage in with the owner in order to maintain project momentum?

A

// all major decisions, design oriented or otherwise, should be documented in writing and maintained in a project binder/folder for future reference

// during meetings with the owner it is important for the architect to record the minutes of that meeting and to follow up phone conversations with emails to verify information discussed