top of page

Building Technology 1 - BLD61403

This module exposed us to a more extensive study of building construction by investigating the latest and more advanced technology and practice of the industry; from site analysis to all the advanced construction systems, energy efficiency, waste management, embodied energy as well as the latest construction methods. In addition, it also allowed the study of construction through case studies of existing buildings and aided us in applying these construction methods and systems into our own design while addressing the issues pertaining to its ecological impact.

Project 1: Industrialized Building System

For this group project, we were to perform a study on a building - preferably an apartment, which was constructed fully or partially using the IBS method and identify all the IBS components used including appropriate sizes, etc. Once this task was complete, we were required to construct the IBS components individually and then join them in the correct order of the construction sequence to build a sectional model of either 1 or 2 units per floor of the building. In addition to this, we were also required to calculate the IBS score of the components and embodied energy of all the materials used in the building. The model scaled 1: 40 was to accompanied with a video inclusive of an introduction to IBS, the model making process along with detailed drawings of the connections of the components and the calculations of the IBS score and embodied energy.

Final sectional model 
Scale 1:40
Final video

Reflecting back…

This project was an introduction to the IBS system of construction and gave us a thorough insight into its construction process. I also have a better understanding of how the connection between the structural components of this system are joined together. In addition to this, the project provided a better awareness of the use of appropriate building materials in construction and allowed me to understand the issues pertaining to energy efficiency and the ecological impact buildings can have on the environment.

Project 2: Construction Solutions (Integration with Design Studio 5)

This project was in connection with our final Studio Design Project this semester and was to aid us in the technical studies and development of our design of the Community Library. It deals with the analysis and establishment of the structural and the envelope systems of our design to ensure that the design has logical and workable construction systems. It also encouraged us to think of construction as an integral part of the design process.

​

The project was divided into two parts:

Part A: We were required to conduct precedent studies of recent, complex or unique construction systems that could be applied in the design which included the floor and structural system, 2 façade systems and the roof system.

Thereafter, using the similar systems as the ones in the precedent studies, we were to produce 2 alternatives of façade design schemes for our studio design project. Each scheme needed to include only the front and the rear façades scaled 1:100.

​

Part B: This was intended to develop practical construction solutions and detailing for our own design through the production of sectional perspective drawings of spaces. We were required to produce detail sectional perspective drawings scaled 1:40 of 2 spaces in our design; which consisted of a space on the ground floor and a space on the top floor.

Final compilation of Project 2

Reflecting back…

This project allowed to me to analyze and document interesting methods of construction as well as explore modern materials in the design of the façade system of my design project. At the completion of this project I am better equipped to understand issues pertaining to various construction principles, materials, techniques, codes of practice process of assembly and detailing.

bottom of page