Back to: Construction Technology
TERM PROJECT (team work):
– to strengthen your understanding of the interrelationship between a building’s design, and its materials
and methods of construction
– to develop your sensitivity and understanding of sustainable design
– to strengthen your research ability
– to strengthen your collaborative skills
– to strengthen your presentation skills
Feb. 26 Structural Analysis and definition of area to be built as (3-D) model
Each group must present a basic structural analysis of their term project in 3-D representation or sketch
model. Sketches (of wall sections) should complement the presentation, relating material to conceptual
qualities. Pictures and an overall drawing set (plans, sections elevations) of the project should be used as an
introduction.
An axonometric/perspectival drawing of the intended model to be build during the semester should conclude
the presentation. Also: Present Research and Bibliography of additional sources
Mar. 12 Foundation Assignment
Physical model, 1”=1’-0” or 1-1-2”=1’-0”; from footing, caisson, etc. including foundation wall, to sill plates.
Must include moisture protection, insulation, etc. Complementing 3-D and 2-D representations are required;
Details of transition: from ground to structure; from foundation wall to above-ground structure
Mar. 19 Superstructure Assignment
Physical model, 1”=1’-0” or 1-1-2”=1’-0”; from foundation wall connection to full vertical height at a significant
corner of the building; Complementing 3-D and 2-D representations (wall sections) are required;
Details of transition: from vertical structure to roof; openings in framework
Apr. 9 Facade Assignment
Physical model, 1”=1’-0” or 1-1-2”=1’-0”; relationship between structure + skin ; Both 3-D and 2-D
representations (wall sections and complimentary elevations) are required;
Details of transition: from vertical structure to roof; window and door openings
Apr. 30 Roof Assignment
Physical model, 1”=1’-0” or 1-1-2”=1’-0”; from top of support structure/frame wall. Complete roof structure
framing with layers to show build up of materials to finished roof. Complementing 3-D and 2-D representations
(wall sections) are required
May 21 Completed Term Projects, Wall sections & final report due
(t.b.d.) All significant drawings must be assembled as one compiled digital presentation; add and edit
drawings to create consistency; Final Presentation Date: t.b.d.
ANALYSIS: As part of the final presentation you are to write a report-analysis, which will be added to the
digital presentation and final submission, including:
Title page with names of students; name of project, location, architect; structural system and primary
materials,description of design concept, parti, intent; wall sections, 1 ½“ = 1’-0”, labeled, dimensioned,
centerline references; details, 3” = 1’-0”; sketches; factors that address sustainability, pictures of the project,
related to drawn content
Questions to be addressed in your report-analysis are:
Why was this particular location and orientation selected? Why was this building system selected? What could
have been an alternative option? Why were these particular materials selected? Did the designer make
appropriate, creative and sustainable use of materials and construction systems? How so? What did you learn,
or discover from your research? What did you learn by constructing the model? What did you learn through
your analysis? What did you learn about collaborative teamwork? In what ways has this research influenced
your work in the design studio? What specific questions has this research project raised?