COURSE OVERVIEW
Integrated Building Systems III (IBS III) is the third in the series of three courses which examines approaches to building design and systems integration via the design and detailing of a small infill structural concrete building, including basic engineering of the structural system and the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems. In IBS III students synthesize a wide range of variables that contribute to an integrated design solution.
While the prerequisite course IBS II considers the technical aspects of significant completed works of architecture through the analysis, “reading” and making of construction drawings, IBS III focuses on the ability to apply that knowledge to the design of an infill building, including passive design, material selections, construction assemblies, structural systems and MEP systems.
It is not uncommon in contemporary practice for a medium-sized project to have a dozen consultants in addition to the architect. It is the architect’s responsibility to assure design integrity across disciplines, manage these consultants and integrate their work into digital models and workflows in order to produce a set of coordinated drawings. These disciplines might include structure, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, environmental (LEED), civil, geotechnical, landscape, audiovisual, IT, acoustic, lighting, façade & waterproofing plus any number of additional specialty consultants. Having a general knowledge of how these disciplines interface with architecture is essential to high-quality design.
The course extends a conceptual and practical understanding of how building details and performance requirements are developed as an integral part of an overall design concept through application. The working premise of the course is that the technical aspects of drawing, modeling, organizing and integrating building systems within a set of contract documents are essential to achieving high quality design and effective building processes in professional practice.