Architecture for intermediate users

Space planning, building elements, and accessible and sustainable design.

3 lessons · about 0.9 hours · free

Designing buildings

1. 1. Space planning and circulation

   Space planning turns a list of rooms into a layout that works. Learn to size rooms from how they’re used, arrange them by relationships, and keep circulation efficient.

   • • Turn a brief into an area schedule
   • • Use adjacency diagrams and zoning
   • • Size rooms from furniture and activity

   18 min

2. 2. Building elements: structure, envelope and services

   Every building is structure, envelope and services. Understanding how they work — and fit together — lets you design things that can actually be built.

   • • Describe common structural systems
   • • Explain what the building envelope must do
   • • Know the main building services

   20 min

3. 3. Accessible and sustainable design

   Buildings should work for everyone and use resources wisely. Learn the principles of universal design and sustainable design that apply to every project.

   • • Apply universal design principles
   • • Know key accessibility features
   • • Reduce operational energy and water use

   18 min