Full Time Studies - Building
Technology
Program
Overview
Program Details
Student
Work
Instructors
Program Description
Architectural History
This survey course will enable students to understand various styles - from classic to modern - which affects the way we design our buildings today.
Construction Theory I, II & III
Technical systems play a primary and defining role in architectural design at the conceptual stage. The students will be introduced to structural forces, building loads, types of skeletal systems, foundations and building envelope technology. The course will also cover specifications, environmental issues, mechanical and electrical systems, codes and by-laws.
Computer Aided Design I, II & III
PDA prides itself on using Macintosh computers and the latest Macintosh operating system in all of our lab environments. All CADD work is done using the industry standard cross platform drafting program Vectorworks software. Students prepare a number of design plans while learning the VectorWorks software applications. They start with the study of spatial design, studying room layouts and traffic patterns. Designs developed will include site and floor plans and elevations. Later they develop construction documents for residential and commercial buildings incorporating construction details and building sections along with schedules and legends.
3D Modeling I, II & III
Explore the three-dimensional environment of the VectorWorks program. Students develop 3D models while learning the basics of object creation, lighting, textures and rendering modes. These techniques are incorporated into presentation renderings of residential homes and commercial projects.
Drafting & Drawing I & II, Residential and Commercial
Learn to use hand drafting tools and instruments; develop skill with line weight and lettering; understand architectural symbols and the use of metric and imperial scales. Develop the fundamentals of drafting, i.e., site plan, floor plans, elevations, sections and incorporate construction details into a set of drawings.
Drawing and Rendering The ability to present ideas clearly to a client is extremely important. Students are introduced to the methods and techniques of composing presentation drawings for interior and exterior spaces. Using one and two point perspective, the drawing will be rendered using highlight and shadow technique.
Model Building
Design and construction considerations become more apparent when physical scale models are created. A model expresses visually the relationship between the elements of a building, the floor plan and the site. Students will construct several models using various materials.
Project Management
Students will examine contract administration. They will investigate time lines, scheduling of trades and consider the tendering process.
Building Code (Section 3 & 9)
Building codes set standards for which all buildings within a given jurisdiction must be designed. Students learn to understand and apply code requirements. They will familiarize themselves with accessibility, fire protection and occupant safety in housing and small buildings.
Estimating & Take-Off
Learn to estimate building costs and learn the basic "per square foot" method, as well as an accurate material supply count. Consideration is given to current market prices and the cost advantages/disadvantages of various building and finishing materials.
Portfolio Preparation
Your ability to market yourself will greatly enhance your success in your profession. A good portfolio is an essential tool in today's marketplace. Using 11x17 format students will organize and re-touch their work for inclusion in their portfolio. Resume writing will be covered.
Supervised Lab Time
Supervised computer lab time is made available for students throughout the term to work on school assignments outside of instructional time.
Program
Overview
Program Details
Student
Work
InstructorsProgram Description
Architectural History
This survey course will enable students to understand various styles - from classic to modern - which affects the way we design our buildings today.
Construction Theory I, II & III
Technical systems play a primary and defining role in architectural design at the conceptual stage. The students will be introduced to structural forces, building loads, types of skeletal systems, foundations and building envelope technology. The course will also cover specifications, environmental issues, mechanical and electrical systems, codes and by-laws.
Computer Aided Design I, II & III
PDA prides itself on using Macintosh computers and the latest Macintosh operating system in all of our lab environments. All CADD work is done using the industry standard cross platform drafting program Vectorworks software. Students prepare a number of design plans while learning the VectorWorks software applications. They start with the study of spatial design, studying room layouts and traffic patterns. Designs developed will include site and floor plans and elevations. Later they develop construction documents for residential and commercial buildings incorporating construction details and building sections along with schedules and legends.
3D Modeling I, II & III
Explore the three-dimensional environment of the VectorWorks program. Students develop 3D models while learning the basics of object creation, lighting, textures and rendering modes. These techniques are incorporated into presentation renderings of residential homes and commercial projects.
Drafting & Drawing I & II, Residential and Commercial
Learn to use hand drafting tools and instruments; develop skill with line weight and lettering; understand architectural symbols and the use of metric and imperial scales. Develop the fundamentals of drafting, i.e., site plan, floor plans, elevations, sections and incorporate construction details into a set of drawings.
Drawing and Rendering The ability to present ideas clearly to a client is extremely important. Students are introduced to the methods and techniques of composing presentation drawings for interior and exterior spaces. Using one and two point perspective, the drawing will be rendered using highlight and shadow technique.
Model Building
Design and construction considerations become more apparent when physical scale models are created. A model expresses visually the relationship between the elements of a building, the floor plan and the site. Students will construct several models using various materials.
Project Management
Students will examine contract administration. They will investigate time lines, scheduling of trades and consider the tendering process.
Building Code (Section 3 & 9)
Building codes set standards for which all buildings within a given jurisdiction must be designed. Students learn to understand and apply code requirements. They will familiarize themselves with accessibility, fire protection and occupant safety in housing and small buildings.
Estimating & Take-Off
Learn to estimate building costs and learn the basic "per square foot" method, as well as an accurate material supply count. Consideration is given to current market prices and the cost advantages/disadvantages of various building and finishing materials.
Portfolio Preparation
Your ability to market yourself will greatly enhance your success in your profession. A good portfolio is an essential tool in today's marketplace. Using 11x17 format students will organize and re-touch their work for inclusion in their portfolio. Resume writing will be covered.
Supervised Lab Time
Supervised computer lab time is made available for students throughout the term to work on school assignments outside of instructional time.
