Architecture 645: Architectural Practice in Canada

Study Guide

Unit 6: The Architect and Sustainable Design

Commentary

Recently, there has been a trend toward new roles for architects beyond the traditional one of building designer, some of which involve sustainable design, facilitation, and project delivery.

The architect must have the skills to integrate the work of various consultants on a building project (CHOP 1.1.1, p. 2). This generalist role positions the architect to research and practice ways to increase sustainability of projects they work on (CHOP 1.1.1, p. 1).

Learning Outcomes

After completing Unit 6, you should be able to

1. Apply the principles of the Integrated Design Process.
2. Identify various building rating systems for sustainable design around the world.
3. Describe LEED™, the Canada Green Building Council and its role in the marketplace.
4. Identify new forms of contractual and working arrangements related to integrated and sustainable design and the architect’s role in these projects.

Required Readings

1. Read the following in CHOP (2009):
   • Chapter 1.1.1, The Role of the Architect
   • Chapter 2.3.4, Pre-design and Appendix A, Green Building Rating Systems

Resources

1. Sustainable design community and building rating systems:
   • LEED
   • BOMA BEST
   • Green Globes
   • Zero Carbon Building Standard
   • Living Building Challenge
   • WELL Building Standard
   • One Planet Living
   • Zero Energy Certification
   • Zero Carbon Certification
   • The original Passive House process
     • Passive House Institute
     • Passive House Canada
   • Living Community Challenge
   • BREEAM

Self-Study Questions

Work through the following self-study questions. Use the Course Discussion Forum to post comments/questions.

1. Identify some of the successes of LEED™ and CaGBC. What are some of the shortcomings?
2. Identify three other building rating systems currently being used and how they are being implemented.
3. What is the architect’s role as the leader of a sustainable project?

Assessment

Complete and submit Assignment 2: The Construction Industry and the Fundamentals of Architectural Practice.