NCARB Competency Standard #8: Coordinate the integration of building systems into a project design.

Buildings, like humans, need air, water, and energy, and to eliminate waste, to function properly. Knowing how to integrate building systems into a project design is a fundamental competency for architects to make sure buildings can properly function.

The two competencies architects need to support this are understanding what the system are and how to integrate them, and to be able to identify conflicts between the designs of these systems.

NCARB Competency Standard #8: Coordinate the integration of building systems into a project design.

At the point of initial licensure, architects with this competency can …

• Understand and integrate appropriate building and engineering systems utilizing project consultants and specialists (e.g., acoustic, structural, civil, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, etc.).

• Coordinate selected systems into the building design and identify and resolve conflicts.

You had an opportunity to learn about building systems in architecture school, now is the time to apply your knowledge to real world buildings.

What can you do right now?

Start by studying the engineers’ drawings: the structural, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, fire sprinklers, even specialized things like elevators and acoustic systems.

Next start comparing the engineers’ drawings to the architectural drawings and to each other. The key task—look for the conflicts between drawings and the things the engineers forgot.

• Does the electrical lighting plan match the architectural reflected ceiling plan?

• Does the mechanical duct layout work with or against the structural beams?

• Check the alignment and the placement of structural elements, especially columns.

• Do they match the architectural design?

• Look for the height of beams compared to the height of ducts and the height of ceilings.

The Architect’s role in leading the whole design team includes looking for and identifying these and other mistakes. You might find some omissions or conflicts on the architectural drawings.

Coordinating engineering systems is also guiding consultants to meet deadlines, to deliver high quality work and to include the full scope of work.