Simulating Design Integration in an Architecture Studio Setting
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Date
2019
Authors
Collins, Tom
Grondzik, Walter T.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
Design integration brings discrete elements of the design together early and often to optimize
performance outcomes, achieve greater efficiencies, and identify synergies. In practice, design integration
often involves getting consultants, clients, and construction managers into the same room to inform and
strengthen decision-making. As such, integrated design is the emerging gold standard of building design
delivery and an approach that NAAB now requires accredited architecture programs to incorporate into
curricula. However, architecture programs, as silos within their institutions, typically do not have ready
access to diverse stakeholders and team members with specialized disciplinary expertise as seen in
practice. Thus, the problem facing many architecture programs is how to simulate a “real-life” integrated
design process in ways that prepare students for professional careers; require them to consider technical
and practical considerations; and expose them to the benefits of holistic, integrated design outcomes. The
US Department of Energy’s Solar Decathlon (SD) Design Challenge (formerly Race to Zero) provides a
useful framework for encouraging and supporting architecture, engineering, and construction
management students in developing design teams that engage: industry experts for feedback, community
partners as clients, and students across departments. This paper describes the challenges associated with
simulating integrated design in an architecture studio setting; the beneficial role that the SD Design
Challenge plays in establishing a clear framework with specific design and performance criteria to guide
students; and the experiences over a three-year period of a graduate-level comprehensive design studio
with supporting technical electives in using the competition to encourage integrated design solutions.
Description
12 pages