Skip to main content

DSNI 322

DSNI 322: Building Systems & Codes

Prerequisite: DSN223, DSNI205; 2.5 in-major GPA; passing Portfolio Review Assessment; Junior Standing; or permission of instructor

Credit Hours: (3)

The purpose of this 3-credit lecture course is for students to become familiar with interior construction methods, building systems, and applicable codes.


Detailed Description of Content of Course

In this course, students will gain an understanding that design solutions affect and are impacted by structural systems and methods, non-structural systems including ceilings, flooring and interior walls, distribution systems including power, mechanical, HVAC, data/voice, telecommunications and plumbing, energy, security and building control systems, and vertical circulation systems. Students will also gain an understanding of the principles of natural and artificial lighting design, acoustical design, thermal design, and indoor air quality. This class also provides:

Learning experiences that engage students in interaction with multiple disciplines representing a variety of points of view and perspectives. (5d)


Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

The primary mode of instruction will consist of lecture, readings, and in-class discussion. Guest lectures, writing activities, and group learning/discussion and projects will also occur. Specifically, the students will be aware of the principles of lighting, acoustics, thermal comfort, and indoor air quality to enhance the health, safety, welfare and performance of building occupants. Students will have knowledge of interior construction and building systems.


Goals and Objectives of the Course

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will demonstrate:

1. An understanding of the principles of natural and artificial lighting design and the ability to competently select and apply luminaries and light sources. (12a, 12b)
2. An understanding of the interaction of light and color and the impact they have on one another and interior environments. (10b)
3. An understanding of the principles of acoustical design and the appropriate strategies for acoustical control. (12c, 12d)
4. An understanding of the principles thermal design and how thermal systems impact interior design solutions. (12e, 12f)
5. An understanding of the principles indoor air quality and how this is affected by the selection and application of products and systems impact on indoor air quality. (12g, 12h)
6. An understanding that design solutions affect and are impacted by structural systems and methods, non-structural systems, distribution systems, energy, security and building control systems, and vertical circulation systems. (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d, 13f)
7. The ability to read and interpret construction drawings and documents. (13g)
8. An awareness of sustainability guidelines and industry-specific regulations. (14a, 14b)
9. An understanding of laws, codes, standards and guidelines that impact fire and life safety including compartmentalization, egress, detection, and suppression. (14c, 14d, 14e, 14f)
10. The ability to select and apply appropriate federal state/provincial and local codes. (14g)
11. Student work demonstrates understanding that design solutions affect and are impacted by the interface of furniture with distribution and construction systems. (13e)


Assessment Measures

Knowledge of lecture material may be assessed through quizzes, exams, exercises, and projects.


Other Course Information

Readings relevant to the course, guest lecturers.


Review and Approval

01/2011