Architectural technology no81 by Nguyen Hoang

ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGY

Issue 81 January/February 2009 ISSN 1361-326X Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists

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Inside this issue Hong Kong special issue: the historic CIAT visit Code for Sustainable Homes: BRE test results

AT magazine is published by The Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists 397 City Road London EC1V 1NH UK Tel. +44(0)20 7278 2206 Fax. +44(0)20 7837 3194 info@ciat.org.uk www.ciat.org.uk

In this issue 3

News What’s happening within the Institute and the industry

Membership Information for CIAT members

Chief Executive: Francesca Berriman

AGM 2008 The highlights of CIAT’s historic Hong Kong visit

Editor: Hugh Morrison editorial@ciat.org.uk

Surface Design Show A preview of the CIAT supported show

Advertising: Adam Endacott advertising@ciat.org.uk Copy deadline for next edition: 20 February 2009. Short articles from CIAT Regions and Centres accepted until 6 March. Edition published: 6 April.

Learning from the Code Chris Gaze looks at the Code for Sustainable Homes

Codebreakers Paul Hicks ACIAT gives a personal view on the Code

Publications The latest books and software in Architectural Technology

What’s on What’s happening in the industry in the coming months

Advertising deadline for next edition: Orders must be placed by 6 March 2009. Distribution: c.9000 CIAT members plus c.2500 related professionals (Publisher’s statement) The Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) represents over 9000 professionals working and studying in the field of Architectural Technology. CIAT is internationally recognised as the qualifying body for Chartered Architectural Technologists (MCIAT) and professional Architectural Technicians (TCIAT). Printed by: Hastings Printing Company St Leonard’s-on-Sea, East Sussex. Publication of an article or item does not imply that CIAT or any of its staff is in agreement with the views expressed, nor does CIAT or any of its staff accept responsibility for errors or omissions. ©CIAT 2009

Cover The cover shows the Harbour Crossing residential development, Hong Kong, visited by CIAT members. See p. 20 for details.

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This magazine is printed on paper from sustainable managed forests. www.pefc.org

Develop your career with CIAT Specialist Registers Architectural-EPC CIAT and RIBA have an Accreditation Scheme for Newly Constructed Dwellings (entitled Architectural-EPC) to recognise members of CIAT, RIBA, RIAS and RSUA who have significant and relevant experience of domestic energy assessment. This is in line with the requirements for approval of Accreditation Schemes set out by the CLG and the National Occupational Standards developed by Asset Skills. The scheme is open to Chartered Architectural Technologists (MCIAT) in the UK. Application fee: £150 plus VAT. Annual membership £100 plus VAT. As part of the registration, SAP tests are set and marked independently with a fee of £20 plus VAT per test. For further information please visit www.architectural-epc.co.uk Or tel. Amina Khanum at CIAT Central Office on 020 7278 2206.

Membership © Gino Santa Maria - Fotolia.com

Online Energy Performance Certificates

The RIBA British Architectural Library is celebrating the 500th birthday of Andrea Palladio by launching a major online resource: ‘Palladio and Britain’, at www.architecture.com/palladio

Members of Architectural EPC, the service for UK domestic energy assessors, can now generate Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) online, thanks to a new agreement.

Architectural-EPC is an on-line membership service aimed primarily at construction professionals who wish to become On-Construction Domestic Energy Assessors. Developed by CIAT and RIBA in partnership with Just-Ask Services Limited, the Architectural-EPC scheme is approved and regulated by the Department of Communities and Local Government.(CLG). Architectural-EPC offers a low cost alternative for producing and registering EPCs for new dwellings.

Inquiry into fatalities An inquiry into the underlying causes of construction fatalities is to be launched amid concerns that the UK is not making significant progress in tackling the number of people who have died as a result of their work.

This web-hub enables users to explore the RIBA’s unparalleled collection of Palladio’s books and drawings – over 80 percent of those in existence. As well as viewing Palladio’s design drawings and books, visitors can learn about Palladio’s influence on British architecture from the 16th century to the present day. Watts the idea...EPCs can now be generated online

The scheme enables members to offer clients an additional service and retain complete control over the energy design of domestic projects. Over 500 Architectural Technology professionals and architects have already registered and are actively working towards becoming OnConstruction Domestic Energy Assessors. Full details of the benefits can be found at www.architectural-epc.co.uk.

Learning from mother nature

They can explore British Palladian villas, interiors and elegant country houses through the outstanding collection of photographs held in the RIBA Photographs Collection. Visitors can also browse the Library’s collection of early books, drawings and archives and find out how and why writers, artists, architects and patrons have been captivated by Palladio through the centuries. Palladio’s Villa Rotonda

A website, asknature.org, has been launched which claims to be the world’s first ‘biomimicry’ database, featuring biology-inspired design strategies.

The inquiry, headed by Work and Pensions Secretary James Purnell MP, is to include a review of existing work to consolidate the understanding of fatal injuries in the industry with specific reference to vulnerability, and a deeper analysis of underlying causes including factors outside the health and safety system.

Architectural Technology professionals, designers and engineers can access and harness nature’s billions of years of evolution through this free, online public-domain library, filled with some of nature’s best strategies, organised by function and explained with illustrations and in language relevant to designers.

Commenting, Mr Purnell said: ‘The construction industry is one of the most dangerous sectors in the country − over 2,800 people have died from injuries they received as a result of construction work in the past 25 years.

For instance, someone trying to solve the challenge of how to glue to surfaces in moist environments would find information about barnacles, geckos and other organisms that have solved this problem in the ecosystem in which they live.

‘No one can find it acceptable that this number of people have died directly as a cause of their work and we are not making sufficient progress on preventing this total of human misery.’

Visitors to the site will be able to feast their eyes on Palladio’s own design drawings for villas, palaces and churches, preliminary drawings for woodcuts in his seminal work I Quattro Libri dell’Architettura, and drawings and reconstructions of Roman buildings.

‘It helps us understand the implications of our designs for factors like energy usage, water usage, material usage and shade coefficient’ said Mary Ann Lazarus, Sustainable Design Director, at HOK Architects, a user of the site.

Sunand Prasad, RIBA President said ‘Andrea Palladio’s buildings and drawings supremely exemplify the practice of architecture as a compositional art. ‘500 years later his three dimensional imagination, organisational rigour and mastery of scale and proportion inspire us and set standards that transcend architectural style. ‘The RIBA is fortunate that British architects were amongst the first to recognise the quality of his drawings and, in the conviction that Palladio’s relevance will last and last, we intend to make these treasures available for study and pleasure as widely as possible.’

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Architectural-EPC and Knauf Insulation Limited have reached an agreement which allows members of ArchitecturalEPC to generate Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) for new dwellings using Knauf Insulation’s approved online SAP calculator.

RIBA celebrates Palladio

News Homes and Communities Agency launched The government has launched the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) as England’s single housing and regeneration body. The HCA brings together all the activities of English Partnerships and the Academy for Sustainable Communities, the investment functions of the Housing Corporation and the delivery responsibility of most of CLG’s growth and renewal programmes. Further information is available at: www.homesandcommunities.co.uk

Strictly for the birds A wildlife-friendly garden for an eco-house in Nottingham has been created as a result of a successful farm biodiversity improvement experiment.

database of plants and wildlife species for use in a rural environment.

If successful, the project could become a blueprint for boosting bird and insect populations in new housing developments, business parks and industrial estates across the UK.

‘The results include a significant improvement in bird numbers on the farm, including an increase in numbers of breeding pairs of the endangered tree sparrow from five pairs to 28 pairs in four years,’ explains BASF’s stewardship manager Graham Hartwell.

The garden surrounds the BASF House - an affordable low-energy show-home built by leading chemical company BASF as part of the Creative Energy Homes Project at the University of Nottingham.

Mr Hartwell has developed a revised urban biodiversity plan, nicknamed ‘agriculture in the garden’, that is straightforward to create and maintain by anyone – from householders to business park managers.

The House is a showcase for energy efficient building products and materials. BASF’s market development team wanted the garden and its surroundings to reflect the principles of the House − working with and benefiting the environment – so they turned to colleagues in the agricultural division for advice.

The first step is a bird survey of a site to determine current populations, which influences the planting and seed mixtures recommended. BASF then suggests the most favourable combination of plant species for gardens and open areas to create a balanced canopy and prevent crop competition.

‘Sustainability shouldn’t stop at the front door,’ explains Gill Kelleher, from BASF’s market development team. ‘We wanted a garden that was a sustainable wildlife habitat, working with the environment to minimise water use and encourage plant growth and birdlife. The findings from BASF’s Biodiversity Action Plan fitted perfectly with our requirements.’ For the past six years BASF has been carrying out biodiversity trials alongside its agronomy trials at Rawcliffe Bridge, near Goole in East Yorkshire. The Biodiversity Action Plan work has allowed BASF to create an interactive

The BASF House is located in the University of Nottingham’s campus overlooking the centre of the city, so the Nottingham Wildlife Trust was also consulted as part of the process. The garden was planted with species including Phormium, Photina, Viburnum, Heuchera and Pachysandra. ‘It’s not an immediate quick fix and it can take a number of years for insects to build up populations. But it means the farmer, householder or business park manager is offering wildlife B&B – bed and breakfast for birds that will deliver improved breeding and biodiversity.’

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Downturn now worse than 1980s, warns CPA The construction industry is set for its biggest decline in nearly 30 years, according to the latest forecasts of construction output published by the Construction Products Association (CPA). Output is set to fall by nearly nine percent in 2009 and a further four percent in 2010 − a greater fall than at any time since the early 1980s. Michael Ankers, Chief Executive of CPA said: ‘The speed of decline is having a dramatic effect on many parts of the construction industry and is being driven by an unprecedented reduction in private sector investment resulting from the credit crunch and economic downturn. ‘Private housing starts which fell 43% in 2008 are expected to fall another 32% in 2009, to levels not seen since 1952. Private commercial work has collapsed as the retail sector cuts back on its investment plans in the face of falling sales. Orders for new offices have fallen 47% and as a result we are forecasting that construction output on office projects will fall by 50% over the next two years. ‘The only sectors where construction output is forecast to increase are linked to public spending. The Building Schools for the Future programme has finally got off the ground and spending on education projects is expected to grow by 28% over the next two years. ‘Construction activity in the health sector will also remain strong.’

Membership Membership

CIAT Gold Awards

Membership of the Institute stands at 9,055.

The Gold Award is the Institute’s method of recognising a member’s outstanding service or commitment to Architectural Technology through the Institute, industry or Region/Centre, and is an essential method of awarding individuals who may not normally be recognised.

Chartered 3563 Technician 51 Honorary 17 Associate 2406 Profile candidate 613 Student 2406 Technician Members Congratulation to the following individuals on obtaining Technician membership (TCIAT). 020491 017770 022333 017737

Colin Bingham TCIAT James Lock TCIAT Andrew Pickup TCIAT Neil Railton TCIAT

Chartered Members Congratulations to the following individuals on obtaining Chartered Membership (MCIAT). 018902 017131 019085 014207 017952 015943

Vincent Billington MCIAT Neil Box MCIAT James Dawson MCIAT Steven Irvine MCIAT Peter Nickols MCIAT Peter Stanton MCIAT

This year the Gold Award was presented to:

Leo Forte MCIAT for dedicated service to the Institute and Northern Ireland Region

Robert Dilworth MCIAT for dedicated service to the West Midlands Region

Ian Pawson MCIAT for dedicated to the Yorkshire Region

Chris Wilson MCIAT for dedicated service to the North West Region

Sean Walsh MCIAT (posthumous) for dedicated service to the Central Region

All the Awards and Accreditations on this page were presented at a ceremony held at Trinity House, London on 30 January as AT was going to print. A full report will follow in the next issue.

Reinstatements The Institute would like to welcome back the following individual on re-instating their Chartered Membership of CIAT (MCIAT): 009496 Yau Pak Man MCIAT 017256 William Smith MCIAT 016828 Graham Stevenson MCIAT POP Record seminars POP Record seminars will continue to be held nationwide in 2009. The Membership Department will be visiting Edinburgh on 19 February and Brighton on 3 March (venues to be confirmed), please email Amina Khanum (amina@ciat.org.uk), Membership Assistant for further information on venues or to register

Good result for BBAD CIAT practice BBAD of Rotherham recently won ‘highly commended’ in Rotherham’s Chamber of Commerce awards. The award was to recognise businesses less than three years old showing significant growth, profitability and good business practice.

Five universities Accredited CIAT has awarded five universities Accreditation for their Architectural Technology Honours degree programmes. The University of Derby, Coventry University, Napier University and the University of Ulster all received certificates of re-Accreditation, which symbolises ten years of continued recognition by CIAT for their Honours degree programmes. The University of Westminster received its certificate of Accreditation for the first time. Since 2001, 20 Honours degree programmes have been Accredited by CIAT and granted the title of Accredited Centre for Learning and Teaching in Architectural Technology. Colin Orr MCIAT, Vice President Education, said ‘the recognition of excellence within the learning and teaching of Architectural Technology, via Accreditation by CIAT, is a credit to all the universities that have been successful this year. It is these degree

programmes that are producing the Architectural Technologists of the future, and we can remain confident that all graduates from these programmes will enhance the discipline for decades to come.’

Technical Excellence The prestigious CIAT Open Award for Technical Excellence in Architectural Technology for 2008 has been awarded to John Miller and Partners, from London, for the Brindley Arts Centre, Cheshire. The Award is specifically designed to recognise technical excellence in construction by illustrating the composition of ideas put into practice and presented in a working format. The Award includes a certificate, a plaque for permanent attachment to the project and a cheque for £1500. The winners were announced by Andrew Scott MCIAT, Vice-President Technical at the Institute’s AGM in Hong Kong on 22 November. Andrew Scott said ‘The judges agreed that the building had been designed with sustainability foremost in the designers’ mind and this had produced a structure with a comprehensive energy management system. The judges were unanimous that the building met the high standards necessary to be presented with the Institute’s premier Award for Technical Excellence.’ Richard Brearley, a Partner at John Miller and Partners, said ‘The success of any architectural project depends in large measure on the quality of design and integration of technical sub systems and clarity of detail in support of the overarching architectural concept. ‘We are therefore extremely pleased to have won the CIAT Award for our design of a performing arts centre, where the needs of special lighting, sound systems, acoustics and theatre mechanics were developed in tandem with an efficient structure and low energy strategies for thermal comfort.’ Highly Commended was awarded to Wilkinson King Associates for the Baden Powell Outdoor Centre, Poole for its simplistic design and layout which provides functional space and the ‘encampment’ feel of the site, whilst it belies the design and technology contained within the Centre. Commended went to Darnton Elgee for the Creative Arts Building, University of

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Membership Huddersfield where the design achieved its aims and the use of materials both internally and externally providing an impressive and vibrant building. Both projects will receive a certificate, plaque and cheque.

In memoriam

Alan King Prize

1969 – 2008

Scott Kyson MCIAT of Kyson Design, London was awarded a Commendation in CIAT’s Alan King Prize. The Commendation was for the Floyd Residence project in Surrey. The Award, named after the first Chairman of CIAT, is specifically designed to recognise technical excellence on a budget of less than £500,000, through illustrating the composition of ideas put into practice and presented in a working format. The Award, which includes a certificate, a plaque for permanent attachment to the project and a cheque for £550, was announced by Andrew Scott MCIAT, Vice-President Technical at the Institute’s AGM in Hong Kong. Andrew Scott said on behalf of the judges ‘the project had demonstrated the requirements of the commission to provide an enlarged dwelling with a modern appearance. The project had used traditional materials to extend the original structure with extensive glazed areas allowing the occupants to benefit from the stunning views available.

Top Marks for Albert A special presentation was made in Newcastle on 11 December to honour one of CIAT’s longest serving Members, Albert Marks MCIAT. The presentation was in recognition of his 25 years of loyal service as a Regional Councillor for the Northern Region, and was attended by Mark Kennett PCIAT, President Elect Barry Le Beuvant, Chief Executive Francesca Berriman, and members of the Region.

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Rupert Beverley-Smith MCIAT t is with sadness that we report the death of Rupert Beverley-Smith MCIAT, Chartered Architectural Technologist. Based in the Cotswolds, Rupert had been an active member of Central Region, taking up the post of Technical Co-ordinator, and was also CIAT’s representative with the Green Building Council.

Rupert for a time ran his own practice, and more recently worked for both West Waddy ADP in Abingdon and Batterton Tyack Associates in Moreton-in-Marsh. Amongst his many qualifications he was also a Sustainable Design Consultant and Licensed BREEAM Assessor. Anyone who knew Rupert understood how serious he was firstly about his career and Institute, and secondly about renewable, sustainable design; he was wholly committed to environmental building practices and this passion was a major driving force in his work. He was known to only settle into posts where others shared these beliefs, had been asked to sit on government advisory boards, and was even undertaking a full environmental assessment on his own house including a solar sun station. He worked hard to try and convert clients and fellow professionals to ‘green’ ways of thinking, succeeding more with the former than the latter! Rupert’s environmental expertise also led him to become an Ecohomes/Code for Sustainable Homes Assessor, and he worked in the conservation, leisure, education, housing and healthcare sectors.

One of his notable achievements was developing a design that was to be the UK’s first PassivHaus in liaison with a BRE consultancy team. As a member of the Central Region Committee prior to his move outside the Region, he was warmly respected and put a great deal of energy into organising CPD talks, producing the regional newsletter and contributing new ideas. Away from his profession, Rupert was actively involved in a number of interests. He gave much time to local St John Ambulance divisions, in particular fulfilling duties for their newly-formed Oxfordshire Rapid Response Cycle Unit. He was himself a keen club cyclist and had a history of race involvement, was a junior BMX champion and completed a sponsored cycle from John O’Groats to Land’s End. He also enjoyed the martial art Wing Chun. In addition, Rupert was an active Advanced Motorist which complemented his St John’s work. Such was the esteem in which he was held by St John Ambulance that he received a bugle tribute from them on his passing. A donation is being made by Central Region to St John’s. Our sympathy goes to his family. David Handcock MCIAT

We regret to announce the deaths of the following members: Donald John Brett MCIAT Wokingham, Berkshire

Malcolm John Mifflin MCIAT Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire

Neil Anthony Hitchens MCIAT Birmingham, West Midlands

David Michael Vinnicombe MCIAT Storrington, West Sussex

Hong Kong 2008 Over five days in November, CIAT members and associated professionals gathered in Hong Kong for a series of meeting and visits, including the city’s historic first hosting of a British construction industry AGM. Hugh Morrison, AT Editor reports with additional material by Francesca Berriman, CIAT Chief Executive and Tara Pickles, Education and Research Director.

Main picture: Hong Kong Harbour from Victoria Peak. Inset: Hong Kong Tourist Board’s official poster for the event.

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Excellence in Stanley Presentation of Award for Technical Excellence plaque n 21 November, members of CIAT travelled to the coastal resort of Stanley, Hong Kong Island, to visit Stanley Municipal Services Building and to present its plaque for Highly Commended in the 2007 CIAT Award for Technical Excellence in Architectural Technology.

The building incorporates leisure and cultural facilities, a public library and indoor sports venue. The complex is built in two orders to resolve the problem of a steep change in levels.

Introduction

This reduces the building mass and enhances a sense of integration. Energy conservation takes the form of passive shading, natural ventilation, heat pumps and greywater re-use. CIAT members were privileged to have an in-depth tour of the building which included visiting the public library and seeing a dance class in progress. The Award was presented to representatives of the designers, the Hong Kong Architectural Services Department, HKSAR.

By President Mark Kennett PCIAT very year the AGM and Dinner Dance are hosted by a different CIAT Region or Centre. 2008 was the turn of Hong Kong Centre whose members rose to the challenge with enthusiasm and dedication.

The event, planned since 2006, is of great importance in the current uncertain economic climate, as China may be one of the few areas of economic growth. Forging links between our countries is therefore of mutual benefit. CIAT chose to address the possible environmental impact of the visit by supporting Practical Action, a charity working to reduce carbon in the developing world. They were chosen as they specifically help communities towards low impact technological solutions. I greatly enjoyed representing CIAT at this historic event.

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Top: courtyard of the Municipal Services Building. Below: Mark Kennett PCIAT presents the Award to representatives of HKSAR and the building management

Red sails in the sunset Members set sail on the Friday evening for a night time tour of Hong Kong harbour in a traditional Chinese junk, hosted by Hong Kong Centre. The event featured a Chinese buffet and a charity raffle which raised £1500 for international relief agency Médecins Sans Frontières.

Event sponsors

Membership looks east

The CIAT events were kindly sponsored by Autodesk (Far East) and the Quinn Group, Northern Ireland.

CIAT Assistant Membership Director James Banks hosted a number of membership events in tandem with Hong Kong Centre members at the Harbour Plaza Hotel in order to raise awareness of CIAT in the area.

The event was also supported by RIBA Bookshops and the Architects Benevolent Society. Our thanks go to all organisations.

POP Workshop – All Hong Kong Centre Associate members and profile candidates were invited to receive guidance on completing the POP Records for progression to MCIAT or TCIAT.

POP Panel Training Session – the Hong Kong Centre Assessors were given a training session by Chris Pike PPBIAT MCIAT, Chairman, Moderation Group and James Banks, Assistant Membership Director on how to assess the POP Record evidence once it is submitted. CIAT Open Day – Students, academics and representatives of other institutes were invited to an Open Day offering information on CIAT and guidance on becoming members.

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Annual General Meeting he AGM was held in the Ballroom of the Harbour Plaza Hotel, Kowloon. President Mark Kennett opened the proceedings with a speech made in Cantonese in which he thanked the Hong Kong Centre for its hospitality. A minute’s silence was then held for the late Seán Walsh, Councillor, Central Region, and other members who had died during the year. A video was then shown about the work of charity Practical Action, whom CIAT supported as part of the carbon-offsetting of the event.

After approval of the 2007 AGM minutes, the Annual Report of Council and the accounts and balance sheet were then approved, with auditor Michael Elliott receiving a vote of thanks on the announcement of his retirement. Michael confirmed that the CIAT accounts were in excellent shape with good reserves, making the Institute far better able to face economic downturn than it was in the last recession. An outline was given of the winners of the Gold Award, CIAT Award for Technical Excellence in Architectural Technology, the Alan King Prize and

the Student Award as well as those universities receiving CIAT Accreditation. Resolutions The meeting then moved on to debate the four resolutions. (A full text was sent to all members with their Annual Report). Resolution one: that the Institute introduce a revised Code of Conduct. (Council Resolution). During 2008 the Conduct Committee commissioned a complete review of the Code of Conduct. The new Code removes some repetition, is clear, simple to understand and will be more easily interpreted and administered. It will be issued to members in April. The resolution was carried unanimously. Resolution two: to amend the Institute’s conduct and disciplinary procedures. (Council Resolution). During 2008 the Conduct Committee commissioned a review of its methods of operation as it had become apparent that, due to an increase in cases,

current methods were not the most effective. Proposals include removing the necessity of having the President and a permanent chairman serve on the committee; reducing the committee to a maximum of five members and allowing a broader pool of ‘expert’ members to assist. The resolution was carried unanimously. Resolution three: to develop a course of study in professional practice. (Republic of Ireland Centre Resolution). Following the strategic meeting held in March 2008, it was proposed that the Institute should consider offering a course of tuition to potential and existing Chartered Members in professional practice. Denise Germaine MCIAT (Councillor, Republic of Ireland Centre) spoke in favour of the motion, mentioning that most conduct disputes were due to failures of professional practice rather than lack of technical knowledge. Sam Allwinkle PPBIAT MCIAT, Accreditation Group Chairman, argued that CIAT’s procedures are rigorous

The AGM in the Ballroom, Harbour Plaza Hotel.

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enough already. Adrian Day MCIAT (Central Region) remarked that it was not the job of CIAT to teach subject that should be on university programmes. Gillian Fletcher MCIAT (Republic of Ireland Centre) suggested that universities were not always the best places to learn practice administration. The resolution was rejected by 39 votes to 2. Resolution four: to rename the descriptor ‘local group’ to ‘chapter’. (West Midlands Region Resolution). A proposal that the word chapter be reintroduced to describe the function of regional sub-groups. Robert Davey MCIAT (West Midlands Region) spoke in favour of the motion, arguing that CIAT’s Regions (when part of SAAT) were originally called Chapters, and argued that a strong ‘rebadging’ of local groups would boost involvement at local level. Paul Burton PPBIAT PPCIAT MCIAT (West Midlands Region) said it was very important to support local members in the current downturn. Richard Helliar MCIAT (South Wales and West Region) stated that we should not dictate what local groups are called, as this would be a retrograde step. The resolution was rejected by 29 votes to 12. Other business Following the President’s vote of thanks for Immediate Past President Jim Kirwan and Jim’s response, the meeting was brought to a close. After this there were some ‘unofficial’ duties which included the presentation of a copy of Doorways of Ireland (with Gaelic greetings) from the Republic of Ireland Centre to Hong Kong Centre representative CC Cho. The winner of the raffle was announced as well as the total collected for Médecins Sans Frontières, which was $HK 16,340 (£1500). Award winners The AGM included an official announcement of the winners of CIAT awards. Normally Awards presentations are made at the President’s Annual Dinner and Dance, but for geographic reasons it was decided to hold these at a later date in the UK. The Award winners are outlined in this issue’s Membership news and a full report will follow in the next issue.

Top: representatives of Hong Kong Centre 1 meet at the AGM. Centre: CC Cho MCIAT, Hong Kong Centre 1, receives a gift from Denise Germaine MCIAT, Republic of Ireland Centre 2, and announces charitable funds raised with Mark Kennett PCIAT. Bottom: the ‘top table’ share a joke.

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President’s Annual Dinner Dance

he high point of the CIAT calendar, the President’s Annual Dinner Dance was held in the Ballroom, Harbour Plaza Hotel, on 22 November.

It was attended by c.250 CIAT members and fellow professionals from Hong Kong, the UK and Republic of Ireland and several other countries. The guest of honour was Tony Kan, BBS, JP (Chairman, Association of Hong Kong Professionals) who gave the welcome speech and who was responded to by CC Cho, Hong Kong Centre Chairman. The President’s speech was made in Cantonese and English by Mark Kennett PCIAT. The evening featured a traditional Chinese banquet, dragon dance, a ‘face changing’ dance and music in the western style performed by ‘The Vibe’.

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Opposite, top: guests in the ballroom. Below: the Chinese Dragon. This page, top: Toastmaster and guests process to the dinner. Tony Kan gives the welcoming speech. Middle: Traditional Chinese ‘face changer’ dancer reveals a familiar looking face. Bottom: the President and guests enjoy the dragon dance. The evening finishes with dancing to ‘The Vibe’.

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Sponsors of the 2008 AGM

Promoting CIAT in Hong Kong he opportunity to promote CIAT was made good use of during the visit to Hong Kong with meetings held at universities, the Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic and Vocational Qualifications, and the Hong Kong Housing Authority.

the Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education (IVE). City University has now developed an Honours Degree programme in Architectural Technology which is expected to be submitted for Accreditation in Principle in the very near future.

CIAT was also invited to participate in a meeting hosted by the RIBA with the Hong Kong Institute of Architects (HKIA), the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the Australian Institute of Architects (RAIA).

Tara also visited the Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic and Vocational Qualifications (HKCAAVQ) to gain an insight into how educational programmes are accredited by the regulators in Hong Kong and to provide an overview of the role of CIAT.

Universities Meetings were held at a number of universities in Hong Kong with the objective of promoting the discipline of Architectural Technology and Honours Degree programmes in Architectural Technology. CIAT Education and Research Director Tara Pickles visited Hong Kong Polytechnic University, the Chinese University and the Hong Kong College of Technology to talk to staff members of the Built Environment (and related) Departments.

It was very heartening to hear the Architectural Technology student numbers on the two approved programmes, which stand at approximately 400 at IVE and 100 at City University. CIAT still has some way to go to achieve its aims of more approved and accredited programmes in Hong Kong as well as helping industry understand what our members are capable of in relation to other construction professionals.

These universities and colleges do not currently offer programmes in Architectural Technology, so they discussed the possibility of developing specific programmes, explaining the purpose and function of CIAT as a members’ Institute and providing an overview of Architectural Technology as a profession.

Hong Kong Housing Authority

CIAT currently approves two Architectural Technology programmes, which are sub-Honours Degree level. They are offered by City University and

The meeting with the Hong Kong Housing Authority (an important employer of CIAT members and a supporter of the Institute) provided the

All the meetings, however, were successful in terms of promotion of the profession and will now pave the way to closer working with government, industry and educational establishments in Hong Kong.

President with the opportunity to give an update on the activities of CIAT and the development of the discipline. The Institute, led by the Chief Executive and with the Vice President Education, Colin Orr took part in a very friendly round table discussion with the RIBA, HKIA, AIA and RAIA which provided CIAT the opportunity to network with RIBA and HKIA and establish new and invaluable links with AIA and RIAI. Following the meeting the President and other CIAT guests joined the RIBA for a private reception at the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club. Northern Ireland trade mission At the same time CIAT was in Hong Kong a Northern Ireland Trade Mission to Hong Kong and China was being run and CIAT’s President, PresidentElect, Vice President Education, Chief Executive, CIAT Hong Kong Centre Chairman and Chairman Elect together with senior Northern Ireland CIAT members attended the Northern Ireland Trade Mission reception. This provided an ideal opportunity for the CIAT delegation to network and discuss issues with senior Hong Kong government officials and business people, which will raise the profile of CIAT and the discipline of Architectural Technology. Left: L-R Desmond Cheng, CIAT Hong Kong Centre, Connie Lok, Principal Registrar HKCAAVQ. Francesca Berriman, CIAT Chief Executive. Tara Pickles, CIAT Education and Research Director. Mark Kennett PCIAT, Julianne Wong – Senior Registrar HKCAAVQ. Colin Orr MCIAT, Vice President Education, CIAT. Below: Francesca Berriman with RIBA Chief Executive Richard Hastilow.

AT magazine — January/February 2009 19

Eastern Harbour Crossing Site visit and presentation

n 24 November CIAT members attended a technical site visit to a residential development , Eastern Harbour Crossing (Phase 4), Yau Tong Lane, Kowloon. Members were given an introductory talk and site tour by project architect Helen Leung and contractor Au Choi Wa. Hugh Morrison, CIAT Communications Director, made a presentation to each of them on behalf of the Centre.

Eastern Harbour Crossing is a 3.6 ha (43,055 sq yds) development of highrise social housing provided by Hong Kong’s Housing Department to families who cannot afford adequate rented accommodation. It will eventually house 50,000 people. There are over 110,000 people on Hong Kong’s housing waiting list, so high density and speedy production have been of the essence in this project. Typical construction for this type of project is forty stories with a selection of studio flats between 20 and 28 square metres (200 to 300 square feet) intended to house between one and five people. To UK members this seemed surprisingly small but by Hong Kong standards this is normal due to

the population density, and such small spaces are mitigated by the warm climate which allows outdoor living for most of the year. In buildings of this height, fire safety is of paramount importance so all kitchen doors have tumescent fire seals and each block has a self-contained firefighters lift shaft with its own power supply. The blocks use curtain wall and window units manufactured in China and have some sustainable aspects such as overhangings to reduce solar gain, modular green panels (grass panelling) and green roofs. It is the first development in Hong Kong to use FSC accredited timber for doors, and also has an aerator to reduce water consumption. Construction is intense, with one storey built every six days. Good work practices are paramount with regular medical checks and heat exhaustion prevention, which has led to a very low accident rate. Our thanks go to the site managers and the Hong Kong Centre for allowing us this glimpse into Hong Kong life.

20 AT magazine — January/February 2009

Top: CIAT members tour the site. Inset: CIAT Communications Director Hugh Morrison makes a presentation to architect Helen Leung. Above: hydration on site is taken seriously, and CIAT visitors were given water bottles.

tuesday 03 thursday 05 march 2009 earls court, london register for your free invitation www.ecobuild.co.uk

the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest event for sustainable design, construction and the built environment

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Develop your career with CIAT Specialist Registers

CIAT Chartered Environmentalist

CIAT Conservation Register

As a constituent body for the Society for the Environment, CIAT is able to award the Chartered Environmentalist qualification to its Chartered Members The Society for the Environment is the leading co-ordinating body in environmental matters and is a pre-eminent champion of a sustainable environment, which has registered over 4800 Chartered Environmentalists (CEnv).

The CIAT Conservation Register identifies Chartered Architectural Technologists competent in the conservation of historical buildings and their surroundings as defined and recognised by the Edinburgh Group.

To be eligible to become a Chartered Environmentalist, applicants must be MCIAT and accrue a minimum of twelve units where 1 year of relevant academic experience = 2 units and/or 1 year of relevant professional/work experience = 1 unit. Applicants may be from any country. Application fee: £200.00. Annual subscription: £60.00. For further information please visit www.ciat.org.uk/en/members/specialist_registers/ chartered_environmentalist/ Or telephone Amina Khanum at CIAT Central Office on 020 7278 2206.

22 AT magazine — January/February 2009

Suitability for the Register is based upon a technical assessment of a candidate’s portfolio followed by a formal interview. Applicants must be resident in the UK. Application fee: £150.00 plus VAT. Annual subscription: £50.00 plus VAT. Subs year runs May-April; half year subs available to those joining after 1 November. No additional joining fee for reassessment after 5 years except if an interview is required in which case the fee is £100 (subject to change). For further information please visit: www.ciat.org.uk/en/members/specialist_registers/ conservation_register/ Or telephone Amina Khanum at CIAT Central Office on 020 7278 2206.

The Surface Design Show The future of architectural design and trends at the 2009 Surface Design Show

Sebastian commented: ‘With surfaces, form often follows fashion while not necessarily focusing on the ultimate function of the product. Therefore, it is vital that throughout the design and manufacturing process the authenticity of the finished product is at the fore, regardless of the materials being used.’

he Surface Design Show (Business Design Centre, London, 10-12 February 2009) is the UK’s only event to focus exclusively on surface solutions for the built environment and has established itself as a must-see event for Architectural Technology professionals, architects, designers and specifiers.

Sustainability

The event, supported by CIAT, offers visitors the opportunity to interact with some of the most vibrant and innovative products from around the world.

Sustainability and innovation will also be the main theme for a series of seminar presentations to be run by BRE, which will provide a background to the Green Guide to Specification while focusing on particular surfaces, examining in detail their environmental performance.

In 2009, Sebastian Conran and RIBA President Sunand Prasad will feature alongside more than 100 of the most inspiring and innovative surface design manufacturers and suppliers in the industry. In addition, a number of brand new features focusing on sustainability, technology and the latest creative innovations will highlight what is sure to be the most varied and thought provoking event to date. VIP Preview and Gala Evenings The VIP Preview Evening (10 February, 6.00-9.00 pm) and Gala Evening (11 February, 6.00-9.00pm) have proven to be extremely popular over the years by offering visitors the chance to hear from some of the architecture and design industry’s leading voices while getting a sneak preview of the show.

New to the Surface Design Show in 2009 will be the ‘Green Surfaces’ zone. This new section will showcase an extensive selection of the most visually inspiring, sustainable, recyclable and renewable materials available for contemporary building design.

Surface Innovations Another brand new feature at the show is ‘Surface Innovations’. This zone will focus on the latest stimulating materials and technologies emerging from the design industry today. A number of the industry’s most creative manufacturers will be exhibiting their latest designs. Exhibitors The Surface Design Show 2009 has attracted an exciting mix of new exhibitors as well as many of the

favourites from previous shows, all of whom will be displaying their latest creative designs from the whole range of surfaces. Exterior facades will be on show through a number of companies including the Expanded Metal Company and first time exhibitor Twentinox, the Dutch architectural metal mesh specialist, and Glass Inspiration, the Austrian developers of laminated glass that can be manufactured for use in a wide range of interior applications. Illuminating Surfaces Following the success of its debut at the 2008 show, ‘Illuminating Surfaces’ will once again celebrate the important relationship between light and materials in building design. This section will showcase an inspiring selection of the latest and finest architectural, decorative and contemporary lighting as well as materials that either alter their composition with light or alter their luminosity, translucency and colour. CIAT members can pre-register to attend the event for free by visiting www.surfacedesignshow.com

A stainless steel finish by show exhibitors Rimex Metals.

Sunand Prasad will feature in a controversial live debate which will look at whether there is a place for professional ethics in the new global economy. This year does not disappoint as the Gala Evening will feature the multi-award winning designer Sebastian Conran. Sebastian will be looking at the importance of authenticity in surface design as well as taking questions from the audience following his presentation.

AT magazine — January/February 2009 23

By Chris Gaze, BRE. Lessons learnt by the first four developers to design to the Code for Sustainable Homes at the Building Research Establishment (BRE) Innovation Park, have led to the production of some useful tips for those working on Code compliant projects. ew guidance for housebuilders on delivering homes that comply with the Code for Sustainable Homes has been published as a four-part Information Paper by BRE, covering:

1. Building fabric 2. Energy and ventilation 3. Water 4. Architecture, construction and sourcing. The guidance is based on lessons learnt from the experiences of housebuilders ecoTECH, Hanson, Kingspan Offsite and Stewart Milne Group, who were the first companies to design and build to the Code between November 2006 when the Code was published and the Offsite2007 exhibition in June 2007. 1. Building fabric The Code for Sustainable Homes is accelerating changes in how a building’s fabric is constructed for thermal insulation, airtightness, and the minimisation of thermal bridging. As well as producing a fabric with excellent U-values, minimising thermal bridging and air-leakage will also be critical to the success of those dwellings aspiring to the higher levels of the Code – and this can be challenging. Experience gained at the Innovation Park shows that simple house designs are easier to make airtight, as are large

panel construction systems with few joints. When approaching airtight house design it is wise to recognise the difficulty of achieving low air permeability on site, and take this into account at the planning stage. The aim should be to make the whole house airtight with a robust primary air barrier. Windows and doors must be specified and installed for airtightness, daylighting and solar gain as well as thermal performance and sustainability. Sustainably sourced windows and doors with low U-values, which are also Secured by Design approved, are available. For these projects they were all sourced from outside the UK, but UK fenestration suppliers are catching up. 2. Energy, overheating and ventilation The four companies took varying approaches to Code compliance when making the necessary choices about energy sources, ventilation and the potential for overheating. Focusing on either low or zero carbon energy sources or on energy efficient fabric, and using a range of construction types, materials, and ventilation and cooling strategies, their combined experiences covered many of the challenges and options now facing UK housebuilders. Energy Achieving Code Levels 5 and 6 demands the use of ‘renewable’ energy, either generated communally, or through micro-generation at each house. Micro-generation was used at the Innovation Park, with photovoltaics proving likely to be the most appropriate method of generating electricity. If energy is generated communally other methods become

24 AT magazine — January/February 2009

viable such as larger wind turbines, biomass and CHP. A range of other energy technologies were also tried at the Innovation Park, such as gas boilers which can be used in designs for Code Levels 1–5, solar thermal panels that are relatively cost effective and therefore popular sources of renewable energy, and heat pumps that can offer low-energy heating and hot water provision if matched to appropriate building types and heating strategies. Whatever systems are selected, the experiences of the four housebuilders showed that care must be taken to keep them simple to install, maintain and use. Thermal comfort and overheating The Innovation Park houses demonstrated that appropriate shading, thermal mass and ventilation can minimise overheating. Shading, for example, can be improved with external shutters, balconies and canopies, while thermal mass can be increased by using additional heavy panels, tiles and plaster skim onto blockwork. Using louvred and meshed ventilation panels in windows increases natural ventilation while maintaining security. In addition, placing bedrooms downstairs

(Photos: Peter White, BRE)

Learning from the Code

helps to keep them cooler. Ventilation The new guidance advises housebuilders on using the most efficient mechanical ventilation and heat recovery (MVHR) systems listed in Appendix Q of SAP, and installing them correctly. It also highlights the need to allow enough space in floor and wall zones for MVHR ducting, and to take account of this when designing the storey heights and the layout of the dwelling. The guidance suggests that prefabricating MVHR systems and their ductwork offsite should be considered, to make conforming to the specification more likely. 3. Water While water use is often overlooked in sustainability plans, its importance is reflected in the Code for Sustainable Homes which demands mandatory water consumption levels and awards 10% of its credits to water-related issues. When looking at improving water use there are three basic strategies that can be combined: – minimising water use – using rainwater

must be fitted with functioning overflows. Rainwater from roofs should be taken directly to storage tanks without using open or grated gullies. All surfaces used to collect rain for harvesting systems need to be colourfast, non-rusting and free draining to prevent possible discolouration of the water, and staining and deterioration of the surface. It should be noted that not all manufacturers permit rainwater to be used in their washing machines – in these cases use of rainwater may invalidate the guarantee. Greywater recycling As greywater recycling systems normally require more maintenance than rainwater systems (and an annual visit by a specialist is generally recommended) consideration should be given to communal water reuse systems that can be maintained by an outside contractor.

Careful specification of white goods can save water and earn points under the Code

– recycling greywater. The many lessons learnt about water use, harvesting, recycling and drainage from the four houses on the BRE Innovation Park include the following brief selection: Minimising water use Water use can be reduced whilst minimising the effect on the end user by using aerated showers and taps to increase perceived flow rate without increasing water use, and kitchen taps that have a water brake at the mid-flow allowing kettles etc to be filled at the higher flow rate. Where flow restrictors are fitted to tapware, care must be taken to ensure they have been installed and set correctly. Water supply pipework should be sized and designed to minimise dead-legs and run-off times. Careful specification of white goods can save water and earn points under the Code. Low-water-use white goods can be found ranked on the Waterwise website (www.waterwise.org.uk), but care must be taken that the white goods specified are subsequently installed.

The colour of water in these systems often has a grey hue so end-users need to be prepared for this, and it is possible for the water to be contaminated – which is more likely if systems collect water from kitchen or utility room sinks. Examples of greywater contamination on the Innovation Park have included coffee granules, which have turned the water brown for a brief period, and paint from the washing of brushes. This sort of contamination is less likely if the greywater comes only from baths and showers, and not sinks. Design and maintenance issues The routing of pipework is more complex for rainwater and greywater systems, and water capture, pipe routing (including gradients), and water storage and disposal need to be considered early in the design process.

Rainwater harvesting

The interface with other plumbing systems, incoming water, hot water and heating needs careful thought and integration to avoid unnecessary complexity and confusion over which contractor is responsible for which elements.

Water butts that collect water from the roof are an easy and effective way of obtaining credits under the Code, but

For ease of maintenance and repair, appliances’ terminal fittings should be isolated individually and be accessible

for maintenance. Where pumps are used they should be placed outside to limit noise and ensure accessibility. 4. Architecture, construction and material sourcing It is easy to assume that the Code is mainly about reducing carbon emissions and conserving water, but there are also heavily weighted credits available in such areas such as ecology, which includes build density, and health (including daylighting). The Code encourages efficient use of the building footprint, and housing more than two storeys high will nearly always obtain credits for this. Balconies provide private/semi-private space – 1.2% of the overall credits available in the Code – and can also offer some solar shading. Mono-pitch roofs lend themselves to the mounting of solar panels. Kitchens and living areas placed upstairs have better access to daylight, while bedrooms – where daylight is less important – located downstairs are cooler in summer, which can help residents to sleep more comfortably. Rooflights are particularly effective for daylighting, but if too many windows are specified this will impact on the heat loss (and solar gain) of the building fabric. The form of a building can cause problems in construction. Curves, for example, can be expensive to construct and difficult to seal for airtightness – large roof spaces can also make achieving good airtightness more difficult. Many suppliers are still surprised to be asked to produce evidence of their products’ environmental credentials, which can make sourcing satisfactory documentary evidence difficult. Chain of custody information should therefore be obtained before placing orders for materials. Full details of these and many other issues are given in the BRE Trust sponsored Information Paper, Applying the Code for Sustainable Homes on the BRE Innovation Park, Parts 1-4, which is available from www.brebookshop.com Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training courses on these and other topics related to the Innovation Park are now being developed – contact events@bre.co.uk for details. This article was previously published in Constructing the Future magazine and is reproduced by kind permission of BRE.

AT magazine — January/February 2009 25

Opinion

Code breakers Encouraging building occupants to use houses effectively under the Code for Sustainable Home can be a challenge, writes Paul Hicks ACIAT. here are many new materials, technologies, applications and services now available in the housing industry, many of which have been influenced or developed as a direct result of the Code for Sustainable Homes* and similar legislation. But how good is a design, if the occupants do not use the house effectively to maximise the benefits?

The Code itself has been developed as a flexible framework that enables housebuilders to demonstrate the sustainability of new homes (sustainability in this context is the design, procurement, construction and use of a building with the impact on the environment in mind.) It is also intended to be a mark of quality for consumers, giving them information they can trust to help them to choose a new home to match individual lifestyles and aspirations. Future housing stock needs to be designed effectively, in order to be better placed to adapt to climate change and to ensure that there is a reduced impact from households on the environment. This ‘future proofing’ is an essential part of good design in today’s housing market, but it will be wasted if the building occupants are not aware of the consequences of their lifestyles. A big challenge for any housebuilder is to understand exactly what their customers would prefer to have in a new dwelling. It could be that home buyers are keen to be involved with renewable energy, or they may prefer to consider the well-being and health of their family as a priority. Flexibility in design is therefore essential not only to accommodate a wide range of customer requirements and expectations, but also to support any long term strategies to address climate change, provided that families use the dwellings in the way they were intended to be used. Wherein lies a problem. Housing designers have an ongoing frustration in that there may be plenty going on with innovation into new

Sustainability is in the hands of the home owner...

products, processes, systems etc, to support the need for better housing design and performance, but there is not enough being done to educate the end user in how to get the best out of their new home.

How good is a design if the occupants do not use the house effectively? In category 8 of the Code (Management), there is reference to providing a ‘home user guide’, the aim of which is to encourage housebuilders to provide guidance in using and maintaining the new home. Unfortunately, there appear to be no measures to ensure that the guide is actually read or even referred to. So, will the homebuyer read it as they are

26 AT magazine — January/February 2009

expected to? And do housebuilders understand what should be included? The Code currently only awards credits for providing a guide, but maybe there should only be credits awarded if there is proof of training provided. And before we even consider the type and amount of information to be provided, we need to understand how people think and behave and how certain disabilities may restrict access to a guide. Let’s face it, many people don’t even read instructions and say ‘It’s pointless reading instructions because half the time they are wrong, so you’re better off working it out yourself.’ Many only refer to instructions as a last resort - ‘I just crack on with it. But when I make a mess of it, then I go and read up about it.’ Others struggle with recognised medical conditions such as basic dyslexia and those who have genuine difficulty in reading instructions. Some 10 million people in the UK become

flustered when called upon to use basic English skills or read instructions. There is also short sightedness and the registered blind to consider, creating the need to have guides available in alternative formats.

running costs of the dwelling. A simple guide on how much electricity (on average) the individual electrical products use in the home would be useful, similar to those issued in the fuel crisis of the mid 1970s.

These are just the basic challenges in ensuring that people can actually access and use the ‘home user guide’ provided.

People also need also to change their mind-set and not expect (for example) to be able to walk around their homes in shorts and T-shirts in the winter. This is crucial to maintaining the effectiveness of a design.

How therefore, is it best to approach the way information is recorded and presented?

‘Future proofing’ is an essential part of good design Paper may well be considered to be ‘old fashioned’, but for many people it is still the preferred option. However, it should be recognised that modern technology has a part to play in reducing the impact on the environment and this can include storing and using information, with the following in mind:

Will the guide contain sufficient guidance and information? Will it be in a format that is easily understood?

Will information be easily accessible?

What media will it be available in?

Will it be easily transferable?

Can it be updated easily?

Fixtures and fittings will have to be replaced over time and so it would be useful to be able to update the home user guide with information relating to the new items. Occupiers need also to be made aware of the implications if they do not replace fixtures and fittings with like for like products or systems. Ideally therefore, continuity of format and media between product suppliers/ housebuilders/end users would be beneficial in the longer term.

Of course, it’s not just about conserving energy, it’s about effective recycling as well. Most local authorities are now enforcing recycling collections which has resulted in people changing their lifestyles to accommodate this requirement. This forced approach has effectively removed many of the barriers associated with trying to encourage effective recycling.

People need also to change their mind-set As local authorities have varying methods and targets, the housebuilder would do well to research the local strategy on waste collection and recycling and not only provide the necessary containers, but also advise on council recycling targets, specialist facilities and useful tips, (eg composting), especially for those moving in from outside the area. This sort of support is essential to provide a positive base from which to build.

Many people are still of the opinion that global warming and climate change is grossly exaggerated and not nearly as bad as the media makes out. Consequently, no matter how hard we try or what measures we introduce, we will always have the problem of encouraging people to act responsibly. And unfortunately, we are not currently in a position to have a forced approach to energy efficiency in the same way that we have with recycling. The next step therefore, may be to design in such a way that the building restricts indulgent occupiers, (designing out central heating systems for example) thereby preventing misuse and ultimately helping to protect the environment. We are all aware of the debate out there as to whether man is responsible for the current climate change issue, or indeed whether there is a climate change problem, but this debate is irrelevant as we have a moral responsibility to help protect the planet and must therefore change the way we live in order to do this. *The Code is applicable in England with variants in other parts of the UK − check your planning department for full details. Paul Hicks ACIAT is Design Manager for Velux and a member of CIAT’s Innovation and Research Committee. This article is based on a presentation given at Ecobuild, February 2008.

Providing information in a home user guide is unlikely to be sufficient in encouraging people to be more pro-active in combating climate change, especially as there are so many new and different kinds of systems/products on the market. We should therefore be encouraging them to think carefully about the products they bring into the house and the impact they may have on the

AT magazine — January/February 2009 27

CIAT Student Award he Student Award is an opportunity for student members of CIAT to demonstrate their achievement of technical excellence in Architectural Technology by putting ideas into practice, and can be taken from a university or college assignment or a project from the practice where you are employed.

Entries must show the achievement of excellence in design and technology in the following areas: •Technical performance •Integrated health and safety •Sustainability •Buildability •Evidence of life cycle costings and assessment •Innovation •Integration of fabric structures and services

2008 winner The 2008 winner was Gemma Hickling of Sheffield Hallam University. She said ‘The CIAT Student Award is something that I had been working towards throughout my time at university. ‘When I started the Architectural Technology programme at Sheffield Hallam in September 2003 I never imagined that I would not only get a First Class honours but also win this Award! ‘I am delighted with my achievement which shall take pride of place on my CV. It has given me the confidence to go on to achieve my MCIAT to further my career within the architecture profession.’ How to enter

Prizes Winner (First prize): trophy, certificate and £750 Highly Commended (Second prize): trophy, certificate and £400 Commended (Third prize): certificate and £250

To apply, please contact Holly Willbourn, CIAT Central Office. Forms available from March. Tel. 020 7278 2206. Email holly@ciat.org.uk

First P rize £750!

Deadline for entries is 30 June 2009.

Become an assessor with

RIBA CPD Providers Network The RIBA CPD Providers Network is a consortium of manufacturers, non-profit-making bodies, trade associations, trainers and advisory organisations. Their basic obligations are to offer RIBA-assessed CPD to construction professionals. The Network has been in existence since the mid 1990s. We are looking for assessors in the North East and Midlands area to meet with new Providers on joining to help point them in the right direction so that their material conforms with RIBA guidelines and assess the actual material on submission. If you would be interested in becoming one of our CPD assessors please contact Gemma Suter on 0207 307 3645 or email gemma.suter@inst.riba.org for further information

Publications Introduction to Architectural Technology By Pete Silver and Will McLean

Review by Graham Paterson HonMCIAT and Tahar Kouider Pete Silver and Will McLean both teach at the University of Westminster. While they have primarily crafted this book for architecture students, it should attract a wider readership among built environment undergraduates including CIAT student members.

Review by James Cunnington ACIAT The main subject matter of the book is to introduce the science and materials used in construction and explain how these can be applied to create different forms of structures and buildings. These materials are shown, with the use of case studies, from their raw state to the methods of bonding, fixing, jointing and their application around the world and throughout history. The book appears to be aimed at students of architectural subjects. The book helps to explain these methods of construction by using

As the authors have outlined, the text sets out to explain the relationships between physical phenomena, materials, building elements and structural types, using simple classification systems and real examples. To develop these intentions, this well illustrated technology primer is logically set out to include sections on Structure and Form, Climate and Shelter, Computational Tools/Techniques and Case Studies. Supporting exemplars range from the indigenous and generic (igloo), to the site specific and contemporary (Davies Alpine House, Wilkinson Eyre architects, 2005). These case studies explore the sources and typologies applicable to a wide range of construction techniques on a contextual timeline which stretches from 8000 BC to 2005 AD. The strength of the book is its breadth in presenting a range of techniques for organizing and applying construction technologies from first principles. In this context, it should appeal particularly to students in the early years of undergraduate study. Practitioners with a thirst to update their knowledge of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) might also find the sections on data structures including Building Information Modelling (BIM) and environmental analysis useful lead-ins to further reading for CPD. Overall, this is a well structured and clearly presented text, informative and up-to-date. It is unfortunate that the England and Wales Building Regulations have been presented as applying across the UK; an uncharacteristic error of fact in an otherwise very readable and useful addition to the contemporary body of knowledge on Architectural Technology.

book include information relating to building heating, ventilation systems and daylight control. These sections provide good basic knowledge, but lack the use of case studies which would help to enable further reading or research to fully understand them. The book also includes details of how computer technology has influenced how materials and structures have developed in modern times. This section would be particularly useful to new and future students who may have little understanding of what it was like before CAD modelling. Not only does it explain how computers changed the way buildings were designed but also how new technology is pushing the methods of construction further. Another small section containing only a few pages details building codes and regulations. A subject that can be difficult to cover due to ever changing laws and regulations. What this book does is cover the titles of the building regulations ‘parts’ and give a brief description to each one. Although this part is brief it would prove very useful as it is a subject that many students do not come into contact with until working on a real project. From this point of view the book helps to introduce them.

numerous and varied case studies. These range from single material and structure building examples such as igloos and tepees through to more modern detailed examples such as the ‘gherkin’ and the media centre at Lords’ cricket ground. These case studies are well presented with detailed but brief information and facts. They also include many photos and diagrams and are produced in such a way that they can be easily understood and absorbed quickly. The way in which these are referenced results in a book which is also a good reference tool that would be useful to anybody involved in architecture. Some of the case studies could be regarded as ‘classics’ that appear time and time again, such as the Pantheon in Rome, but the book uses these well to explain how the methods of construction have evolved over time. The book does not only cover the material and structural side of architecture. Smaller sections in the

The last feature at the back of the book is the further reading and resources section, which enables someone who wishes to find out more about a particular material or case study by providing a list of useful books, website and contacts. In conclusion a nicely presented book that is great for students of all architectural subjects, including Architectural Technology and engineers. The book may also prove to be useful after studies thanks to the use of case studies and great photos which show many classic building forms. Some areas of the book are stronger than others in relevance to Architectural Technology, such as the properties of construction materials and their many uses in buildings. The only minor disappointment for me is that a book titled Introduction to Architectural Technology does not mention an Architectural Technologist! Laurence King Publishing. Oct 2008. ISBN 9781856695664. £19.95.

AT magazine — November/December 2008 29

Publications Guide to ‘Greenwash’

trous fire in 1992, along with the painstaking restoration of the ceiling of the Lords’ Chamber in the Palace of Westminster (1981-4) , all of which, and much more, is described in the book.

Landscape materials producer Marshalls plc has called upon the hard landscaping and gardening industry, to help halt false ecological product claims, known as ‘greenwash’.

The book carries over 300 illustration and detailed drawings. It expresses and works out ideas about the successive ‘degrees of intervention’ needed in managing historic buildings, their problems and valuable assets, ensuring them a living future.

The company has produced a new guide aimed at businesses and professionals in the industry. The Halt the Greenwash guide aims to increase awareness of false eco and ethical pledges and provide information on how to spot and stop greenwashing. In the booklet, Marshalls explores the issues of false eco claims and offers the following advice on how to avoid being greenwashed:

Living Buildings

•

Look for clear product information on sourcing and environmental impact

•

Ensure rigorous and accountable standards

By Donald Insall

•

Check for independently verified labelling

•

Look for membership of stakeholder organisations

•

Ask about compliance to codes such as PAS2050 and the ETI Base Code

Founded by the author 50 years ago, Donald Insall Associates are today some 80 strong, with London headquarters and six branch offices undertaking work country-wide.

The most common claims that the designers had come across included: ethical sourcing of products; low carbon footprints; no child labour and responsible supply chain management.

Architectural Conservation: Philosophy, principles and practice

Foreword by HRH The Prince of Wales

The team were the coordinating architects for the restoration work at Windsor Castle, following the disas-

The Halt the Greenwash booklet is available for download at www.marshalls.co.uk/ sustainability

Scottish construction news CIAT members are invited to subscribe to an online newsletter from the Scottish Construction Centre, the body set up to promote innovation and excellence in Scotland's construction industry. The newsletter gives progress on the Centre's activities and has details of future events and initiatives. To register for your free copy, please visit:

30 AT magazine — January/February 2009

All aspects are explained, from how to survey and analyse a building and its owner requirements, to planning and co-ordinating building contracts are explained. Examples are given of every degree of building care from day-today attention through planned maintenance programmes to major repair and improvement, to the extreme of designing news building in their context. Oct. 2008. Images Publishing. £39.50. ISBN 9781864701920

Building happiness – architecture to make you smile This book discusses whether the way we design our built environment can have a direct bearing on how happy we feel. Can we construct happiness? What components make for a happy building or space? How do we measure and quantify this response? Building Happiness gathers public and informed opinion on the subject and provokes discussion amongst all those who inhabit, plan or design our built spaces, encouraging the professionals to keep happiness at the centre of their work. Black Dog Publishing 2008. 208pp. £24.95. ISBN 09781906155469

Free fire safety newsletter A free e-newsletter is available for anyone working in the field of fire safety engineering. To subscribe, please visit www.fseonline.co.uk

What’s on February

March

10-12. Surface Design Show, London.

3-5 Ecobuild exhibition, Earls Court, London.

Supported by CIAT, the Surface Design Show is the only UK event to focus exclusively on interior and exterior surface solutions in building design. Held at the Business Design Centre, Islington, the show features hundreds of the most innovative, creative and inspirational surface products. For further information or to register for free tickets, please visit www.surfacedesignshow.com or tel 020 8387 3200

CIAT is exhibiting at Ecobuild, the biggest and best showcase of sustainable construction products anywhere, with dozens of inspiring attractions and more than 100 free conference and seminar sessions. Speakers include The Rt Hon Nick Raynsford, MP, and Sunand Prasad, President, RIBA, broadcaster Kirsty Lang and Giles Barry ACIAT. For further information and free tickets, visit www.ecobuild.co.uk or tel 020 7763 5929

stand-alone and grid connected systems, wind analysis and turbine siting, generators, rotor design and speed control.

11. Downturn conference, London. Organised by the Chartered Institute of Marketing Construction Group and held at the Building Centre, London, this conference will discuss strategies for dealing with the economic downturn. For further information please visit www.cimcig.org or tel. Chris Ashworth on 07747 626095. 24. Delivering Energy Infrastructure. Conference, London. A Building Design magazine event supported by CIAT, which will cover the various construction opportunities arising from the UK’s future energy plans. Speakers include representatives from Areva, EDF, Arup, Halcrow, Department for Energy and Climate Change. 10% discount on early bird rate to CIAT members. For further information please visit www.buildingconferences.com/energy 25. Building Transport Infrastructure. Conference, Dublin. Public capital spending in Ireland will be the mainstay of construction activity for the foreseeable future, with almost €4billion alone planned for transport infrastructure in 2009. If you want to hear from some of the key people responsible for these giant projects and get real insights into construction opportunities, the 2009 annual Building Transport Infrastructure Conference is the only place that you can do it all under one roof. The guest speaker will be Noel Dempsey TD. To secure your place please contact Sarah Doolan on 003531 764 2413 or visit www.commercialevents.ie

CPD Attendance at industry events counts towards CPD (Continuing Professional Development) and should be recorded on your CIAT CPD record card. For further information on CPD, please visit www.ciat.org.uk/en/members/CPD/

11. Social Affordable Housing. Conference, London.

The participants will join students on modules of CAT’s MSc Renewable Energy and the Built Environment and will gain a comprehensive overview of the subject in theoretical and workshop sessions. Cost is £600 which includes accommodation. For further information please visit www.cat.org.uk

April 28. Sustainable housing forum, London The Government’s Housing Green Paper 'Homes for the Future: More Affordable, More Sustainable' (July 2007), sets out to improve the housing fabric of our society by aiming to provide more homes to meet a growing demand, well-designed and greener homes linked to good schools, transport and healthcare, and more affordable homes to buy or rent. This forum will provide delegates the opportunity to explore the challenges of increasing housing supply in the context of the current economic crisis.

May

A one-day conference which will examine the imminent plans for housing construction, including the Homes and Communities Agency's strategy, the effect of new planning powers, the impact of the downturn on housing associations developments and the plans for reducing the risk of new developments. 10% discount on early bird rate to CIAT members. For further information please visit www.buildingconferences.com/housing 17. Wind turbine generators course, Machynlleth. Organised by the Centre for Alternative Technology, this six day course covers

20-21. Cities in the sky conference, BRE, Watford. Around the globe high-rise buildings and super high-rise buildings are appearing like never before. They are often beautiful and innovative, and far removed from the functional boxes of the 1980s, however, there can be concerns on their safety and security, evacuation, structural resistance to fire and extreme events. This two day international conference, held at BRE Global Watford on 20 and 21 May 2009, is being organised to focus on the fire and safety of tall buildings, and to the related topics of security and sustainability.

Wise and witty words on architecture

Key note speakers will include; Prof. Jose Torero of the BRE Centre for Fire Safety Engineering at University of Edinburgh, and Simon Lay of WSP Group.

Never be afraid to try something new. Remember, amateurs built the ark. Professionals built the Titanic.

The event will be of particular interest to those who are responsible for the design and specification of tall buildings and the purchase of the fire and security products.

Anon.

For further information on the event and to register for a place at the event please visit: www.bre.co.uk/cities

Architexts

AT magazine — January/February 2009 31

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