UWA Handbook 2025

Unit Overview

Description

This unit investigates the issues involved in the integration of various technical and construction systems in building as required by the National Construction Code (NCC). A series of lectures highlights how the specific requirements of the NCC vary according to the class of building and how a variety of solutions is available to meet these requirements. Students consider the interaction of these technical requirements with aesthetic design intent; this balance is at the core of architecture. Running parallel to the lecture program are site visits to buildings where students view the implementation of the NCC/BCA requirements in the construction detailing and the integration of building technology, and then speculate on the reasons for these design decisions and the success or otherwise of these strategies.

Credit

6 points

Offering
(see Timetable)

Availability	Location	Mode
Semester 1	UWA (Perth)	Face to face

Outcomes

Students are able to (1) analyse specific parts of the NCC and its impact on complex building construction; (2) synthesise within the design and building process the various technical and construction systems involved in highly serviced buildings; and (3) critically analyse and report on buildings and systems and the interaction of diverse requirements.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) site diary/report to record and comment on the site visits; (2) compliance 1:50 section; and (3) compliance report and accompanying set of drawings. Further information is available in the unit outline.

Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)

Gemma Hohnen

Unit rules

Prerequisites

Enrolment in

25520 Master of Architecture (ID 6)

Incidental fees

Incidental student fees and charges are costs incurred by students as part of their studies at UWA that are in addition to their tuition fees (further information is available "
Participation in this unit will incur the following incidental fee(s):
Certified protective work helmet, hard-capped safety footwear, safety glasses, high-visibility vest (estimated cost - $100.00).

Contact hours

lectures face-face and online
site visits: 2 hours per week every alternate week
seminars: 2 hours per week

Note

Students must have a certified protective work helmet and appropriate clothing, including hard-capped safety footwear and safety glasses to be worn during site visits. Enrolled students can access unit materials via the LMS (Learning Management System).

Statutes

National Construction Code (NCC) and Australian Standards

The NCC regulates the design and construction of buildings in Australia. The NCC references more than 120 Australian Standards. Copies of all Australian Standards are available online via the Education, Fine Arts and Architecture (EDFAA) Library. The electronic copy of the NCC in EDFAA also contains links to the standards referenced in the NCC.