Building sciences include the realistic potential for creating a structure. There are scientific laws of physics that need to be followed to create a safe and durable building. The most effective architects are those who have a working knowledge of the building sciences. Knowing what they can and can’t do allows them to build with a unique perspective. If architects didn’t understand these sciences, their designs would likely be dangerous and implausible. The building sciences define what has been proven to be safe and long lasting; however, following specific principles can allow architects a wide range of creativity in their work.
Although unique and impressive building designs are seen all over the world, there are physical limitations to how a building is built. Architectural designs rely on these stepping stones for what is realistic. A building has to conform to certain regulations in order to be structurally sound.
As an architect puts together a design, he or she utilizes building sciences as a pattern for some of the following aspects of a building:
- What materials to use
- How to integrate heating and cooling systems to provide good indoor air quality
- How to plan for electrical wiring and lighting
- How to create a structure that is both fireproof and earthquake-proof
- How to build multi-level complexes
- How and where to incorporate elevators, etc.
Understanding building sciences allows architects greater levels of creativity. Building sciences provide architects with the necessary knowledge that allows them to experiment and develop new technologies and approaches based on foundational building blocks. Instead of following basic floor plans for their structures, they’re able to follow rules and concepts that allow them to be innovative.