Architecture
What the exam tests
Architecture tests whether you can check a building proposal against bye-laws, life-safety, accessibility, climate and heritage requirements. Expect questions on building envelope controls, fire egress, structural/seismic safety, thermal comfort and conservation.
Core rules and concepts
- Envelope controls: setbacks, height, plot coverage, FAR and parking are checked against the applicable building bye-laws, not against a neighbouring building.
- Fire egress: exit width, travel distance, stair enclosure and number of exits depend on occupancy type and occupant load. A single staircase is acceptable only within the code’s limits.
- Accessibility: ramps generally need a gradient no steeper than 1:12, with landings; doors, corridors and sanitary facilities need turning and maneuvering space.
- Seismic safety: Pakistan is mapped into seismic zones; ductile detailing, ties and confinement matter even for small buildings.
- Climate: orientation, shading, cross-ventilation and insulation should be designed, not added later.
Worked example
A 500 m² plot has 60% coverage and a proposed FAR of 1.5, giving 750 m² gross floor area. The design shows ground-floor shops and two upper floors of flats with one staircase. Reasoning: 60% of 500 = 300 m² footprint; 750 m² over three floors means about 250 m² per floor. Check the occupancy load and travel distance: shops plus flats may require a second exit or a protected stair. Recommend a second staircase or reduced occupancy, and verify parking and ramp gradient.
Traps that cost marks
Applying residential setbacks to a commercial building; confusing plot area with covered area; ignoring exit width; missing seismic detailing; and treating a ramp as accessible when it is too steep.