This week, we have been immersed in a whirlwind of educational design activities that have both challenged and expanded our understanding of sustainable construction. From technical lectures to hands-on tutorials, the journey has been inspiring.Mechanical Systems: Backbone of Sustainable Construction

Our week kicked off with an engaging lecture on Mechanical Systems by Professor L. Carl Fiocchi. Mechanical systems are part of the backbone of any building, ensuring occupant comfort, functionality, and efficiency. Professor Fiocchi’s expertise stood out as he explained the intricacies of integrating these systems into sustainable design. His emphasis on the importance of achieving energy efficiency and reducing carbon footprints resonated with the team, as we prepare to apply these principles in our UMDB Project.

AutoCAD: Crafting Precision and Detail

Professor Naomi Darling brought us another invaluable Autodesk AutoCAD tutorial. As we dove into the design software’s capabilities, we learned how to translate our ideas into precise digital representations for inclusion in our construction documents. With xrefs in AutoCAD, the linking of drawings to one another keeps everyone in the loop on changes and updates and allows teams to work on linked drawings without conflicting with one another. Professor Darling’s approach has empowered us to create a comprehensive document flow with our detailed plans, sections, and elevations for our project.

Design Finalization: Turning Visions into Drawings

The latter part of the week was dedicated to finalizing our designs and setting up our working groups for the project. This phase was a testament to our growth in developing concept designs for small homes, as we refine our schematic design, and Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) System selections into practical, buildable plans. Instructor desk critiques provided constructive feedback, pushing us to consider every aspect of our designs – in this design challenge it is incredible to see how important inches matter.

Carbon Modeling Workshop: Climate Responsibility

Finally, we wrapped up the week with a workshop on Carbon Modeling led by Diana Brito Picciotto. This session was particularly eye-opening, as we explored the tools and techniques for assessing the carbon impact of our designs. Understanding the carbon footprint of building materials and construction methods is crucial in our quest to create environmentally responsible architecture.

Reflections and Looking Ahead

As we reflect on this week’s activities, it is clear that the UMDB Program is not just about designing and constructing buildings; it is about constructing a better future. Each lecture, tutorial, and workshop brings our team closer to becoming architects and builders who can make a tangible difference in the fight against climate change.

As we look forward to the remainder of the semester, we are excited to continue this journey of learning and discovery. With the foundation laid this week, we’re ready to tackle the challenges ahead as a team and contribute to a more sustainable world, one building at a time.