Architectural Atlas: A Comprehensive Guide to Residential Construction – Series 3

6 Hours (6 LU/HSW)

(AIA-Approved Continuing Education Course)

Course Description

This advanced course provides architects with an integrated understanding of the key systems that define performance, safety, and sustainability in residential construction. Through a comprehensive exploration of plumbing, HVAC, electrical systems, green building technologies, building-envelope science, and stair design, participants will gain the technical competency needed to incorporate these systems seamlessly into residential projects.

Learners will examine system fundamentals, code-driven requirements, energy-efficiency strategies, and best-practice detailing. Special emphasis is placed on designing durable building envelopes, optimizing insulation performance, interpreting technical drawings, and ensuring stair systems meet all structural and accessibility criteria.

This program equips ARCHITECTS with the applied knowledge necessary to design safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible homes that balance functionality, performance, and aesthetic value.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this 6-hour course, participants will be able to:

1. Integrating Plumbing & HVAC Systems into Residential Design

• Gain an understanding of core plumbing and HVAC principles and their influence on architectural design.

• Apply energy-efficient and sustainable system strategies that support high-performance homes.

• Identify system coordination requirements between mechanical layouts and architectural spaces.

2. Applying Electrical Systems & Green Building Technology

• Understand essential components of residential electrical distribution and protection.

• Integrate renewable-energy technologies and high-efficiency electrical systems into residential designs.

• Recognize how sustainable systems enhance building performance and occupant well-being.

3. Mastering Building Envelope Design & Science

• Develop technical knowledge of moisture management, vapor control, insulation, and thermal-performance strategies.

• Understand how building-envelope failures occur and how to prevent them through sound design.

• Evaluate envelope assemblies for energy efficiency, durability, and climate-appropriate performance.

4. Optimizing Insulation for Energy Conservation

• Select appropriate insulation types based on thermal performance, moisture conditions, sustainability, and cost.

• Apply insulation strategies that improve interior comfort and reduce long-term energy consumption.

• Explore emerging high-performance insulation materials and technologies.

5. Analyzing & Interpreting Building Envelope Drawings

• Read, interpret, and evaluate construction drawings related to envelope assemblies.

• Identify detailing issues that affect performance, durability, and air/water control.

• Ensure design compliance with building codes, standards, and best-practice guidelines.

6. Designing Code-Compliant & Accessible Residential Stairs

• Understand rise, run, headroom, landing dimensions, and load requirements for residential stair systems.

• Apply accessibility and safety standards to stair design.

• Integrate stairs into residential layouts with both functional and aesthetic considerations.

Who This Course Is Designed For

All hours are fully recognized for AIA LU/HSW credit and support competency development for:

① AIA Members

• AIA Architect Members

• AIA Associate Members

② Licensed & Regulated Professionals

• Licensed Architects

• Interior Designers (IDCEC / ASID / IIDA)

③ Architectural Technology & Design Teams

• Architectural Technologists

• Senior Technologists

• Architectural Designers

• Intern / Graduate Architects

• BIM Technicians / Coordinators

• Drafting Technicians

④ Construction & Project Delivery Teams

• Construction Managers

• Design-Build Contractors

• Project Managers

• Site Supervisors

• Residential Builders

• Developers & Technical Staff

⑤ Specialized Consultants

• Building Code Consultants

• Planning Consultants

• Building Envelope Consultants

• Structural Engineers

• Energy Modelling / Sustainability Consultants

• Passive House / Net-Zero Specialists

Course Purpose

The goal of this program is not to overwhelm learners with unnecessary technical detail, but to provide practical, actionable knowledge that strengthens architectural judgment and supports the delivery of safer, more efficient, and higher-performing residential projects.