Image courtesy of Yarra Valley & Ranges country life
We see the building surveyor’s challenge as measuring compliance whilst respecting the Architect’s vision for a whole range of other functional and aesthetic objectives. The Building Regulations don’t, and probably, never will deal with these aspects of the design.
BDC Building Design Compliance recently met John Henry Architect through our marketing to prospective Architect clients in the eastern region of Melbourne. Looking around John’s garden from the entry to his office (on the site above the dwelling) we discussed the beauty of his native garden. We had no idea of the interesting dwelling hidden behind the rear facade of the building at the lower end of the allotment! In Issue 2 of Yarra Valley & ranges Country Life (Autumn 2010 edition) this house by John Henry Architect is featured with a beautiful full page spread of a fascinating dwelling.
For building surveyors some of the aesthetic elements of Architect designs may include minimalist and elegant features that challenge us to verify conformance with the Building Regulations. Even the wording of some of the performance requirements in the BCA may create an initial challenge.
So how do I as a building surveyor “creatively” integrate the measurement of compliance with the Architect’s functional and aesthetic vision?
- First we measure compliance against the DTS provisions in the Building Code of Australia – these provide a comparative benchmark;
- Identify any variations / constraints / limitations of the regulatory framework;
- Then we measure compliance against the performance requirements – this allows us to characterise the building and its occupants / use / function far more specifically to a design;
- If it does not comply with the performance requirements there is always a modification to the Building Appeals Board;
- Then our secret weapon! If all else fails, we may issue a Building Notice and accept (subject to due consideration) the Architects / Owner’s representations that the design provides the appropriate health / safety and amenity for the occupants / community etc.
Do you have a challenging and interesting design where BDC Building Design Compliance can assist. Call us now on 1300 791 602.
Tags: BCA, Building Codes, Building Regulations