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6. The elevation and ground floor plan of a house are shown - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 6 - 2015
Question 6
6. The elevation and ground floor plan of a house are shown. The house has three bedrooms and a bathroom upstairs. The external walls are of timber frame constructio... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:6. The elevation and ground floor plan of a house are shown - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 6 - 2015
Step 1
Using notes and freehand sketches, discuss three features of the design that ensure that the house has low environmental impact.
Answer
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Reduced External Surface Area: The design of the house features a two-story structure, which minimizes the external surface area compared to a single-story house. This reduction helps in lowering heat loss through the exterior walls, thereby enhancing energy efficiency.
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Efficient Solar Orientation: The house's orientation is strategically positioned to maximize the use of passive solar gain. The large south-facing windows allow natural sunlight to warm the interiors, contributing to lower heating costs during winter.
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Use of Sustainable Materials: The external walls are constructed with timber frame and rendered concrete block, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing the carbon footprint of the building. Additionally, the use of water-efficient fixtures further decreases the environmental impact.
Step 2
Using notes and freehand sketches, discuss the importance of any two of the following in designing a house to have low environmental impact: compact form
Answer
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Compact Form: A compact design minimizes the surface area exposed to the elements, thus reducing heat loss and the energy required for heating. It enhances thermal efficiency and helps in maintaining a consistent internal temperature throughout the year.
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Flexible Design: A flexible architectural approach allows the dwelling to adapt to the changing needs of its occupants. It can incorporate features that enable future modifications without extensive structural requirements, thereby reducing waste and prolonging the usefulness of the building.
Step 3
Using notes and freehand sketches, discuss the importance of any two of the following in designing a house to have low environmental impact: low maintenance
Answer
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Low Maintenance: The choice of materials and design in the house influences its long-term upkeep. A low-maintenance structure minimizes the need for frequent repairs or renovations, translating to fewer materials going to landfills and a reduction in resource consumption over time.
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Environmental Impact: A structure designed for low maintenance tends to have a less intrusive footprint in its environment, maintaining aesthetic integrity and promoting sustainable practices through prolonged usage without the need for significant updates or rebuilds.
Step 4
Discuss in detail the importance of designing nearly zero energy buildings (NZEB) for the 21st century.
Answer
Designing nearly zero energy buildings (NZEB) is critical in the 21st century for several reasons:
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Climate Change Mitigation: With the ongoing challenges posed by climate change, NZEBs play a vital role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy consumption. By utilizing renewable energy sources, these buildings significantly diminish their carbon footprints.
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Sustainable Resource Use: As the world faces growing energy scarcity, NZEBs promote the efficient use of resources. They often feature energy recovery systems and sustainable materials, ensuring reduced reliance on non-renewable resources.
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Economic Benefits: NZEBs can lead to lower energy bills due to their high efficiency and self-sustaining capabilities. Over time, the initial investments often yield significant cost savings, making them an economically sound choice.
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Health and Comfort: By prioritizing energy efficiency and resource conservation, NZEBs create healthier living environments that also contribute to occupant comfort. Improved air quality and natural lighting are hallmarks of well-designed NZEBs, further promoting the well-being of residents.