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6. (a) Using notes and freehand sketches, discuss the importance of each of the following when siting a house sensitively in a rural landscape: - location of house in the landscape; - scale of house; - form of house; - choice of materials - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 6 - 2008
Question 6
6. (a) Using notes and freehand sketches, discuss the importance of each of the following when siting a house sensitively in a rural landscape: - location of house ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:6. (a) Using notes and freehand sketches, discuss the importance of each of the following when siting a house sensitively in a rural landscape: - location of house in the landscape; - scale of house; - form of house; - choice of materials - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 6 - 2008
Step 1
Location of house in the landscape
Answer
The location of a house within its landscape is crucial for maintaining visual harmony and ecological balance. A well-sited house should avoid obstructing scenic views and should ideally complement the natural topography. It is important to:
- Position the house in a fold or dip to enhance its presence without overwhelming the landscape.
- Retain existing trees and natural boundaries, ensuring that the house integrates seamlessly with the environment.
- Use landscaping to blend the building with the surrounding flora, while minimizing disruptions to existing ecosystems.
Step 2
Scale of house
Answer
The scale of the house in relation to its surroundings affects both its visual impact and environmental footprint. When considering scale:
- A smaller house generally has a lesser impact on the landscape. It should be proportionate to site constraints and adjacent structures.
- Avoid overly large structures that dominate the landscape, opting instead for designs that respect the local scale.
- Utilize landscape features like hedgerows and trees to soften the appearance of the house, creating a gradual transition from built to natural areas.
Step 3
Form of house
Answer
The form of the house should reflect local architectural styles, which not only preserves cultural heritage but also often aligns with environmental considerations. The design aspects to consider include:
- Emphasizing vertical lines to draw the eye upward while using gable roofs to maintain traditional aesthetics.
- Careful selection of roof pitch and overhangs to facilitate natural light and ventilation, reducing energy dependency.
- Integrating porches or terraces that encourage outdoor living spaces while contributing to passive solar design.
Step 4
Choice of Materials
Answer
Selecting materials that are locally sourced and sustainable aids in reducing the ecological impact of construction. Importance of material choice includes:
- Favoring natural materials like stone or timber that merge with the landscape and avoid imitation or synthetic options.
- Employing traditional finishes that wear well over time and harmonize with local styles.
- Avoiding energy-intensive production methods by utilizing materials that minimize the carbon footprint throughout their lifecycle.
Step 5
Three Features of the Design
Answer
The design illustrated in the provided drawing incorporates several features that significantly lower its environmental impact. These include:
- Multi-Purpose Kitchen and Dining Area – This space is efficiently designed, using less material while providing functionality, thereby reducing embodied energy.
- Solar Panels – Positioned to maximize sun exposure, these panels contribute to domestic hot water and minimize reliance on fossil fuels.
- Natural Ventilation – A thoughtful arrangement of windows ensures airflow throughout the building, promoting energy efficiency and minimizing electrical needs for cooling.