"I think the next challenge for Ireland is not about house building but about remediating a lot of mistakes made at all scales, from regional planning down to house design. Architects should be leading the way and demonstrating how the green agenda can become a very attractive way of thinking about architecture. If we stick to the elements of architecture - light, form and space - and look to the sun as a 'planet' that almost gives life, we can find very interesting ways of using light. You can argue that the bulk of housing stock in Ireland took no cognizance of orientation; where the kitchen area was facing - simple things like that coincide with architecture and green design. A lot of these things were forgotten and not questioned, probably because we got used to the idea of being able to cancel out poor orientation with heating. Discuss the above statement in detail and propose three guidelines that would help create more environmentally sustainable housing in Ireland.

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"I think the next challenge for Ireland is not about house building but about remediating a lot of mistakes made at all scales, from regional planning down to house design - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 10 - 2009

Question 10

"I think the next challenge for Ireland is not about house building but about remediating a lot of mistakes made at all scales, from regional planning down to house ... show full transcript

Worked Solution & Example Answer:"I think the next challenge for Ireland is not about house building but about remediating a lot of mistakes made at all scales, from regional planning down to house design - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 10 - 2009

Step 1

Discussion of the Statement - Point 1

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Answer

The statement highlights the significant disconnect between architectural practice and environmental sustainability in Ireland. Many housing designs ignore natural elements, such as sunlight and orientation, which are crucial for energy efficiency. By focusing on these factors, architects can create spaces that naturally harness light and reduce reliance on artificial heating, leading to lower energy consumption.

Step 2

Discussion of the Statement - Point 2

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Furthermore, the critique of past housing stock emphasizes a systematic oversight in planning. This reveals a need for architects to advocate for better integration of environmental considerations in their designs. Architects must reconsider their role, moving beyond traditional planning to incorporate green technologies and sustainable materials that resonate with modern ecological needs.

Step 3

Discussion of the Statement - Point 3

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Finally, the emphasis on light, form, and space aligns with the principles of biophilic design, which seeks to connect occupants with nature. By rethinking housing with these elements, architects can contribute to not only the environmental sustainability of buildings but also improve the psychological well-being of residents, fostering spaces that promote health and productivity.

Step 4

Guideline 1

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Incorporate orientation and natural light: Housing designs should prioritize orientation to maximize natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting and heating. Architects can achieve this by strategically placing windows on sun-facing walls.

Step 5

Guideline 2

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Utilize sustainable materials: Housing should be constructed with eco-friendly materials that minimize environmental impact. This includes using recycled materials and sustainably sourced timber, which not only reduces resource depletion but also enhances the building's overall sustainability.

Step 6

Guideline 3

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Implement green technologies: Integrate renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines, into housing designs. This can significantly lower energy costs and reduce carbon footprints, aligning housing development with sustainability goals.

"I think the next challenge for Ireland is not about house building but about remediating a lot of mistakes made at all scales, from regional planning down to house design - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 10 - 2009

Worked Solution & Example Answer:"I think the next challenge for Ireland is not about house building but about remediating a lot of mistakes made at all scales, from regional planning down to house design - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 10 - 2009

Discussion of the Statement - Point 1

Discussion of the Statement - Point 2

Discussion of the Statement - Point 3

Guideline 1

Guideline 2

Guideline 3

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