Design, Build and construction terminology
GLOSSARY - A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z.
A
Architectural Rendering
Also known as photo-real renderings, complex 3d modeling and rendering software are used to create life-like images. These are produced for presentation, marketing and design analysis purposes.
B
BS - British Standards
The British Standards are produced by BSI British Standards, a division of BSI Group. Products and services, which BSI certifies as having met the requirements of specific standards within designated schemes, are awarded the Kitemark.
BIM - Building Information Modeling
The process of generating and managing building data during its life cycle. 3D real-time, dynamic building modeling software increases productivity and accuracy throughout the building design and construction phases. The use of a single building model to extract building data ensures that all general arrangement drawings are coordinated. Sun shadow studies and plugin Eco-design software allows early building analysis.
BRE - Building Research Establishment
The BRE Trust Companies, BRE and BRE Global, are world leading research, consultancy, training, testing and certification organizations delivering sustainability and innovation across the built environment and beyond.
C
CAD - Computer Aided Design
The use of computer technology to aid in the design and particularly the drafting of a part or product, including entire buildings. It is both a visual and symbol-based method of communication. CAD Design has been evolving over many years and many architects and building designers are focusing on the use of BIM.
CDM - Construction Design and Management
The new CDM 2007 Regulations are about focusing attention on effective planning and management of construction projects, from design concept onwards. The aim is for health and safety considerations to be treated as a normal part of a project’s development, not an after thought or bolt on extra.
CIAT - Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists
Internationally recognized as the qualifying body for Chartered Architectural Technologists (MCIAT) and Architectural Technicians (TCIAT).
CIOB - Chartered Institute of Building
Chartered members are amongst the most highly regarded professionals working throughout the international construction industry. Membership represents the wide diversity of roles within the construction industry and promotes the delivery of high work standards and values.
D
DDA (Disability Discrimination Act) access
The Disability Discrimination act is legislation that is in place to promote civil rights for disabled people and protect disabled people from discrimination.
E
Ecobuild
Ecobuild started life in September 2004 as a small ‘green building’ conference alongside another event at The Truman Brewery in London’s Brick Lane. Almost immediately it developed a following amongst pioneering architects and designers and attracted a small community of suppliers of innovative sustainable construction products. Ecobuild is organized by International Business Events (IBE) Limited.
EPC - Energy Performance Certificate
Ratings that compare the current efficiency and carbon dioxide emissions with potential figures that your house could achieve. Also figures are calculated to estimate what the energy efficiency and carbon dioxide emissions would be if energy saving measures were put in place. Further information can be found at www.direct.gov.uk
F
G
H
I
Interactive 3D real time walkthrough
The technology of walking through 3D computer models of building designs interactively and in real time utilising OpenGL, 3D and web technologies. The web based technology allow many people in multiple locations to view the model at the same time. This form of design collaboration allows the whole design team from Architect, Engineer and the Client to fully understand and explain the building project and to analyze the design before there is any start on site.
Interior Design
A profession concerned with anything that is found inside a space - walls, windows, doors, finishes, textures, light, furnishings and furniture. All of these elements are used by interior designers to develop a functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing space for a building's user.
IT - Information Technology
IT deals with the use of electronic computers and computer software to convert, store, protect, process, transmit, and securely retrieve information.
J
K
L
M
MCIAT - Member Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists
Chartered Architectural Technologists provide architectural design services and solutions. They are specialists in the science of architecture, building design and construction and form the link between concept and construction. They negotiate the construction project and manage the process from conception through to completion.
MMC - Modern Methods of Construction
Off site manufacture, timber and light gauge steel frame, prefabrication and tunnel form concrete casting offer some of the most important solutions to many of the housing and construction problems facing the UK.
N
O
P
PIR
Polyisocyanurate insulation is generally in a rigid form and most often foil faced. There are several manufacturers of PIR insulation board, two well know brands are Celotex and Kingspan.
Planning Portal
The Planning Portal is the UK Government's online planning and building regulations resource for England and Wales.
Q
R
RIBA - Royal Institute of British Architects
The UK body for architecture and the architectural profession. Providing support for its members worldwide in the form of training, technical services, publications and events, and setting standards for the education of architects, both in the UK and overseas.
S
SAP - Standard Assessment Procedure
The UK government's recommended system for measuring the energy rating of residential dwellings. Further information can be found on Wikipedia
Sun shadow study
A method to determine the location and effect of shadows generated by the sun on a proposed development.
T
U
Unitary Authority
A unitary authority is a type of local authority that has a single tier and is responsible for all local government functions within its area or performs additional functions that elsewhere in the relevant country are usually performed by national government or a higher level of sub-national government.
V
W
X
Y
Z
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