5.1 CONSTRUCTION SPECIFICATIONS
5.1.1 Introduction to CSI Specification System
Mick Kennedy
This lesson will introduce you to the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) system for writing technical specifications for an architectural project. Crafting comprehensive, detailed specifications is an essential part of translating a design into architecture. “Writing the Design” is not an inappropriate analogy.
The lesson will provide an understanding of the overall CSI system for Outline Specifications and explain the interrelationships between Specification Sections, and the Parts of a given Section.
Unlike construction drawings, specifications are called on to communicate the specific qualitative requirements of materials system and assembly methods, tolerances and finish qualities.
As will be presented, the language of specifications gives the architect a wide ranging and powerful tool to manage the quality of a building but also to set standards for the sustainable acquisition and use of materials as well as requiring healthy, inclusive and equitable working conditions for the workers involved in a building’s construction.
Often shunted aside by young architects as tedious work, the mature architect quickly realizes the power of specifications to precisely define design intentions and to accurately guide them to fruition.
5.1.2 Exercise Intro: Specifications…Organizational Logic and Development
This exercise has been cancelled for Winter 2023 Semester.
Mick Kennedy
This lesson introduces your exercise in developing an Outline Specification for your studio project. It provides step-by-step instructions for setting up an outline and understanding the relationship between the Spec Sections for a comprehensive description of your project.
In coordination with your Wall Section drawings, you will be asked to further expand on your outline with a few Spec Sections related to your facade system design. This will give you valuable experience in developing the three Parts of a Spec Section and expose you to their real power in communicating both design intentions and ethical practices of construction.