Do You Need Physics For Architecture UK?
Architecture is a discipline that requires a variety of skills, knowledge and understanding. It is an applied artistic discipline as well as an applied science. Architecture involves the manipulation of spatial form, which is closely related to the study of physics. Physics enable architects to understand the physical processes and to design with consideration for environmental and climatic impacts.
When aiming to practice Architecture in the UK, there are certain qualifications that must be held in order to be recognised by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). Despite the level of importance typically placed on mathematics and physics as a fundamental skill set for prospective architects, the RIBA’s minimum entry requirements do not stipulate any specific physics qualification in order to practice Architecture in the UK.
At the core of physics is an in-depth understanding of how matter and energy interact with each other and the environment. This knowledge is essential to the design process, and it informs one’s selection of materials, energy sources and structural components. Physics also provides insight into the manipulation of light and sound within a space and how they affect the overall mood and feel of the architecture, as well as the user’s wellbeing.
An architect must not only be able to apply physical principles to their work, but also be able to understand the implications of that work on the environment. They must be able to predict the thermal performance, energy efficiency and sustainability of their designs. Physics provides the necessary tools for architects to achieve this, as it allows them to make informed decisions about potential risks and benefits associated with their designs.
The majority of UK universities which offer Architecture degrees have some form of physics-related module in their courses. Physics is seen as a key component of the Architecture degree and it offers students an opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the physical environment, for example in modules such as Building Physics and Structural Mechanics.
Architects also have the opportunity to gain professional qualifications in physics-related areas, such as energy assessment qualifications. This provides them with a comprehensive understanding of the underlying principles of energy efficiency within the built environment.
In conclusion, while physics is not a core requirement for a practising architect in the UK, it is undoubtedly an invaluable asset to hold. It offers a deeper insight into the physical aspects of architecture, enabling architects to work safely and sustainably.
Professional Qualifications
Thermal performance and sustainable design are some of the most important considerations when communicating and constructing a building. Professional qualifications are available to those who want to become more knowledgeable in how to improve the energy efficiency of buildings.
The UK government offers a range of qualifications including Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) qualifications and Sustainable Energy Assessor qualifications. Obtaining one of these qualifications enables professionals to better understand the principles of energy efficiency within a building, providing them with the skills needed to communicate with other stakeholders in the industry and to provide advice to clients on changes that can be made to their building to improve its energy efficiency.
EPC qualifications are offered by the Home Quality Mark (HQM), the BRE Global (BREEAM) and the Passivhaus Institute. These qualifications provide insight into the energy efficiency of a building and how to improve it. They also provide knowledge on thermodynamic principles, air pressure and airtightness, as well as knowledge of the design of solar systems, controllable ventilation systems and other components that are important for achieving a building’s energy efficiency.
Sustainable Energy Assessor qualifications enable architects to provide advice to clients on renewable energy solutions. The examinations are completed by the National Energy Services (NES) and involve an assessment of the practical elements of renewable energy technology, such as solar water heating, heat pumps and biomass.
Environmental Considerations
The built environment is not only affected by physical processes, but by environmental factors too. It is the responsibility of an architect to consider factors that could impinge on the design, such as air pollution, noise pollution and light pollution. Having a fundamental knowledge of physics is essential to ensure that these factors are accounted for and that the design will minimise their effect.
Air pollution is a growing problem within cities, and therefore an important consideration when designing a building. The physics of air pollution include an understanding of air resistance and the movement of gases. It is essential for an architect to know how to ventilate a building in order to reduce the effects of air pollution.
Noise pollution, such as traffic noise and aircraft noise, is another environmental factor which must be considered in the design of a building. Physics-related knowledge is necessary to understand how sound behaves in different structures and environments, and how it can be mitigated. For example, it is important to understand the use of acoustic materials and their effect on sound reverberation and absorption.
The manipulation of light is also an important design skill, and it relies on the understanding of physics. Architects must understand the fundamentals of optics and reflectance when designing living and working spaces, as well as outdoor spaces. Natural light is essential for a good working environment, and it is important to consider the source and direction of light when designing a building.
Benefit to Sustainability
The understanding of physics is increasingly necessary in order to design with sustainability in mind. The design of an energy efficient building relies on an understanding of energy transfer and insulation properties.
The use of sustainable materials is a crucial part of designing a sustainable building. Buildings should be designed to minimise the need for energy and materials, and to reduce their overall environmental impact. In order to achieve this, it is important to understand the physics of materials. This includes an understanding of the insulation quality of a material, its durability, and its environmental impact.
The use of renewable energy technologies is a key factor in the sustainability of a building. Architects must understand the fundamentals of renewable energy generation and storage in order to incorporate it successfully into their designs. Physics-based knowledge is necessary to understand the workings of the technology and its potential impact on a building.
The incorporation of green infrastructure is becoming increasingly popular in the construction industry. Green infrastructure, such as vertical gardens and green walls, provide an aesthetically pleasing addition to a building and also improve the environmental performance and user satisfaction of a building. To successfully incorporate green infrastructure into a building, an architect must understand the principles of plant physiology, as well as the physics of hydrology, water retention and soil types.
Conclusion
Physics is an invaluable asset for architects to possess, whether they are in practice in the UK or elsewhere. A successful architect must not only be creative, but must also understand the physical surroundings in order to create functional and sustainable buildings. Physics offers architects an understanding of the physical environment, of energy efficiency and of how buildings interact with the environment. This knowledge is an essential foundation for architects who wish to practice Architecture in the UK, or around the world.
