BArch Bachelor of Architecture Site Planning & Urban Design

Question 1

What is the purpose of a setback requirement in US zoning codes?

Accepted Answer

Establish minimum distances buildings must be placed from property lines or streets

Answer

Define the maximum building height allowed on a parcel

Answer

Specify the minimum lot coverage percentage

Answer

Regulate the number of dwelling units per acre

Question 2

In site design, what does 'floor area ratio' (FAR) measure?

Accepted Answer

Ratio of total building floor area to total lot area

Answer

Percentage of the lot covered by impervious surfaces

Answer

Height-to-width ratio of the building

Answer

Ratio of parking spaces to building area

Question 3

Which type of contour map analysis helps architects identify slopes too steep for building construction on a site?

Accepted Answer

Slope analysis

Answer

Soil percolation test

Answer

Sun path analysis

Answer

Watershed delineation

Question 4

What US federal law most directly governs the design of accessible pedestrian routes and paths of travel on a site?

Accepted Answer

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Answer

Fair Housing Act

Answer

Rehabilitation Act Section 504

Answer

OSHA standards

Question 5

In sustainable site design, what is a bioswale primarily used for?

Accepted Answer

Filter and slow stormwater runoff using vegetation and soil

Answer

Provide irrigation water storage for landscaping

Answer

Create wildlife habitat corridors only

Answer

Reduce solar heat gain on paved surfaces

Question 6

What does 'mixed-use zoning' allow in US municipalities?

Accepted Answer

Multiple land uses (residential, commercial, retail) within the same building or district

Answer

Only residential and light industrial uses together

Answer

Unlimited building height in commercial zones

Answer

Override of setback requirements for corner lots