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

Setbacks are mandatory minimum distances between a building and property lines, rights-of-way, or other features, controlling building placement to ensure light, air, privacy, and fire separation.

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

FAR is the total gross floor area of all building stories divided by the total area of the lot, used by zoning codes to control building density and massing.

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

Slope analysis maps the gradient of terrain across a site by calculating percent slope from contour intervals, identifying areas suitable for construction, roads, or conservation.

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

The ADA (1990) and its 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design mandate accessible routes connecting parking, transit, entrances, and site elements for public and commercial facilities.

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

A bioswale is a vegetated channel that slows stormwater runoff, allows infiltration, and filters pollutants through plants and engineered soil before water reaches storm drains or natural water bodies.

BArch Bachelor of Architecture Practice Test

BArch Bachelor of Architecture Practice Test

BArch Bachelor of Architecture Site Planning & Urban Design