CMA Architectural Design and Patterns 2

Question 1

In pattern language theory, what does Christopher Alexander mean by a 'living structure'?

Accepted Answer

A structure with properties of wholeness that supports human life and activity

Answer

A building that uses biophilic materials

Answer

A net-zero energy building with integrated ecosystems

Answer

A modular system capable of structural self-repair

Question 2

Which architectural parti approach is BEST suited to a civic building that must balance monumental presence with pedestrian-scale accessibility?

Accepted Answer

A hierarchical composition with a dominant mass and articulated base

Answer

A pure platonic solid with a single ceremonial entrance

Answer

A repetitive curtain-wall grid to express democratic openness

Answer

A fragmented deconstructivist form to reject hierarchy

Question 3

The 'served and servant spaces' concept developed by Louis Kahn is BEST illustrated by which of the following building types?

Accepted Answer

Richards Medical Research Laboratories with distinct utility towers

Answer

A glass curtain-wall office tower

Answer

A post-and-beam barn structure

Answer

A Miesian open-plan pavilion

Question 4

When designing a mixed-use urban infill building, the 'figure-ground' analysis primarily helps the architect understand:

Accepted Answer

The relationship between built mass and open space in the urban fabric

Answer

The structural load path from roof to foundation

Answer

The ratio of rentable to gross floor area

Answer

The solar access angles for adjacent buildings

Question 5

A 'thick wall' strategy in architectural design refers to:

Accepted Answer

Embedding programmatic functions and transition spaces within the wall zone itself

Answer

Using masonry walls thicker than 12 inches for seismic resistance

Answer

Insulating walls to exceed energy code requirements by 200%

Answer

Doubling the wall assembly to create an acoustic buffer

Question 6

In processional sequence design, 'compression and release' is a technique that:

Accepted Answer

Creates spatial drama by contrasting low/narrow spaces with tall/expansive ones

Answer

Alternates structural spans to reduce material use

Answer

Regulates HVAC pressure across zones of different occupancy

Answer

Compresses project schedules by overlapping design phases

Question 7

Which of the following BEST describes the design principle of 'articulation' in architectural composition?

Accepted Answer

The clear expression of individual building parts and their joins at the facade or section

Answer

The verbal communication of design intent to a client

Answer

The acoustic treatment of performance spaces

Answer

The written description of materials in a specification