Outdoor Amenities: Essential in Today’s Architectural Designs

Over the past few decades, exterior building spaces and roofs have significantly transformed from utilitarian systems to spaces and systems with highly programmed, environmentally conscious, people-friendly amenities that promote healthier lifestyles. A variety of products and materials can be utilized in the design and construction of roof gardens, decks and outdoor amenity spaces. This course will review the construction of basic types of on-grade and roof systems, as well as the range of hardscaping products including pavers, slabs and retaining walls, that are available to designers.

Learning Objectives:

Explain the evolution of roof ballast systems to outdoor amenity spaces and discuss how these areas can benefit the environment, human health and well-being.

Identify the basic types of systems available for on-grade and rooftop applications.

Evaluate the materials used in amenity space design in terms of their structural performance, durability, and sustainability and explore the customization options for concrete tiles and slabs.

Identify key sustainability criteria (SITES® and LEED® rating systems) for roof decking systems and outdoor amenity spaces and discuss how the arrangement of hardscape and planting on the roof deck can achieve a harmonious connection to the interior building amenities.

Credits: 1 AIA LU/HSW; 1 AIBD P-CE; 0.1 ICC CEU; 0.1 IACET CEU