Residential Structures unit (ENG418)

Introduction

This unit equips students with the fundamental knowledge and practical skills required to design and analyse residential structures in compliance with Australian Standards, including AS 2870 (slabs and footings), AS 1684 (timber structures), AS 4055 (wind loads for housing), AS 4100 (steel structures), AS 4773 (masonry in small buildings), and AS 3700 (masonry structures). Students will apply structural analysis, material selection, and construction detailing techniques to ensure structural integrity, serviceability, and regulatory compliance in residential buildings. 

Students will explore climate resilience and sustainable building practices, including life-cycle analysis, material optimisation, and carbon footprint reduction. An emphasis is placed on Building Information Modelling (BIM) as a tool for enhancing design accuracy, collaboration, and sustainability in modern construction

This unit builds upon Structural Mechanics, where students learn foundational concepts of forces, stresses, and structural stability, and complements Steel and Timber Structures, where students explore material behaviour and detailing techniques. Additionally, it integrates with Reinforced Concrete Structures, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of material selection and design for residential applications. 

Through progressive design projects, students will develop the ability to apply industry standards, optimise construction materials, and design efficient residential structures that meet sustainability and climate adaptation goals.

Summary

Unit name	Residential Structures
Unit code	ENG418
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Engineering
Discipline	Engineering
Coordinator	Doctor Assaad Taoum
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Honours

Availability

Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August

Learning Outcomes

• Analyse and apply Australian Standards to the design of residential structures, ensuring structural integrity and regulatory compliance
• Design and detail residential building structural components to relevant Australian standards and current building practices
• Incorporate sustainable principles and practices that address climate change challenges and ensure efficient use of materials

Fee Information

2027 fee information will be available in August.

Requisites

Prerequisites

ENG317 Reinforced Concrete Structures|ENG318 Steel and Timber Structures

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	2 hour lecturer per week + 2 hour tutorial per week
Assessment	AT4 - Design Project Part 3 (30%)|AT3 - Design Project Part 2 (35%)|Design Project part 1 (35%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.