Architecture Technology: Structure and Surface unit (KDA245)

Launceston

Introduction

Bachelor of Architecture and Built Environments Architecture Technology units focus on establishing key concepts and principles related to the physical facts of architecture and human experience of these facts. At Intermediate level, these units develop focused knowledge and skills at key intersections between materiality and human inhabitation. Architecture Technology: Structure and Surface focuses on the development of core knowledge and skills in structures and construction. You will apply foundational knowledge of structural principles and systems to the design of building structures and surfaces emphasising the relationship to design intent and environmental sustainability, including design approaches for different climate types. Through lectures, workshops, self-directed activities and site visits you will gain understanding of structural systems for different building types and scales, the technical and environmental performance of materials, construction elements and building components and the requirements of relevant building standards. You will also be introduced to techniques and professional conventions of technical documentation and apply this knowledge in the detailed design and communication of construction detailing for building structures and surfaces.

Summary

Unit name	Architecture Technology: Structure and Surface
Unit code	KDA245
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Architecture and Design
Discipline	Architecture & Design
Coordinator	Doctor Peter Booth
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Intermediate

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Launceston	Semester 1

Note

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Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 1	22/2/2026	16/3/2026	19/4/2026	13/6/2026

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• Investigate structural systems, materials, and building components with reference to performance characteristics and Construction Code requirements.
• Integrate structural systems, materials, and building components in accordance with industry practice.
• Justify the selection of structural systems, materials, and building components in relation to design intent, building scale and envelope performance.
• Produce technical documentation to communicate construction detailing for building structural systems, materials, and building components.

Fee Information

Field of Education	Commencing Student Contribution 1,3	Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3	Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3	Domestic Full Fee 4
040101	$1,192.00	$1,192.00	not applicable	$2,919.00

• Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
• HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility³
• FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility⁴

¹ Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
² Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
³ Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
⁴ Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Prerequisites

KDA139 and KDA141

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	12 x weekly 60-minute lectures, 12 x weekly 180-minute workshops
Assessment	Built Case Study Analysis (25%)|Design, Model & Detail Conceptual Form (30%)|Construction Detailing and Communication: AT2 Evolved (45%)
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.