Code Solutions

By Vince Burdi

As defined in the Illinois Practice Act of 1989, "The practice of architecture is declared to affect the public health, safety and welfare and to be subject to regulation and control in the public interest." With this in mind I would like to discuss the importance of building code and its place in the architectural environment.

At first glance, code review may seem like an overwhelming and tedious task, which it can be at times. As you get involved with a project, codes can become more demanding and even require you to redesign certain portions of your design. This often leads to frustrating visits to clients, departments of zoning, a boss, etc. Codes are not here to make your life hard, but if this happens during a project, take a second and step back. As an architect it is important to remember the final product of your building. Codes can help you see the light in this respect. Codes should not be forced into the design of a building, but instead encourage us to think of ways to incorporate systems, technology, and other tools which we study in our education.

Codes have a reputation for dictating how architects, engineers, contractors, anyone in the respected building profession builds and occupies space. However, codes can and should act as guides helping us understand the spaces we our designing for. Building codes have been tested and used in previous buildings before us. The variations in codes exist because architecture is an evolving trade. There is not always one solution fits all. Which is an interesting fact of the code review, which it is interpretive. What may apply in one situation may not apply to another. There is always some new form of building technology that will challenge or compliment our designs. For this reason we can only guarantee that code changes are to satisfy the health, safety, and welfare of the public. Remember, this is why architecture is regarded as a profession. We need to take responsibility for the people that will ultimately occupy our space. Building codes help architects find solutions, not prevent them.