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CE-304 · Building Planning & Architecture/Unsolved PYQ Paper

CE-304 Building Planning and Architecture - Dec 2023 Question Paper

Under each question, How to answer lists the points an answer should cover, outlined by CampusPrep from the syllabus. Check the details against your textbook.

  1. 7 Marks
    aWhat are the key components to be include in a drawing of different types of footings used in building construction?
    How to answer
    • Types of footings (isolated, combined, strip, stepped)
    • Key components to show: dimensions, concrete grade, depth below GL
    • Reinforcement details: main and distribution bars, hook lengths, covers
    • Plan and sectional views, column starter bars, PCC bed
  2. 7 Marks
    bExplain the essential elements to be incorporated in a drawing depicting an open foundation design.
    How to answer
    • Definition of open/shallow foundation
    • Essential drawing elements: ground line, depth of foundation, dimensions of footing
    • Sub-base details (PCC, soling), slope/stepped sections
    • Reinforcement schedules, bar bending details, specifications
  3. 7 Marks
    aHow would you illustrate a raft foundation on a structural drawing, and what details are important to include?
    How to answer
    • Representation in plan and sectional elevation
    • Details: slab thickness, beam dimensions (if beam-slab raft), column positions
    • Top and bottom reinforcement grids, chair bars, cover blocks
    • PCC layer, waterproofing details, edge thickening, drainage sumps
  4. 7 Marks
    bWhat are the key factors considered in the classification of buildings, and how does it influence the design and planning process?
    How to answer
    • Factors for classification: occupancy/use (residential, commercial, industrial, etc.), fire resistance/height
    • Influence on spatial planning, zoning, and orientation
    • Impact on structural requirements, safety codes, and emergency exits
    • Influence on plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and lighting services
  5. 7 Marks
    aExplain the important provisions outlined in the National Building Codes and Rules that architects and planners must adhere to during building design.
    How to answer
    • Overview of National Building Code (NBC) sections/parts
    • Key provisions: minimum room dimensions, ceiling heights, ventilation and lighting
    • Fire and life safety requirements (means of egress, fire zones)
    • Structural design, building services, barrier-free accessibility
  6. 7 Marks
    bWhat are building bye-laws? and how do they regulate aspects like open areas, setbacks and Floor Area Ratio (FAR) in urban development?
    How to answer
    • Definition and purpose of building bye-laws
    • Regulation of open areas: light, ventilation, recreational space
    • Setbacks: front, rear, and side margins for privacy, fire safety, and street widening
    • Floor Area Ratio (FAR): formula, regulation of building density and height
  7. 7 Marks
    aExplain the principles and components of sewerage and drainage systems in building construction services and their significance for sanitation.
    How to answer
    • Fundamental principles: gravity flow, self-cleansing velocity, proper ventilation, water seal maintenance
    • Key components: soil pipe, waste pipe, vent pipe, gully traps, inspection chambers, septic tank/sewer main
    • Significance for public health and sanitation: odor prevention, disease control, hygienic disposal
  8. 7 Marks
    bDescribe the various types of sanitary fittings and fixtures commonly used in buildings, and how do they contribute to user comfort and hygiene?
    How to answer
    • Types of fixtures: Water closets (Indian, European), wash basins, kitchen sinks, urinals, bidets, bathtubs
    • Fittings: taps, flushing cisterns, traps (P, S traps), anti-siphonage pipes
    • Contribution to comfort: ergonomics, ease of cleaning, accessibility
    • Contribution to hygiene: water seal preventing sewer gases, non-absorbent surfaces
  9. 7 Marks
    aWhat are the fundamental aspects of plumbing systems in buildings, and how do they ensure the efficient distribution of water?
    How to answer
    • Aspects: water supply source, storage (overhead/underground tanks), piping network, valves, pressure control
    • Distribution types: direct system, indirect/overhead tank system, hydro-pneumatic system
    • Measures for efficiency: optimal pipe sizing, avoiding dead ends, maintaining pressure, backflow prevention
  10. 7 Marks
    bHow does color, texture, and the shapes/forms of architectural elements play a role in creating a visual impact in architecture?
    How to answer
    • Role of color: psychological effects, warmth/coolness, accentuation, spatial illusion
    • Role of texture: tactile quality, light and shadow play, roughness/smoothness, contrast
    • Role of shape/form: geometry, massing, balance, proportion, hierarchy
    • Combined effect on visual unity, aesthetics, and building character
  11. 7 Marks
    aExplore the concepts of architectural space and mass and their visual and emotional effects on occupants and visitors. How do geometric forms contribute to these effects?
    How to answer
    • Definitions of space (void) and mass (solid) in architecture
    • Visual and emotional effects: openness, grandeur, intimacy, confinement, rhythm
    • Contribution of geometric forms: stability of cubical/pyramidal forms, dynamism of curves/spheres
    • Interaction of light, void, and mass creating psychological responses
  12. 7 Marks
    bDiscuss the concept of space activity and tolerance space in architecture and how they influence the functionality and user experience of a building?
    How to answer
    • Concept of space activity (core functional space needed for specific tasks)
    • Concept of tolerance space (buffer, clearance, and anthropometric movement margins)
    • Role in spatial layout and preventing overcrowding
    • Impact on circulation, ergonomics, safety, and comfort
  13. 7 Marks
    aExplain the planning standards associated with the design and development of a traffic network, including standards for roads and paths.
    How to answer
    • Hierarchy of roads: arterial, sub-arterial, collector, and local streets
    • Design standards: Right of Way (ROW), carriageway width, camber, turning radius
    • Pedestrian paths and non-motorized transport provisions (sidewalk widths, accessibility ramps)
    • Junction design, visibility splays, and safety features
  14. 7 Marks
    bWhat are the fundamental elements of perspective drawing, and how do they contribute to creating a three-dimensional illusion on a two-dimensional surface?
    How to answer
    • Fundamental elements: station point (SP), horizon line (HL), picture plane (PP), ground line (GL), vanishing points (VP)
    • Types: one-point, two-point, and three-point perspectives
    • Mechanism of creating 3D depth: convergence of parallel lines, foreshortening, diminishing scale with distance
  15. 14 Marks
    Write a short note on any two: i) Pile foundation ii) Provisions of National Building Codes and Rules iii) Building Services iv) Acoustics of buildings
    How to answer
    • Pile foundation: deep foundation types (end-bearing, friction), applications in weak soil
    • NBC Provisions: standardized safety, structural stability, egress norms, fire zoning
    • Building Services: MEP integration (water, drainage, electrical, HVAC, firefighting)
    • Acoustics of buildings: sound reflection, absorption, reverberation time (Sabine's formula), noise control
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