> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.archlogbook.co/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.archlogbook.co/01-industry-basics/design-and-coordination-basics.md). # Design & Coordination Basics
Often times, you will need to work with the project engineers across disciplines on a wide variety of design and coordination issues. Below is an overview of the many design considerations that require both architects and engineers to work out together: ## Architecture & Structure Checking for consistency with design of structural elements and external works in relation to architectural design requirements Aspects: * Structural elements - Types of walls, parapet/kerbs, floor, columns, roofs, beams, railings * Dimensions - Headroom, clear width & height, thickness, setting out, storey height, beam depth & column sizes * Openings - for doors, windows * External works - driveways, drainage, detention tank, entrance culvert, slopes, retaining walls, levels. ## Architecture & Mechanical Checking for consistency with design of fire safety provision, sanitary/sewerage, gas/water as well as ventilation provision in relation to architectural design requirements. Aspects: * Ventilation - Types of Mechanical Ventilation, Ducting layout, Air conditioning * Sanitary/Sewerage Layout * Water - Domestic tank and supply * Fire protection - Sprinkler provision, smoke purging/extraction, hosereel, hydrant, fire pumps * Gas - pipe layout, incoming location ## Architecture & Electrical Checking for consistency with design of equipment location, lighting provision and lighting protection among other building services in relation to architectural design requirements. Aspects: * Electricity - Substation Design, Lead in, Drawpit * Lighting - Fitting type, illuminance, temperature, lux, positions based on false ceiling layout * Fire safety - Exit Light/Sign, emergency lighting, voice comms, fire alarm panels * Cable/switch types, location & layout - eg. office layout * Fibre optics - Internet * Telephone line * Security systems - CCTV * Lightning Protection System The list above is non exhaustive. *** Architects need to collaborate and prepare the necessary information for effective design: * Site plans with site boundary, buffers, driveway and building layout * Fire plans - locations of hydrants, fire rated walls/compartments * Combined services design layout (CSD) - Underground, high level at all storeys, roof plans * Plans, sections, elevations of buildings * Typical details * Survey plans - with all existing site information (public drains, infrastructure) * Any other relevant design and compliance requirements With tight design collaboration and coordination upstream during a building project, there will lesser issues during construction 🚧. So do not ignore your engineer and blindly assume the design can be built!