Building Code I

Building codes establish classifications on occupancy and types of construction in order to define principles that will provide further guidelines in egress and safety. In this week’s class, we will begin reviewing the international building code, specifically Chapter 3 - Occupancy Classification and Use, Chapter 5 - General Building Heights and Areas, and Chapter 6 - Types of Construction. We will review the overall principles that determine how to architects can start making these decisions and the influence they have on one another.

Lecture

Lecture Recording
Lecture PDF
Attendance Quiz

Learning Check + Assignment

W5 Learning Check

Due 11:59pm - 02/8/2026

Sign Up Sheet
Assignment 03

Due 11:59 pm - 02/15/2026 (grace period 1 week)

Assignment template

Resources

International Building Code

Chapter 3 - Occupancy classification
Chapter 4 - SPecial Requirements
Chapter 5 - Building Heights & Areas
Chapter 6 - Construction Types
2021 IBC (International Building Code)
UL Listings

Michigan Building Code

2015 Michigan Building Code
2015 Michigan Residential Code

Readings

Building Codes Illustrated
Architect's Studio Companion