Divide into 3 groups, each to discuss and submit a single paper.
Duration: 3 Hours Total Marks: 100
Instructions: Answer any four (4) questions. All questions carry 25 marks. Sketches may be used
where appropriate. Consider these to be the exam instructions to guide how much to write for
each question. But, for revision purposes, attempt all questions.
PAPER I — FUNDAMENTALS OF ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN
1. Design Parameters
a) Define the term design parameters.
b) Discuss five key design parameters that influence building layout and form.
c) Using an example, explain how conflicting parameters can be balanced in design.
2. Aesthetics in Design
a) Explain the meaning of aesthetic value in architecture.
b) Describe four aesthetic principles (e.g., rhythm, proportion, harmony, contrast) and how they
enhance user experience.
c) Illustrate with an example of a local building that demonstrates strong aesthetic coherence.
3. Theories of Design
Compare and contrast Functionalism and Humanism in architectural design.
Discuss how each theory may guide the designer differently when developing a community
library.
4. Form and Function
a) Explain the phrase “Form follows function.”
b) Identify three ways in which building form can influence internal space usage.
c) Give two examples where function has dictated form and two where form has dominated
function.
5. Orientation and Climatic Control
Using diagrams, show how building orientation can enhance thermal comfort, daylighting, and
natural ventilation.
Discuss how the same principle can differ between hot–dry and warm–humid climates.
6. Data Collection & Design Standards
Outline the steps in formulating a design brief for a residential building.
Explain the relevance of space standards in ensuring user comfort and efficiency.
7. Energy Conservation
Discuss five ways in which energy conservation principles can be applied in site planning and
building design for sustainable outcomes.
PAPER II — APPLICATION OF ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN PRINCIPLES
1. Design Parameters
Using a hypothetical plot (60 × 100 ft), identify and discuss the design parameters you would
consider before designing a family house.
Include site, user, legal, and environmental factors.
2. Aesthetics
Evaluate the role of aesthetic balance and scale in modern low-cost housing schemes.
Propose three strategies to improve aesthetics without raising costs.
3. Theories of Design
Discuss how Gestalt theory and Vitruvian theory can contribute to architectural composition and
human perception of space.
4. Building Form and Function
Analyze the relationship between form, structure, and function using any public building (e.g.,
hospital or school) as a case study.
5. Orientation and Climatic Control
Designers in tropical regions often use orientation to improve comfort.
Describe five methods of climatic control and their architectural implications.
6. Data Collection & Design Brief
Outline the steps of data collection for a community hall project.
Discuss how this information is transformed into a functional design brief and space layout.
7. Energy Conservation
Explain how energy efficiency can be achieved through:
a) Proper site zoning
b) Building materials selection
c) Shading and envelope design
PAPER III — INTEGRATED DESIGN AND CONTEXTUAL THINKING
1. Design Parameters
Identify the primary and secondary parameters that should guide the design of a multipurpose
community centre.
Explain how each parameter affects design outcome.
2. Aesthetics in Design
Discuss how cultural values and symbolism influence aesthetics in architectural design.
Illustrate with examples from Ugandan or African architecture.
3. Theories of Design
Choose any two architectural design theories studied and demonstrate how their principles can
be combined in a single design project.
4. Building Form and Function
Critically discuss the interdependence of form, structure, and technology in the evolution of
contemporary architecture.
Use examples to support your answer.
5. Orientation, Climate & Design Process
Describe the design process step-by-step from initial idea to final presentation.
Highlight where climatic considerations influence decisions at each stage.
6. Question 6 – Design Standards, Environmental Context & Brief
a) Explain how design standards and space requirements ensure functionality.
b) Discuss how contextual factors (space, time, culture) affect spatial planning in architectural
design.
7. Question 7 – Energy Conservation
Propose five energy-conscious design strategies suitable for low-income housing in Kampala’s
peri-urban areas.
Justify their economic and environmental benefits.