Tired of "Alternative Solutions"? Let's Talk About "Right-Sized" Plans Instead

 Tired of "Alternative Solutions"? Let's Talk About "Right-Sized" Architectural Plans Instead.

"You should try an Alternative Solution." If you're a building owner facing permit delays, you've probably heard this.

But I often advise my clients to be cautious. While valuable in specific cases, alternative solutions can introduce significant cost, complexity, and risk. Why choose a difficult path when a simpler one exists?

The problem isn't always a lack of creativity—it's that the initial plans weren't "right-sized" for the project and the code.

A "Right-Sized" plan is:

- Fully Compliant using well-understood, prescriptive code paths.

- Optimized for Value, eliminating costly over-engineering that doesn't enhance safety or function.

- Designed for Approval, with clear documentation that makes the plans examiner's job easy.

My expertise is in auditing and refining your architectural drawings to achieve this. We work to:

1. Identify & remove overkill that's slowing you down.

2. Clarify the intent behind every design decision.

3. Strengthen your submission so it stands on its own merits, without needing a complicated alternative solution.

Don't pay a premium for complexity. Let's build a case for simplicity and get your project moving.

Have you had an experience where an "Alternative Solution" created more problems than it solved? Share below.

#ConstructionManagement #ValueEngineering #BuildingCode #PropertyDevelopment #CostSaving #RightSizedDesign

Important definition--Horizontal Exit

 

Important #definition--Horizontal Exit

Horizontal exit means an exit from one #building to another by means of a #doorway, #vestibule, #walkway, #bridge or #balcony.

#horizontalexit #buildingcode

Ramps

 Ramps

A ramp located in a barrier-free path of travel shall have a level area not less than 1700 mm by 1700 mm at the #top and #bottom

and at #intermediate levels of a #ramp leading to a #door, so that on the latch side the level area extends not less than

i) 600 mm beyond the edge of the door opening where the door opens towards the ramp, or

ii) 300 mm beyond the edge of the door opening where the door opens away from the ramp.

Quoted from NBC2020

#barrierfreepath #buildingcode

A-3.4.3.4. Clear Height and Width.

 A-3.4.3.4. Clear Height and Width. 

Clear height is intended to be measured from a line tangent to the nosings extended to the underside of the lowest element above the walking surface, over the clear width of the exit (see Figure A-3.4.3.4.). Examples of low elements above the walking surface include light fixtures or sprinkler heads and piping.

Clear width is intended to be measured from a line tangent to horizontal protrusions such as handrails.

Quoted from NBC2020

#clearheight #clearwidth #buildingcode #sprinklerheads #lightfixture #handrail

This article is important

3.2.3.13.2) If an unenclosed exterior exit #stair or ramp could be exposed to fire from an opening in the exterior wall of the building it serves, the opening in the exterior #wall of the building shall be protected in conformance with the requirements of Sentence (4) where the opening in the exterior wall of the building is within 3m horizontally and

a) less than 10m below the exit stair or ramp, or

b) less than 5m above the exit stair or ramp.

#exteriorexitstair #exteriorwall #exitstair #exitramp #buildingcode

Quiz

1.  A distillery plant is proposed on the main floor of a 20 storey residential building. Does this comply with the NBC2020?

a) Yes

b) No

2. A flour mill and a jail in a building are required to have:

a) 1h fire separation

b) 2h fire separation

c) 3h fire separation

d) 4h firewall

3. The required fire separation between a dry cleaning plant and a clothing store is: 

a) 1h

b) 2h

c) 3h

d) 4h

4. Noncombustible construction can be supported on combustible construction with the same fire-resistance rating.

a) true

b) false

5. Is a parapet always required for a firewall?

a) Yes

b) No

6) A closure to be installed in a 1 h fire separation needs a fire-protection rating of

a) 1 h

b) 20 min

c) 30 min

d) 45 min

🚀 Building Classification: The Soul of building Design 🏗️🔥

 🚀 Building Classification: The Soul of building Design 🏗️🔥

Did you know that building classification is the soul of building design? It dictates critical safety and cost decisions, yet many overlook its importance.

✅ Combustible construction allowed?

✅ Sprinkler system required?

✅ Fire resistance ratings for floor assemblies & load-bearing elements?

Get it right, and you save hundreds of thousands of dollars. Get it wrong, and you risk unnecessary costs.

Imagine spending $200k plus on a sprinkler system… only to later discover it wasn’t required by code. 💸

Whether you're an architect, engineer, or developer, understanding building classification isn’t just about compliance—it’s about smart, efficient design.

Have you ever encountered challenges with building classification? Share your experiences below! 👇 #Construction #BuildingDesign #FireSafety #Architecture #Engineering

🚨 A $100K Code Lesson: Why Existing Buildings Need Smart Enforcement

 🚨 A $100K Code Lesson: Why Existing Buildings Need Smart Enforcement

A recent high-rise renovation project nearly derailed over a technical code violation—until a closer look revealed a critical enforcement error. Here’s what happened:

A 1970s office tower converting to residential use was flagged because its fire hydrant sat 90m from the Fire Department Connection (FDC)—exceeding NBC 2020’s 45m rule. The inspector demanded a new $100K+ hydrant installation.

The problem?

The renovation didn’t touch the hydrant location, plumbing, or the building’s core life-safety systems (non-combustible construction, 2hr fire ratings, etc.). The "violation" was purely about applying today’s standards to a 50-year-old, code-compliant-when-built structure.

The Code Insight That Saved the Project

✅ NBC 2020 Note A-1.1.1.1.(1): “ It is not intended that the NBC be used to enforce the retrospective application of new requirements to existing buildings or existing portions of relocated buildings, unless specifically required by local regulations or bylaws.”

✅ Key Principle: Existing buildings shouldn’t be forced to meet new codes unless the renovation directly impacts the non-compliant element.

Why This Matters to Every Developer, Architect, and Inspector

1️⃣ Cost Control: Avoid six-figure retrofits for untouched systems.

2️⃣ Risk-Based Thinking: This building’s fire safety wasn’t compromised—office and residential high-rises share identical core protections.

3️⃣ Enforcement Clarity: Codes aren’t retroactive by design—unless local bylaws explicitly say otherwise.

The Takeaway

Always ask:  Does an existing-building clause or note apply to my project?

This mindset might save a client from unnecessary costs—have you seen similar code misinterpretations?

#BuildingCode #ConstructionLaw #FireSafety #Renovation #CostSavings #ExistingBuildings #NBC #AHJ