Systems Integration Tips and Tricks

Systems Integration focuses on a designer's ability to consider other consultants and building systems while designing both a reflected ceiling plan and a subsequent lighting plan. 

Methinks this might be a leeeetle hard to plan around...

While an architect usually has a heavy hand in the ceiling design and features, it may require aesthetic input from an interior designer. As there are many trades involved once you're above eye level in a space (read: Exit signage, sprinklers, HVAC, lighting, power, and access panels to the plenum), it is important to be well-versed in the integration of every trade. This is an area of design where those involved must not only compromise often, they must be clear and communicate soundly to ensure each system is functioning efficiently. 

Systems Integration 

Time suggested: 1/2 hour

This portion of the test is my personal breather. It's the "easy" part for me where my brain isn't racing, measuring, sketching, and re-reading the program constantly. Reasons why:

• They don't make you go in cold and hunt for conflicts - they bubble them for you. After 6-7 hours of testing, this is much appreciated.
• I love comparing, checking, and considering other trades. I enjoyed it in college (my favorite class was the technical one, oddly) and I enjoy it at work. 
• I have a lot of experience in this area from my time in an architectural firm where I was designing among HVAC and sprinklers often. I worked on many RCP's, sections, and details. 
• I had a lot more exposure to the construction of and components within the plenum than I ever bargained for when I learned Revit. 
• I grew up with an architect for a father who pointed out every code violation anywhere we went. He is always looking up. I was looking at complicated reflected ceiling plans, roof plans, sections, and details asking questions. 

For all this knowledge and enjoyment, this part of the test is worth a whopping 12%.

Boo on that. 

{ TIPS }

1. The lighting schedule and legend: I've found that if you stick to 84" (7'-0") for all mounting heights, you're in the safe range.

• Pendants over a counter: 6'-6" to 7'-6" AFF  - - - - 84" OK here
• Chandelier / pendant over a table: 6'-8" to 8'-6" - - - - 84" OK Here
• Sconces on wall: between 27" and 80" must protrude less than 4"... stick above 80" at 84" and you're good.

Don't over-think this one. They're looking for compliant not creative. 

2. When tackling conflicts, I prefer not to go in numerical order. Why? Because your solution for Conflict #2 might affect Conflict #8. I go by areas or rooms with #'s nearby. It may not always be the case, but personally - it keeps me sharp. 

3. When writing your conflict descriptions, use terms like "interferes" and "conflicts with" even though it's obviously a conflict. Don't just write "recessed down light and sprinkler head." Don't assume the graders know what you mean.

4. When suggesting relocation for your solution, use north, south, east, and west to describe the direction you're recommending an item be shifted. Also, you can write "move one 2x2 ceiling tile to the north" or "shift approx. 6" to the east."

5. Be as descriptive in your drawn solution on the plan. I use arrows and my own revision clouds and I reiterate what my suggestions are there. 

6. Pay attention to ceiling heights and HVAC ducts. Use the section drawing. With the ceiling dropping down in some areas or being vaulted in others, a supply duct could be truncated before it reaches a register!

If anyone has their own trials or tips, please feel free to share in the comments below!!

More tips to come in my "How I Did" Post! 

Happy comparing!

Carolyn