A floor collapsed during a party held in a meeting room of a residential building. The building owner should post a sign of what the max occupancy of the meeting room is. The information that should be investigated is maximum live load of the space and the concrete slab test results. The architect should be responsible if the building concrete does not reach its requirement. I would factor in the building owner or architect to be liable.
Author: Fernando
Case study #1 Fernando Gonzalez
It’s unfortunate how many times a preventable incident occurs because of a silly approval. Especially in New York City, where some projects are quickly approved and constructed without the absolute knowledge of all parties. This case study is a prime example of getting work done quickly and inefficiently. An architect is responsible for many aspects in a complex project such as the clients needs, development, and construction.
What’s unfortunate is when a client, who hires you, is in agreement with an unsafe idea, like using the wrong content of cement. Cement is critical and significant to the concrete building phase and affects the structure in the long term. As an architect, a prime concern to always be aware of is safety and durability. We are trained for moments that require leadership and quick action, even when the client is against the decision.
A professional should always be five steps ahead and provide options instead of quickly reaching a significant conclusion that affects all involved. In a moment like the cement issue, if there is a disagreement still, then there is no choice but to not approve the contractor’s requisition. It’s a decision that prevents future consequences for the superintendent and architect.
Fernando’s Dream Career
As a senior, I’ve come to terms that there are many options regarding the field of Architecture. In a city like New York, the opportunities vary and are very competitive. At this stage of my life I am more than familiar with what I exceed at and lack skills for, but I still perceive and remain optimistic. Luckily I’ve had experience under my father’s Millwork company through the years and learned a lot first hand how it works in the field compared to student work. Some of the lessons are communication, time management, strong work ethic, and optimism.
For my career I plan to remain in the city and gain experience through small firms that based themselves in construction management (contractors), interior design and renovations. I enjoy being on site working with other professionals and not only assure progress but gain knowledge in the process. Working on commercial related sites is more interesting to me than focusing on residential apartments and houses. My dream is to continuously meet others related to the field and work together to continue improving the New Yorker lifestyle, one or many locations at a time.
As a contractor/architect, not only I dream of being more than economically stable, but leading the way and setting the standard as a unique firm. In New York City, there’s constant projects happening daily regarding my field. The dream is realistic because of the significant need to change certain spaces while applying new aesthetics and following complex designs to improve people’s lifestyle.
