Key facts
UNE unit code: GEPL359
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 3 - Online
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information

This unit introduces you to architectural design and building construction. You will learn design skills through ‘hands on’ experience in design and construction of domestic scale buildings. You will learn to draw up simple building design plans, and also how to interpret the drawings of others.
The responsibility of designers under local government and planning legislation is discussed, including heritage, streetscape, ecologically sustainable development and natural hazards. You will learn about the developmental controls put in place by government policy and how to work within the limits of the legislation.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 3 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)

Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate coherent knowledge of the principles of ecologically sustainable development;
- analyse and critically evaluate the application of appropriate functional, environmental and aesthetic principles to building design;
- demonstrate and model skills in visualising imaginary built environments and realising them through design communication to others;
- apply the ability to prepare architectural presentation drawings of simple building projects and to read drawings;
- apply the ability to understand policy documents and legislation as they impact upon planners in their work; and
- use autonomy and judgement in understanding the development control process.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assignment 1 | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Field observation exercise - construction methods No. Words: 2000 |
| Assignment 2 | Yes | 60% | All offerings | Dwelling design No. Words: 3000 |
| Studio Participation | Yes | 10% | All offerings | Assessed participation in studio work for on-campus students and discussion board for online students. No. Words: 500 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Building Your Own Home: A Comprehensive Guide to Owner-Builders
ISBN: 9781742572161
Wilkie, G., Pearson Revised ed. 2011
Text refers to: All offerings
Note: Referenced material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Environmental Design: An Introduction for Urban Planners
Cunningham, C. and Auster, M., UNE Reprint
Text refers to: All offerings
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