We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Matthew Morris
No matter which role you have in a building construction project, it is vital that you understand the "guts" of a building in order to make a positive impact. For contractors, engineers, architects, real estate developers and facilities managers, it takes years or even decades to learn the materials and systems in a building. The typical source of this education is on-the-job because this material is not taught in schools. Young professionals spend an extraordinary amount of time trying to understand the complexities of a modern building. Every project is different and the materials and systems can change drastically from one building to the next. Time can be better spent by adding value to projects instead of learning terminology and construction sequencing. The lessons in the course have been developed to boil down years of on-the-job training into high-impact, bite-sized classes.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/1eofk7/how
What's inside
Learning objectives
- Identify the numerous components, materials and systems in a commercial building
- Describe the sequence of construction and relationships between construction activities
- Identify the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction of building systems & materials
- Describe the numerous considerations when choosing different building materials and systems
- Develop a construction and engineering vocabulary
- Evaluate key constraints and select all of the appropriate major systems and materials in a building
- Identify the numerous components, materials and systems in a commercial building
- Describe the sequence of construction and relationships between construction activities
- Identify the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction of building systems & materials
- Describe the numerous considerations when choosing different building materials and systems
- Develop a construction and engineering vocabulary
- Evaluate key constraints and select all of the appropriate major systems and materials in a building
Syllabus
Introduction How a Building is Designed and Built - Part 5
Lesson 1 Introduction How a Building is Designed and Built
Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) Systems Preview
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction How a Building is Designed and Built - Part 5
Lesson 1 Introduction How a Building is Designed and Built
Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) Systems Preview
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Ideal for those who want a high level overview of the materials and systems in a commercial building
Does not delve into any system or material deeply, which may not be enough for someone who needs a deep understanding of how each system works
Well-suited for those wanting to get up to speed quickly on the wide range of systems and materials used in commercial buildings
Taught by Matthew Morris, who is recognized for his expertise in commercial construction
This course could be complemented by more in-depth courses on specific building systems for those wanting to develop expertise in a particular area
Covers numerous considerations when choosing different building materials and systems, which could help students make better informed decisions in their work
Save this course
Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save
Save
Reviews summary
Essential building systems for professionals
According to learners, "How a Building is Designed and Built - Part 5 of 6" is a largely positive and highly practical course, particularly valuable for professionals in construction, architecture, and facilities management. Students praise its clear and concise explanations that effectively break down complex topics like HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems into digestible, bite-sized modules. Many feel it fills critical on-the-job knowledge gaps not covered in traditional schooling. While it's noted as Part 5 of a comprehensive series, its content on core building systems remains highly relevant and applicable, helping learners develop essential vocabulary and understand construction sequencing.
Breaks down complex topics into digestible, understandable lessons.
"The explanations are clear and concise, making complex topics digestible."
"The bite-sized classes made it easy to learn. Complex concepts were explained simply and effectively."
"I appreciate how it breaks down years of experience into manageable chunks. Essential for any young professional."
Highly relevant for professionals seeking on-the-job knowledge.
"I've been in the field for years and still learned new insights. It's truly on-the-job training distilled."
"The sections on Indoor Air Quality and emergency power were particularly relevant to my work."
"This course filled gaps that traditional schooling missed. I can immediately apply this to my construction projects."
Provides essential knowledge on mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.
"Absolutely essential for anyone in construction or architecture. The module on HVAC systems Part 2 was incredibly detailed and practical."
"This course is a game-changer for understanding building guts. The electrical systems sections were very well laid out, even for someone who isn't an electrician."
"Good content, especially the plumbing systems module. I learned a lot about HVAC components."
Fifth part of a comprehensive course series.
"Good content... Part 5 of a series, so be aware of that."
"An excellent continuation of the series. It truly helps develop a strong construction and engineering vocabulary."
"It flows well if you've done the preceding courses. As a standalone, it's strong, but better as a series."
Some find the pace fast; others want more specialized depth.
"The pace felt a bit fast at times. As someone relatively new to the industry, I had to rewatch some lessons."
"Some good information, but I found the lessons on electrical systems quite dense. I struggled to keep up without a stronger electrical background."
"My only minor critique is that sometimes it felt a little too high-level for someone looking to specialize, but for general understanding, it's perfect."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in How a Building is Designed and Built - Part 5 of 6 with these
activities:
Practice recognizing and identifying different building materials and systems
Show steps
Identify and list different materials and systems you encounter in your daily life and note where you think they are used in commercial buildings.
Browse courses on
Building Materials
Show steps
-
Go for a walk and identify different building materials used in the buildings you pass
-
Research online about different building systems and how they work
-
Visit a construction site and talk to the workers about the materials and systems they are using
Read 'Mechanical and Electrical Systems for Buildings' by Benjamin Stein and John Reynolds
Show steps
Start the course by reviewing the fundamentals of building systems with a book that introduces thermal comfort, indoor air quality, HVAC systems, plumbing systems, and electrical systems.
View
Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Get the book
-
Carve out 60 minutes each day for reading
-
Take notes and highlight important concepts
Join a study group or online forum to discuss course material and ask questions
Show steps
Engage with other students taking the course to exchange knowledge, clarify concepts, and provide support.
Browse courses on
Collaboration
Show steps
-
Find a study group or online forum
-
Introduce yourself and share your goals
-
Participate in discussions and ask questions
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a mind map of the different roles involved in the design and construction of building systems and materials
Show steps
Create a visual representation of the roles and responsibilities of different parties involved in a building project, including architects, engineers, contractors, and facility managers.
Browse courses on
Building Design
Show steps
-
Gather information about the different roles involved in the design and construction of building systems and materials
-
Organize the information into a mind map
-
Share the mind map with others to get feedback
Attend industry events and conferences to connect with professionals in the field
Show steps
Expand your network and learn about the latest industry trends by attending events where you can meet professionals and potential employers.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
-
Research industry events and conferences
-
Register for events and prepare your elevator pitch
-
Attend events and actively engage with attendees
Design and build a small-scale model of a commercial building
Show steps
Apply the knowledge gained in the course to a hands-on project by designing and building a model that incorporates various building systems and materials.
Browse courses on
Building Design
Show steps
-
Plan the design of the building
-
Gather the necessary materials
-
Construct the model
-
Test the functionality of the building systems
Participate in a design competition or hackathon related to building systems and materials
Show steps
Challenge yourself and gain practical experience by participating in a competition that requires you to apply your knowledge and skills to solve real-world problems.
Browse courses on
Building Design
Show steps
-
Research design competitions or hackathons related to building systems and materials
-
Form a team or work individually
-
Develop a solution and submit your entry
Practice recognizing and identifying different building materials and systems
Show steps
Identify and list different materials and systems you encounter in your daily life and note where you think they are used in commercial buildings.
Browse courses on
Building Materials
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Go for a walk and identify different building materials used in the buildings you pass
- Research online about different building systems and how they work
- Visit a construction site and talk to the workers about the materials and systems they are using
Read 'Mechanical and Electrical Systems for Buildings' by Benjamin Stein and John Reynolds
Show steps
Start the course by reviewing the fundamentals of building systems with a book that introduces thermal comfort, indoor air quality, HVAC systems, plumbing systems, and electrical systems.
View
Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Get the book
- Carve out 60 minutes each day for reading
- Take notes and highlight important concepts
Join a study group or online forum to discuss course material and ask questions
Show steps
Engage with other students taking the course to exchange knowledge, clarify concepts, and provide support.
Browse courses on
Collaboration
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group or online forum
- Introduce yourself and share your goals
- Participate in discussions and ask questions
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a mind map of the different roles involved in the design and construction of building systems and materials
Show steps
Create a visual representation of the roles and responsibilities of different parties involved in a building project, including architects, engineers, contractors, and facility managers.
Browse courses on
Building Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather information about the different roles involved in the design and construction of building systems and materials
- Organize the information into a mind map
- Share the mind map with others to get feedback
Attend industry events and conferences to connect with professionals in the field
Show steps
Expand your network and learn about the latest industry trends by attending events where you can meet professionals and potential employers.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research industry events and conferences
- Register for events and prepare your elevator pitch
- Attend events and actively engage with attendees
Design and build a small-scale model of a commercial building
Show steps
Apply the knowledge gained in the course to a hands-on project by designing and building a model that incorporates various building systems and materials.
Browse courses on
Building Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Plan the design of the building
- Gather the necessary materials
- Construct the model
- Test the functionality of the building systems
Participate in a design competition or hackathon related to building systems and materials
Show steps
Challenge yourself and gain practical experience by participating in a competition that requires you to apply your knowledge and skills to solve real-world problems.
Browse courses on
Building Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research design competitions or hackathons related to building systems and materials
- Form a team or work individually
- Develop a solution and submit your entry
Career center
Learners who complete How a Building is Designed and Built - Part 5 of 6 will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Architect
Architect
Architects create the designs for buildings, ensuring that they are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. They work closely with clients, engineers, and contractors to ensure that the building is built according to plan. This course can help aspiring architects develop the knowledge and skills the profession demands. Its lessons cover the numerous components of a commercial building, the sequence of construction, and the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction process.
Architectural Drafter
Architectural Drafter
Architectural drafters create technical drawings and plans for buildings. They work under the supervision of architects and engineers to ensure that the plans are accurate and meet building codes. This course can help architectural drafters develop the technical skills needed to succeed in the field. Its lessons cover the numerous components of a commercial building, the sequence of construction, and the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction process.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineer
Civil engineers design and build infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and buildings. They work closely with architects, contractors, and other engineers to ensure that projects are completed safely and efficiently. This course can help aspiring civil engineers develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. Its lessons cover the numerous components of a commercial building, the sequence of construction, and the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction process.
MEP Engineer
MEP Engineer
MEP engineers design and maintain mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems in buildings and other structures. They work with architects, contractors, and other engineers to ensure that MEP systems are safe and efficient. This course can help aspiring MEP engineers develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. Its lessons cover the numerous components of a commercial building's MEP systems, the sequence of construction, and the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction process.
Construction Manager
Construction Manager
Construction managers oversee the construction of buildings and other structures. They work with architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to specifications. This course can help aspiring construction managers develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. Its lessons cover the numerous components of a commercial building, the sequence of construction, and the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction process.
Project Manager
Project Manager
Project managers oversee the planning, execution, and closure of construction projects. They work with clients, architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to specifications. This course can help aspiring project managers develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. Its lessons cover the numerous components of a commercial building, the sequence of construction, and the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction process.
Structural Engineer
Structural Engineer
Structural engineers design and maintain the structural elements of buildings and other structures. They work with architects, contractors, and other engineers to ensure that structural elements are safe and efficient. This course can help aspiring structural engineers develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. Its lessons cover the numerous components of a commercial building's structural elements, the sequence of construction, and the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction process.
Plumbing Engineer
Plumbing Engineer
Plumbing engineers design and maintain plumbing systems in buildings and other structures. They work with architects, contractors, and other engineers to ensure that plumbing systems are safe and efficient. This course can help aspiring plumbing engineers develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. Its lessons cover the numerous components of a commercial building's plumbing systems, the sequence of construction, and the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction process.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineer
Electrical engineers design, develop, and maintain electrical systems in buildings and other structures. They work with architects, contractors, and other engineers to ensure that electrical systems are safe and efficient. This course can help aspiring electrical engineers develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. Its lessons cover the numerous components of a commercial building's electrical systems, the sequence of their construction, and the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction process.
Fire Protection Engineer
Fire Protection Engineer
Fire protection engineers design and implement systems to protect buildings and other structures from fire. They work with architects, contractors, and other engineers to ensure that fire protection systems are safe and effective. This course can help aspiring fire protection engineers develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. Its lessons cover the numerous components of a commercial building's fire protection systems, the sequence of construction, and the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction process.
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability consultants help organizations to reduce their environmental impact. They work with clients to develop and implement sustainable practices in all aspects of their operations, including building design and construction. This course can help aspiring sustainability consultants develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. Its lessons cover the numerous components of a commercial building's sustainable design, the sequence of construction, and the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction process.
HVAC Engineer
HVAC Engineer
HVAC engineers design and maintain heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in buildings and other structures. They work with architects, contractors, and other engineers to ensure that HVAC systems are safe and efficient. This course can help aspiring HVAC engineers develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. Its lessons cover the numerous components of a commercial building's HVAC systems, the sequence of construction, and the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction process.
Interior designer
Interior designer
Interior designers create the interior spaces of buildings and other structures. They work with clients, architects, and contractors to ensure that interior spaces are functional and aesthetically pleasing. This course can help aspiring interior designers develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. Its lessons cover the numerous components of a commercial building's interior design, the sequence of construction, and the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction process.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical engineers design and maintain mechanical systems in buildings and other structures. They work with architects, contractors, and other engineers to ensure that mechanical systems are safe and efficient. This course can help aspiring mechanical engineers develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. Its lessons cover the numerous components of a commercial building's mechanical systems, the sequence of construction, and the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction process.
Landscape Architect
Landscape Architect
Landscape architects design the outdoor spaces of buildings and other structures. They work with clients, architects, and contractors to ensure that outdoor spaces are functional and aesthetically pleasing. This course may be useful for aspiring landscape architects, as it covers the numerous components of a commercial building's exterior design, the sequence of construction, and the roles of the major parties involved in the design and construction process.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/1eofk7/how
Reading list
We've selected 14 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
How a Building is Designed and Built - Part 5 of 6.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of building construction. It useful reference for those who want to learn about the different aspects of building construction, including design, materials, and施工.
Provides a detailed overview of the mechanical and electrical systems used in buildings. It covers the design, installation, and maintenance of these systems, and it is an excellent reference for anyone who wants to learn more about how buildings work.
Provides a comprehensive overview of construction quality management. It covers the different types of construction quality management systems, the methods for implementing construction quality management systems, and the factors that can affect construction quality.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the engineering principles and practices involved in the design and operation of building services systems. It valuable resource for those who want to gain a deeper understanding of these systems.
Provides an introduction to the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems used in buildings. It is written specifically for interior designers, and it covers the basics of how these systems work, how they are designed, and how they can be integrated into interior design projects.
Provides a comprehensive overview of construction project management. It covers the planning, scheduling, and execution of construction projects, and it is an excellent reference for anyone who wants to learn more about construction project management.
Provides a comprehensive overview of construction scheduling. It covers the different types of construction schedules, the methods for developing construction schedules, and the factors that can affect construction schedules.
Comprehensive reference for architectural standards and symbols. It valuable resource for architects, engineers, and other professionals who need to understand and use architectural standards.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of fire protection for buildings. It covers the design of buildings to resist fire, the detection and suppression of fires, and the evacuation of people from buildings.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of Building Information Modeling (BIM). It covers the principles of BIM, the different types of BIM software, and the benefits of using BIM.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of architectural acoustics. It covers the design of spaces for good acoustics, the control of noise and vibration, and the measurement and evaluation of acoustic performance.
Provides a comprehensive overview of construction law. It covers the different types of construction contracts, the rights and responsibilities of the parties to a construction contract, and the legal issues that can arise during the construction process.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of building construction. It useful reference for those who want to learn about the different aspects of building construction, including design, materials, and施工.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the 2018 International Building Code. It valuable resource for those who want to learn about the different requirements of the code, and how to apply them to building design and construction.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/1eofk7/how
Share
Similar courses
Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
Affiliate disclosure
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser