Villagers
I'm Nelson Rocha
Owner and Principal
Studio 9 Architecture + Planning Ltd.
Nelson, BC
What is your current job role and building code experience?
Owner and Principal at Studio 9 Architecture + Planning Ltd. I have been a registered architect with AIBC since 2015 and involved in advanced building code learning since 2017. I completed the Certified Professional (CP) course in 2017 and regularly perform detailed building code reviews for clients as part of our scope of services.
What impact do you hope to have at Kilo Lima?
As I did when I first started using it, I think that a lot of architects view the building code as a complex and intimidating beast. I hope that I can impart some of the building code knowledge I have gained over my years from the perspective of an architect.
HOW CAN THE INDUSTRY CONTRIBUTE TO GLOBAL SOLUTIONS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY?
Buildings play a huge role in this in many ways. Specifically, the Building Code can mandate energy targets, improve accessibility, and be mindful of building code changes that have significant implications on construction costs.
“As I did when I first started using it, I think that a lot of architects view the building code as a complex and intimidating beast. ”
WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT OUTSIDE THE OFFICE?
Outdoor adventure! I enjoy backcountry skiing, rock climbing, mountain biking, trail running, hiking, canoeing, basically anything that involves being in the mountains or wilderness.
WHAT’S BEEN A PIVOTAL PROJECT FOR YOU?
In terms of how architecture intersects with the Building Code, a review and building code analysis of the Kalesnikoff Lumber Mill was my first project where I had to take a deep dive into the Code to look at what upgrades were needed to make this lumber processing plant code compliant. That one project kickstarted my foray into the Building Code and wanting to achieve a more in depth understanding of it so that I could do the other aspect of my job, design, with greater confidence.
WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES FACING THE BUILDING CODE INDUSTRY TODAY?
The transfer of building code knowledge to the end users of the Code, i.e. the contractors and builders. Much of the intent behind building codes do not get adequately transferred through drawings to the people actually constructing our buildings. Many building envelope and fire protection details are improperly executed today, sometimes even by experienced builders, due to the fundamental concepts being poorly understood. Other than the most seasoned and experienced building code consultants, building officials, and building designers, we all seem to have a lot of learning to do.
