FX V 12. Identify Finish Materials#23389
1. Which is the most important consideration to make when specifying wood paneling?
the type of wood specified
what type of veneer to use
which type of paneling to use rail, stile or flush
veneer matching method
Source: Veneer Matching Examples, Dooge Veneers, Matching
In addition to considerations of cost, durability, and code requirements, the way veneers are cut and the methods used to match adjacent veneer panels affect the final appearance.
The veneer-matching method is the primary consideration when specifying paneling, dictating the visual aesthetic and affecting grain flow, color consistency, and pattern across panels.
Techniques like book match, slip match, and random match create drastically different looks, from uniform to rustic, significantly impacting overall project appearance and cost.
Blueprint/Lesson: Qpractice Answer Vault
FX V 13. Identify Significant FF&E#SC_PPA_1.7_1153
2. What is the appropriate height for the employee staff room counter as indicated below?
See Your Answer
Correct
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Section 902 Dining Surfaces and Work Surfaces
Refer to the program document.
Accessibility
The following areas must be accessible:
Staff Room
Reception
Board Room
The program indicates that the Staff Room should be accessible. By 902.4 Height, the tops of dining surfaces and work surfaces shall be 28 inches (710 mm) minimum and 34 inches (865 mm) maximum in height above the floor.
FX V 12. Identify Finish Materials#28860
3. During a renovation, when products and materials cannot be reused or recycled, they are disposed of in a landfill.
What type of product would BEST minimize the quantity of items that go to a landfill and also save raw materials?
Sustainable materials
Co-Products
Recovered materials
Biobased products
Source: USGBC, Building product disclosure and optimization – sourcing of raw materials
If old products and materials cannot be reused or recycled, they must be burned or disposed of in a landfill.
Biobased products are made with plant or animal materials as the main ingredient. Some examples of biobased products include adhesives, composite panels, gypsum wallboard substrates, ceiling tiles, and carpet backing.
If a material is biodegradable, it can break down quickly and return to the earth. Some materials, such as aluminum, most plastics, or steel, take a very long time to decompose naturally. Biobased products may be used to minimize disposal problems while saving depletable raw materials.
Bio-based products must meet the Sustainable Agriculture Network’s Sustainable Agriculture Standard. As defined by the exporting and receiving countries, bio-based raw materials must be tested using ASTM D6866 and be legally harvested. Exclude hide products, such as leather and other animal skin materials. Products meeting bio-based materials criteria are valued at 100% of their cost for credit achievement calculation.
FX V 12. Identify Finish Materials#10099419
4. Which of the following conformity assessment options are required under the Facts program?
See Your Answer
Place a target to indicate the correct response.
Correct
Source: Association for Contract Textiles, FACTS Sustainability Certification
Facts certification for fabric sustainability requires a third-party assessment.
Facts was developed to recognize contract textiles that conform to the rigors of the multi-attribute standard NSF/ANSI 336 and are third-party certified. A Facts sustainability rating indicates a textile has been evaluated for environmental, economic, and social aspects across its life cycle.
To earn the Facts certification mark, the textile must be assessed and verified by an independent third-party certification body authorized by the Association for Contract Textiles (ACT). Textiles assessed by a first or second party or not verified by an authorized third party cannot bear the Facts certification mark.
Blueprint/Lesson: 12. Identify Finish Materials
IX III 23. Develop Elevations#LCCS24
5. What is the maximum height of the accessible transaction counter at the reception?
See Correct Answer Key
Currently viewing your answer
Incorrect
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings, Section 904 Sales and Service Counters and Windows
The maximum height is 36 inches (915 mm)
Refer to 904.3.2 Parallel approach and 904.3.3 Forward approach.
An office’s front reception desk is typically considered a “service counter” for visitors and guests (rather than an accessible work surface for employees) under the ICC A117.1.
Therefore, a portion of the counter surface 36 inches (915 mm) minimum in length for a parallel approach, and 30 inches (760 mm) minimum in length for a forward approach shall be provided at a maximum height of 36 inches (915 mm).
FX V 12. Identify Finish Materials#NAE_CD_4.14_0002
6. The Interior Designer is researching window coverings for the New Age Eyes space.
See Your Answer
Place the target to indicate which test the window treatments should pass.
Correct
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, 3rd Edition, Finish and Furniture Selection
The correct answer is the vertical ignition test, NFPA 701, which tests the flammability of draperies, curtains, and other window treatments.
• The methenamine pill test, ASTM D2859, is a test for carpet flammability
• The Taber test, ASTM D3884, measures how resistant materials such as carpets are to abrasion
• The room cornet test, NFPA 286, determines the contribution of interior finish materials to room fire growthBlueprint/Lesson: Identify Finish Materials
FX V 13. Identify Significant FF&E#10015839
7. The main differences between California Technical Bulletins “CAL 117” and “CAL 133” are:
CAL 117 addresses the Flame Retardance of Resilient Filling Materials, and CAL 133 measures the amount of toxicity a material emits when it is burned.
CAL 117 addresses the Flame Retardance of Resilient Filling Materials, and CAL 133 deals with a completed chair flame test.
CAL 117 measures the amount of toxicity a material emits when it is burned, and CAL 133 deals with a completed chair flame test.
CAL 117 deals with a completed chair flame test and CAL 133 measures the amount of toxicity a material emits when it is burned.
Source: Harmon, K.E.K.S. K. (2018). The Codes Guidebook for Interiors., Finish and Furniture Selections, Standards and Testing
CAL 117: “CAL 117, Requirements, Test Procedures and Apparatus for Testing the Flame Retardance of Resilient Filling Materials Used in Upholstered Furniture”
CAL 133: “The full‐scale test is a pass/fail test of a whole piece of furniture rather than of an individual finish or material. It was first developed by the state of California and titled California Technical Bulletin 133, also referred to as either CAL 133 or TB 133.”
CAL 133 was repealed in 2019 due to concerns about the toxicity of the flame-retardant chemicals used.Blueprint/Lesson: Answer Vault Video: CAL TB 117, CAL TB 133 NFPA 260
IX II 20. Develop Finish Plan and Specifications#23292
8. Which of the following would be the best choice for a bright, multicolored carpet to be used in a high traffic daycare center that has a moderate budget and is concerned with staining and cleaning of the flooring?
synthetic blend
wool
nylon
polyester
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Floor Finishes, Soft Flooring, Carpet Fibers
Nylon is an economical carpet material that is very strong and wear-resistant. It has high stain resistance and excellent crush resistance, can be dyed with a wide variety of colors, and cleans easily.
Because of its many advantages, including cost, nylon is the most widely used fiber for residential and commercial carpet.
Nylon
Durable, resilient, quick drying; resists soil, mold, and fading. Solution dyed. Nylon 6 is easier to recycle than nylon 6,6. Moderate costOlefin
Good abrasion, soil, mildew resistance; colorfast, improved texture available. Recycled content but not recyclable. Lowest costPolyester
Good fade, abrasion, soil, stain resistance; dyes well. Texture similar to wool. Low resilience, wear paths, matting. Recycled content, but not recyclable. Low cost; short lifeWool
Excellent durability, texture, and stain and flame resistance; dyes very well. Biodegradable. High cost; long lifeIX III 22. Develop Details and Sections#30531
9. Question: Which of the following wood joinery details illustrates a rabbet joint?
a
b
c
d
Right Answer: a
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, 6th Edition, Architectural Woodwork
a. Illustrates a rabbet joint
b. Illustrates a dado joint
c. Illustrates a dovetail dado joint
d. Illustrates a shoulder miter jointFX V 12. Identify Finish Materials#10100571
10. There are several tests and standards designed to evaluate the degree of flammability of finish materials.
See Correct Answer Key
Currently viewing your answer
Drag and drop from the list of test names on the left to match the appropriate application on the right.
Incorrect
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Finish and Furniture Selection: Standards and Testing
ASTM E84 (Steiner Tunnel Test) is for interior wall and ceiling textile finishes
NFPA 701 (Vertical Ignition Test) is for vertical treatments such as window coverings and tapestries
ASTM 2859 (Methenamine Pill Test) is for floor coverings such as carpets and rugs
NFPA 265 (Room Corner Test) is for textile wall finishes, not including ceilings
Refer also to the Interior Design Reference Manual, Types of Tests and Standards
Blueprint/Lesson: 12. Identify Finish Materials
IX II 21. Develop Furniture Plans and Specifications#10095521
11. The most detailed information about furniture is commonly found on
a furniture schedule
the furniture plan
the specifications
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, 3rd Edition, Furniture Installation Plans
The furniture plan typically contains tags with code numbers for each piece of furniture. It shows where furniture goes in a space, using codes or labels. The code number refers either to a schedule on the drawings or to the specifications, with additional detailed information about what that tagging represents, where the information, such as a manufacturer, model number, color, finish, and other criteria, is listed.
The furniture schedule is a detailed list (often a table/spreadsheet) that links the plan’s codes to specific product details, quantities, and supplier info.
The furniture specifications provide in-depth technical details, performance standards, materials, finishes, and construction requirements for each item, often referenced by the schedule. Additionally, there may be specification information included that provides further details on the model number, including wellness, warranty, and compliance with standards testing. For documentation such as WELL and LEED, this must be included to demonstrate compliance.
In summary, the plan shows where, the schedule shows what (and how many), and the specs specify what it must be made of and how it performs.
FX V 13. Identify Significant FF&E#10095981
12. If minimizing cost is a concern, place the target to indicate which style of cabinet door and drawer construction should NOT be used.
See Your Answer
Correct
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, 3rd Edition, Specialty Drawings
Flush construction is a style where the doors and drawers are installed flush with the face frame.
This requires additional care in fabrication and fitting at installation and subsequently increases the cost.
FX V 12. Identify Finish Materials#23202
13. Which method of veneer cut results in the straightest grain possible from most species of trees?
half-round slicing
quarter slicing
flat slicing
rotary slicing
Quarter slicing creates the most straight grained pattern because the cutting knife strikes the growth rings at a 90 degree angle.
FX V 12. Identify Finish Materials#23501
14. Denim insulation has been specified for a new eco-friendly daycare center. This is an example of:
pre-industrial materials
recovered materials
renewable material
post-consumer material
Right Answer: post-consumer material
Source: Kennon, K. E., Harmon, S. K. The Codes Guidebook for Interiors., FINISH AND FURNITURE SELECTION
In terms of sustainable product standards, credit is given particularly for reducing pollutants in or produced by the material, using renewable power, using post-consumer recycled or organic materials, promoting product reuse or reclamation, and ensuring social equality from manufacturers and suppliers.
SMaRT is one example of a sustainable product standard and label controlled by the Institute for Market Transformation to Sustainability (MTS), and is used to evaluate individual products and finishes rather than complete buildings or spaces (such as LEED)
It comprises more than 50 individual standards suitable for use with multiple product types. SMaRT can be used to evaluate architectural products, paints and coatings, flooring, furniture, lighting, carpet, and fabric manufacturers’ and retailers’ processes. For example, it is considered the standard for the Sustainable Furnishings Council. SMaRT is considered a multi‐attribute standard because it evaluates the effect of a product on the global supply chain, environment, and the multiple stages of a product from raw materials extraction to end of life/reuse, including life cycle assessment (LCA) and SMaRT’s Environmental+Health Product Declaration (EPD+HPD) based on LCA.
FX V 13. Identify Significant FF&E#115630
15. In the kitchen and bath industry, the size of cabinetry in the drawings is often expressed in numbers which include the __________________________ of the manufactured units.
manufacturer's order number
tolerances and omissions
wood species and grade
width, height, and depth
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Specialty Drawings
In the kitchen and bath industry, the size of cabinetry is often expressed in width, height, and depth of the manufactured units.
Manufactured cabinets are made in standard sizes and styles, which are listed in catalogs or a manufacturer’s website:
IX II 21. Develop Furniture Plans and Specifications#10037262
16. Which of these types of systems furniture solutions would be best to address acoustical issues in an open office layout?
54”/1372 mm high fabric wrapped panels with a hollow core of fiberglass
42”/1066 mm tall desktop panels made of fabric-covered rigid fiberglass
65”/1651 mm high panels with a fabric-covered masonite inner septum
65”/1651 mm tall panels with a metal core bottom and glass framed top
Right Answer: 54”/1372 mm high fabric wrapped panels with a hollow core of fiberglass
Source: Qpractice, Product Components
The correct answer is a 54”/1372 mm high fabric wrapped panels with a hollow core of fiberglass.
Panels can use an inner septum or a masonite or metal sheet barrier to reflect sound. Acoustical panels help to absorb ambient sound and block sound transmission between workstations. A hollow inner core between outer panel materials is covered with one to two inches of fiberglass as a sound absorber.
FX V 13. Identify Significant FF&E#34766
17. In a small lounge area with exposed mechanical systems, you have designed two walls to receive a custom wood planked finish on the entire wall up to 10’.
Above this 10′-0″ (3.04 m) mark, the wall will continue with a painted finish into the exposed plenum space.
What gypsum wallboard finish level would be most appropriate for this wall?
Level 0
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Level 4
Level 5
Right Answer: Level 3
Source: Interior Construction Detailing for Designers, Partitions
Though the plenum is mentioned, the wall is exposed to view and requires more than a simple Level 1 finish. Since most of the wall will receive a heavy textured finish and the exposed wallboard will be above eye level with minimal exposure to light reflections, a simple and economical Level 3 finish should be appropriate.
The types of finishes on gypsum wallboard have been standardized by the Gypsum Association (GA) and published in GA-214, Recommended Levels of Gypsum Board Finish.
The levels provide a way to specify the exact requirements for any project. This is important because factors such as lighting conditions and paint type can affect the appearance of a surface that has not been correctly finished. For example, strong side lighting from a window perpendicular to a partition can accentuate minor flaws and dents in the wallboard.
Level 0: Requires no taping, finishing, or accessories.
Level 1: Joints and interior angles have tape embedded in joint compound with the surface free of excess joint compound. This level is used for plenums above ceilings and other areas not normally open to view.
Level 2: All joints and interior angles have tape embedded in joint compound, and one separate coat of compound is applied over all joints, angles, fastener heads, and accessories. This level is used where a water-resistant backing board is employed as a substrate for tile and in other areas where appearance is not critical.
Level 3: Similar to Level 2, except two coats of joint compound are used, and the surface is free of tool marks and ridges. This level is used where the surface receives heavy- or medium-textured finishes or heavy-grade wallcoverings will be applied.
Level 4: Similar to Level 3, except three coats of joint compound are used. This level is used where light textures or wallcoverings will be applied, or cost is a concern. Gloss, semi-gloss, and enamel paints are not recommended over this level of finish.
Level 5: Similar to Level 4, except that a thin skim coat of joint compound is applied over the entire surface. This level is used where gloss, semi-gloss, enamel, or nontextured flat paints are specified or severe lighting conditions exist.
FX V 13. Identify Significant FF&E#10037223
18. The client requires several new open office workstations for a current renovation.
Their team inhabits workstations while on sales calls throughout most of their day. They also collaborate by talking to adjacent team members.
What combination of materials and height would be most appropriate for a panel-based system?
36” H Writeable Surface [915 mm]
48” H Painted Metal [1067 mm]
42” H Acoustical Fabric [1525 mm]
56” H Acoustical Fabric [1220 mm]
Source: Panero, J., & Zelnik, M. (2014). Human Dimension and Interior Space. Random House Digital Inc.
The correct answer is 56” H Acoustical Fabric [1220 mm].
Because the team performs several functions, it has a combination of program needs. Sales calls throughout the day indicate a need for acoustic speech privacy in the open office. Collaboration throughout the day requires visual and acoustic accessibility to adjacent team members.
Workstation partition height should be designed to the 95% percentile or higher eye height for maximum privacy. To accommodate visual access to adjacent workstations, we need to select the panel height within the 5% bracket. This is 56.3” (143 cm) for women and 60.8” (154.4 cm) for men. Typical eye and ear height in the 95% range is 33.9” (86.1 cm) for men and 31.7” (80.5 cm) for women.
Office cubicle wall height should be based on privacy and collaboration needs. Low walls (42-48 inches) encourage teamwork and openness; medium walls (53-66 inches) provide a balance of privacy and interaction; and high walls (above 67 inches) offer maximum privacy. Consider the workspace layout, noise levels, and employee preferences.
A painted metal panel does not provide an acoustic buffer for speech.
56” H panels would fall within the visual access bracket height, accommodating anthropometric and ergonomic parameters while standing and sitting. The acoustic tack panel reflects sound, blocks sound transmission, and absorbs ambient sound.
Blueprint/Lesson: 13. Identify Significant FF&E
FX V 13. Identify Significant FF&E#10095220
19. Which of the details below would you expect to see on a shop drawing for a custom cabinet designed with flush overlay construction?
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Architectural Woodwork , Cabinetwork – Door and Drawer Front Construction, Figure 17.6
“In flush overlay construction, the front of the door or drawer overlaps the face frame of the cabinet. Edges of adjacent door and drawer fronts are separated only enough to allow operation without touching, usually about 1/8 in (3mm) or less. Only doors and drawers are visible, and they are all flush with each other.”
FX II. 4. Establish Best Practices of Design#24116
20. Embodied energy is defined as?
the energy that a green product will save over the course of its life cycle
the energy required by a product or material for its extraction as a raw material, initial processing, and subsequent manufacture into a finished product
the energy and resources required to dispose of product at the end of the product's life cycle
the process of inspecting, testing, starting up and adjusting building systems and then verifying and documenting that they are operating as intended and meet the design criteria of the contract documents
Right Answer: the energy required by a product or material for its extraction as a raw material, initial processing, and subsequent manufacture into a finished product
Source: Piotrowski, C. M. Designing Commercial Interiors., Healthcare Interiors, Sustainable Design
Embodied energy is the total energy required to extract, produce, fabricate, and deliver a material to a job site.
This includes:
the collection of raw materials,
the energy used to extract and process the raw materials,
transportation from the original site to the processing plant or factory,
the energy required to turn the raw materials into a finished product,
the energy required to transport the material to the job site
Designers should seek to choose products based on their total life-cycle cost, including maintenance, durability, and the embodied energy required for their production.
FX II. 5. Perform Project Research and Development#10060053
21. Facts certification covers which of the following products?
Contract textiles
Residential furniture
Commercial tile
Contract furniture
Source: Association for Contract Textiles, FACTS Sustainability Certification
Facts assesses the sustainability of commercial or contract textiles.
Contract textiles refers to fabrics used in commercial environments such as corporate, hospitality, healthcare, government, institutional, and higher education. In other words, anything non-residential.
FX II. 4. Establish Best Practices of Design#23355
22. A product that is reusable after it has served its purpose in the original building is what in the life cycle of another building?
reused materials
recycled materials
regenerated materials
salvaged materials
Right Answer: salvaged materials
A product should be reused after it has served its purpose at the end of its life cycle in the original building. This type of product becomes a salvaged material in the new life cycle of another building.
IX IV 29. Develop Signage and Wayfinding#10095156
23. Which of these are a type of wayfinding?
Change in Floor Direction
Wall Color
Signage
All of the Above
Source: Piotrowski, C. M. (2016). Designing Commercial Interiors., Lodging Facilities, Wayfinding
Wayfinding uses signs, maps, graphics, and directional arrows to help individuals navigate complex properties and building interiors.
Changes in flooring materials can also accomplish wayfinding. The main traffic path can be in one material, with other areas in another. For example, it is common for the main traffic path in the lobby to be finished in carpet or hard-surface material, while the flooring in an adjoining lobby seating area is in a different material.
The area in front of the elevator bank is often a different material from that used in the corridors, and, of course, wayfinding assistance can also be achieved through changes in wall colors.
FX I. 2. Evaluate Existing Building Conditions#10015842
24. Proper water-quality analysis includes “turbidity.” What is turbidity?
mineral content
biological purity
cloudiness
potability
Source: Corky, B. (2015). Building Systems for Interior Designers., Water Supply Systems, Introduction, Codes and Testing, Codes and Standards
Building codes cover almost every aspect of plumbing design and materials. Local health departments and specialized consultants can ensure the proper quantity and quality of the water supply through water-quality analysis. This process assesses mineral content, turbidity (cloudiness), total amount of solids, biological purity, and suitability for intended use.
Blueprint/Lesson: Evaluate Existing Building Conditions, Hazardous Materials
FX II. 6. Determine Design Intent#23061
25. A designer uses the principle of harmony in order to
achieve a variation of the component parts without causing an imbalance in the entire design
establish an agreement of individual elements to each other and to the entire composition
provide interest by developing one or two elements as more important than the other parts of a composition
develop a visual consistency and equilibrium to the individual elements
Right Answer: establish an agreement of individual elements to each other and to the entire composition
Source: Jones, Lynn M. Beginnings of Interior Environments, 11/e., Design Fundamentals, Harmony
Harmony is the distinctive combination of unity and variety. There should be a unifying theme or common thread that runs through all the individual components, blending them together. Harmony in an arrangement refers to how each part agrees with the others and contributes to the overall composition.
IX II 20. Develop Finish Plan and Specifications#28891
26. A vertical change in floor finish cannot exceed what height without a sloped transition piece?
1/8” (3.2 mm)
1/4" (6.4 mm)
3/8” (9.5 mm)
1/2" (13 mm)
Right Answer: 1/4" (6.4 mm)
Source: 2009 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, 303 Changes in Level
303.2 Vertical. Changes in level of 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) maximum in height shall be permitted to be vertical.
Only a vertical change in floor finish height equal to or less than 1/4″ does not require a sloped transition piece.
303.3 Beveled. Changes in level greater than 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) in height and not more than 1/2 inch (13 mm) maximum in height shall be beveled with a slope not steeper than 1:2.
FX II. 4. Establish Best Practices of Design#10096233
27. Place targets to identify Lynch’s five mapping elements used for wayfinding.
See Correct Answer Key
Currently viewing your answer
Incorrect
Source: Binggeli, Corky. Interior Graphic Standards: Student Edition., Environmental and Behavioral Issues, Wayfinding
Lynch’s research resulted in the identification of five categories of elements that people use to map an environment:
Paths: Channels of movement
Edges: Boundaries that break, contain, or run parallel to forms
Districts: Areas of recognizable identity
Nodes: Places of intense activity
Landmarks: Points of reference that are visually distinguishable
Blueprint/Lesson: 4. Establish Best Practices of Design
FX II. 4. Establish Best Practices of Design#23498
28. The ability of a previously used material to be used as a resource in the manufacture of a new product is?
material recovery
recyclability
adaptive reuse
coproduction
Source: EPA, Sustainable Management of Construction and Demolition Materials
Recyclability is the ability of a previously used material to be used as a resource in the manufacture of a new product.
Adaptive reuse is the process of redesigning and repurposing a building for a use other than its original purpose.
Material recovery is the collection and use of diverted waste materials
Coproduction is the creation of a new coproduct from materials that would otherwise be considered production waste. These materials are used to manufacture a new, saleable byproduct.
Construction and demolition (C&D) materials represent a significant waste stream in the United States, generated when new building and civil-engineering structures are built and when existing buildings and civil-engineering structures are renovated or demolished (including deconstruction activities).
These various C&D materials can be diverted from disposal and managed into new productive uses:
Concrete
Wood (from buildings)
Asphalt (from roads and roofing shingles)
Gypsum (the main component of drywall)
Metals
Bricks
Glass
Plastics
Salvaged building components (doors, windows, and plumbing fixtures)
Trees, stumps, earth, and rock from clearing site
FX II. 4. Establish Best Practices of Design#10017351
29. Published articles have suggested that the benefits of diversity to a business can be much greater than ethical practice (fairness in hiring, etc.) or market access.
However, these benefits relate directly to what main aspect of the organization?
management practices inseparable from culture set in place by leadership.
hierarchical management that is critical of staff, productivity and creativity.
counting employment statistics as evidence of equitable practices.
the number of diverse hirings made in response to marketplace drivers.
Right Answer: management practices inseparable from culture set in place by leadership.
Source: Architects, A.I. O. (2013). The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice., The Profession, sidebar MAKING DIFFERENCES MATTER
The benefits of diversity to a business can be much greater than ethical practice or market access. These benefits include increased creativity, organizational flexibility, capacity to see issues from many perspectives, and ability to deal successfully with the challenges of change.
Organizations that benefit most from a diverse workforce exhibit management structures that are egalitarian, fostering staff empowerment, continuous learning, and openness to different points of view.
These management practices are inseparable from the culture set in place by the organization’s leaders. In order for a diverse workforce to flourish, the leadership must truly welcome differing perspectives and alternative points of view.
IX II 20. Develop Finish Plan and Specifications#10095408
30. Which type of wood flooring could be installed easily and LEAST expensively in a residential living room?
plank
parquet
strip
laminate
Right Answer: parquet
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Floor Finishes
Hardwood floors are manufactured in four basic styles:
strip
plank
parquet
end grain (block)
Each style is available in a variety of species, colors, and widths.
Due to concerns about moisture, solid wood strip and plank floors are usually installed only on wooden subfloors at or above grade level over a plywood subfloor or on wooden sleepers. Both subfloors and the finished layer of wood should be checked for moisture content before installation. Tongue-and-groove wood floor strips or planks are blind nailed or stapled; butt-jointed flooring is face nailed. An underlayment, typically exterior-grade plywood, may be required for installation on a concrete slab.
Parquet flooring is prefabricated as panels with square edges, tongue-and-groove joints, or splines, and can be installed as a floating floor or nailed. Optional backings are available for moisture protection and insulation.
Parquet flooring is often mastic-applied and can go easily over most existing residential subfloors or finished floors or over a new subfloor. On a square-foot basis, the parquet would be least expensive considering both materials and installation.
FX II. 6. Determine Design Intent#10095222
31. When square footage needs have not been predetermined or predefined, how can the needs can be determined?
by the number of people that must be accommodated
by an object or piece of equipment
by a specific activity that has its own clearly specified space needs
all of these
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, 7th Edition, Information Analysis & Synthesis, Program Analysis
Where square footages are not defined by the client, space for a particular use is determined in one of three ways:
by the number of people that must be accommodated
by an object or piece of equipment
a specific activity that has its own clearly specified space needs
FX II. 6. Determine Design Intent#23059
32. Which of the following is a true statement about the difference between a programmatic concept and a design concept?
There are as many programmatic concepts for a problem as there are design concepts.
A design concept specifies a particular way to achieve the programmatic concept.
A design concept is a performance requirement.
Programmatic concepts are developed concurrently with design concepts.
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Programming Interior Spaces, Concept Development and the Design Process
Design concepts are based on and generated after programmatic concepts, of which there is usually only one. Programmatic concepts deal with performance requirements, which are then developed into a solution expressed as a design concept.
FX II. 6. Determine Design Intent#24288
33. Which element of design is one of the most powerful tools for the interior designer and is also one of the most complex to understand and apply?
harmony
color
proportion
texture
Source: Jones, M., L. Beginnings of Interior Environments, 11th Edition, Elements and Principles of Design
Color is one of the most dominant perceptions of the physical world and one of the most powerful tools for interior designers. At the same time, color response is one of the most complex physical and psychological phenomena to understand and use correctly.
PX I. 32 Evaluate Project Feasibility and Due Diligence#23552
34. Which scenario is best suited to hand measuring?
measuring spaces of moderate size and complexity
measuring large, but simple spaces
measuring residential design projects
measuring small, complex spaces
Right Answer: measuring spaces of moderate size and complexity
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Measurement and Drafting
Traditionally, collecting information on the size and configuration of existing buildings and spaces has required the interior designer to visit the site and make sketches and measurements using tape measure or traditional surveying equipment.
This method is labor intensive and prone to human errors as well as errors generated by the measurements.
However it can still be a useful, low-cost method to use when measuring spaces of moderate size and complexity, and does not require access to special tools or software.
FX II. 4. Establish Best Practices of Design#10014384
35. “Inclusive” design, sometimes referred to as “universal” design, is characterized by what main feature?
inclusive design promotes the needs of senior’s safety and independence
inclusive design addresses only the needs of public facility users
inclusive design is accessible for all people regardless of ability
inclusive design addresses the needs of the broadest range of individuals
Source: Ching, F.D. K., Binggeli, C. Interior Design Illustrated., Interior Design
Universal design can be defined as an approach to the design of all products and environments to be as usable as possible by as many people as possible, regardless of age, ability, or situation, and that results in better design and avoids the stigmatizing quality of accessible features that have been added on late in the design process or after it is complete.
Universal design (also called inclusive design) needs to be incorporated into a building’s program from the beginning.
IX IV 28. Develop Power, Data, and Communication Plan#24532
36. How high can a light switch be mounted?
36" (900 mm)
44" (1100 mm)
54" (1372 mm)
48" (1200 mm)
Right Answer: 48" (1200 mm)
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, 308 Reach Ranges
The standard mounting height for light switches is 48″, and the top mounting height for accessibility is 48″ for a side reach.
308.2 Forward Reach.
308.2.1 Unobstructed. Where a forward reach is unobstructed, the high forward reach shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum and the low forward reach shall be 15 inches (380 mm) minimum above the finish floor or ground.
308.3 Side Reach.
308.3.1 Unobstructed. Where a clear floor or ground space allows a parallel approach to an element and the side reach is unobstructed, the high side reach shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum and the low side reach shall be 15 inches (380 mm) minimum above the finish floor or ground.
IX I 17. Initiate Life Safety and/or Occupancy Plan#LC_CSL_2.1_1448
37. The building owner is reconfiguring the large training room in the Monarch Tower.
See Your Answer
It will become a lecture hall with fixed bench-style seating. Tables and chairs will be replaced with bench seating as shown in the figure. There are 10 benches that are each 10’ (3.048m) in seating length.
What is the occupant load of the seating area?
Correct
Source: 2021 International Building Code, CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS
The correct answer is 60 persons.
SECTION 1004 OCCUPANT LOAD, SECTION 1004.6 Fixed Seating
For areas having fixed seats, the occupant load is determined by the number of fixed seats. 1004.6 Fixed Seating states that for fixed seating without dividing arms, each person should be allocated 18 inches (457 mm).
Step 1: Determine the number of fixed seats per bench
10’ = 120 inches
120 inches/ (18 inches per person)
= 6.67 persons3.048 m = 3048 mm
3048 mm/ (457 mm per person)
= 6.67 personsAs we mentioned in our occupant load calculations, we cannot have partial people. In this item, we are calculating how many people fit on a bench. If each person requires at least 18” (457 mm), a 7-person bench must be at least 7 x 18” (7 x 457 mm) or 10.5’ (3.199m). Since our benches are 10’ (3.048m) long, we can accommodate only 6 persons per bench.
Therefore, our answer to Step 1 is 6 persons.Step 2: Determine the occupant load of the seating area, O.L. = 6 persons per bench x 10 benches
= 60 persons
Refer to the following:
• 1004.6 Fixed Seating for the minimum seating length required for each person when fixed seating is providedFX III. 9. Determine User Needs#10098751
38. In terms of proxemics, which type of seating would be the most appropriate when strangers are sitting near one another?
moveable seating
adjustable seating to accommodate a variety of different sized people
single chairs
bench style seating
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Developing Design Concepts, Proxemics
Proxemics is the study of the symbolic and communicative role of the spatial separation individuals maintain in various social and interpersonal situations.
The nature and degree of this spatial arrangement relates to environmental and cultural factors suggesting that whenever strangers will be sitting near each other, single chairs are preferable to sofas or benches.
Seating with definable separation is preferred, and people will sit at the two ends of a sofa or bench, leaving the middle empty rather than sit close to each other and risk physical contact.
Four different distances are identified in the theory of proxemics:
Intimate distance
Personal distance
Social distance
Public distance
“Social distance” ranges from 4 to 12 feet and is the distance at which most impersonal business, work and interaction takes place between strangers or in formal situations.
A behavior setting links the effects of the physical environment with behavior patterns of the people using the space. By knowing the activity taking place in the space and how the users will react, the designer can then develop programmatic concepts for the project.
Proxemics is related to but not the same as territoriality, a non-verbal communication in claiming ownership to a space. You’ve likely seen a person sitting at a six-person sized table at coffee shop with their belongings strewn about, letting others know this is “their space” and their unwillingness to share.
FX III. 9. Determine User Needs#10037217
39. Our bodies have a natural rhythm and, when we age, react to light in ways other than just for clarity of vision. This photobiological effect:
creates a need for up to 5 times lower light levels in aging adults to compensate for the aging eye
requires a low degree of brightness contrast to stabilize emotional response
requires the need for large levels of both unfiltered daylight and natural direct lighting sources
requires significantly higher levels of both daylight and artificial light to help synchronize circadian rhythms
Source: Null, R. (2013). Universal Design., Universal Design in the Office, Understanding Quality and Quantity of Light
The correct answer is “requires significantly higher levels of both daylight and artificial light to help synchronize circadian rhythms.”
In the words of the late Meredith Morgan, OD, Ph.D., Professor and Dean Emeritus of the School of Optometry at the University of California, Berkeley, at the age of 83, “As long as glare can be avoided, it is almost impossible to have too much light.”
Because of age-related changes and eye diseases, older adults require 3 to 5 times as much light as young people. When the photobiological effects of light are taken into consideration, requiring roughly 10 times more light to synchronize circadian rhythm than for vision, we must think beyond the use of electric lighting and include daylight.
As a safeguard, the IESNA RP-28-98 lists minimum light levels for older adults.
FX III. 9. Determine User Needs#10099300
40. According to Edward T. Hall in his book “The Hidden Dimension”, many people typically conduct business and relate to strangers at which distance?
See Your Answer
Place a target to indicate the correct range.
Correct
Source: Kilmer, R., Kilmer, W. O. Designing Interiors., Programming Interior Spaces, The four zones of proxemics
Social distance, including both the close and far phase, ranges from about 4 ft to 12 ft, (1.2 m to 3.6 m) and is the spatial zone conducive to informal, social, and business transactions.
Voice levels range from the normal level within the 4-foot (1.2-m) distance to a raised level near the outer limits of 12 feet (3.6 m).
The arrangement and placement of furniture within this social distance can also affect relationships of people in the space.
For example, a visitor’s chair placed across from a desk generally places the visitor approximately 9 feet (2.75 m) from the person behind the desk and creates a more formal atmosphere. In contrast, a chair at the side of the same desk places the visitor about 4 feet (1.2 m) away and appears to be more conducive to an informal meeting.
IX I 18. Perform Code Review#LC_CSL_2.1_1472
41. The plan shows a portion of the restaurant on the first (1st) floor of the Monarch Tower.
Indoor dining consists of a combination of booths with bench seating, fixed seats at the bar, and moveable tables and chairs. There are also moveable tables and chairs on the patio. The indoor dining area, excluding the booth and bar areas, is 1220 ft² (113.3 m² ), while the patio area is 20 ft² (1.85 m² ).
What is the occupant load for guests in this space? Include the waiting area. 112 persons.
Incorrect
Right Answer: What is the occupant load for guests in this space? Include the waiting area. 137|138 persons.
Source: 2021 International Building Code, CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS
The correct answer is 137|138 persons.
Refer to:
SECTION 1004 OCCUPANT LOAD
SECTION 1004.5 Areas without fixed seating,
SECTION 1004.6 Fixed SeatingBy 1004.5 Areas without fixed seating, the number of occupants should be calculated as stipulated in Table 1004.5
By 1004.6 Fixed Seating
In areas having fixed seats, the occupant load is determined by the number of fixed seats
In areas having fixed seating without dividing arms, each person should be allocated 18inches (457 mm)
Each person should be allocated 24 inches (610 mm) in areas with seating booths.
Step 1: Calculate the occupant load of the areas without fixed seats – moveable tables and chairs indoors and on the patio
Area=1220 ft² +20ft² =1240 ft²
1240 ft²/ (15 ft² per person)
= 82.6Area=113.3 m² +1.85 m² =115.1 m²
115.1 m²/ (1.39 m²per person)
= 82.8Step 2: Determine the occupant load of areas having fixed seats – bar area
There are 21 seats at the bar; therefore, the occupant load is 21 persons
Step 3: Calculate the occupant load of areas having fixed seating without dividing arms – waiting area
Bench seating, 8′ (2.4 m) long
8′ = 96 inches
96 inches/ (18 inches per person)
= 5.3Bench seating, 8′ (2.4 m) long
2.4 m = 2400 mm
2400 mm/ (457 mm per person)
= 5.3Step 4: Calculate the occupant load at seating booths
Step 4a: Four (4) booths with 66-inch (1676.4 mm) benches on each side
66 inches/ (24 inches per person)
8 benches x 2 persons/bench = 161676.4 mm/ (610 mm per person)
= 2.75 or 2 persons/bench
8 benches x 2 persons/bench = 16Step 4b: Three (3) booths with 50-inch (1270 mm) benches on each side
50 inches/ (24 inches per person)
= 2.08 or 2 persons/bench
6 benches x 2 persons/bench = 121270 mm/ (610 mm per person)
= 2.08 or 2 persons/bench
6 benches x 2 persons/bench = 12Step 5: Sum the answers from the steps above to determine the total occupant load
82.6 + 21+ 5.3 + 16 + 12 Total = 136.9 or 137 persons
*82.8+ 21+ 5.3 + 16 + 12 Total = 137.1 or 138 persons(if using metric for step 1)
Area=113.3 m² +1.85 m² =115.1 m²
115.1 m²/ (1.39 m²per person)
= 82.8Per CIDQ: “3. For calculations, how should decimal points be rounded? Any Code related calculations like Occupancy load or fixture counts, Code dictates that regardless of the decimal point designation—you always round up. For other calculations such as area, wattage per square foot, etc., you round up for .5 and above and down for < .5.”
For multiple-step questions, you would also round up at the end to avoid accumulating extra digits. Qpractice and the NCIDQ Exam typically allow for two correct answer choices.
Blueprint/Lesson: 2-3. Occupancy Types and Loads, 3. Perform Initial Code Analysis, 18. Perform Code Review, 32. Evaluate Project Feasibility and Due Diligence Part 2
FX III. 9. Determine User Needs#28917
42. Where would contrast be of BEST use in a facility for the elderly?
Stair treads
Furniture and flooring
Wayfinding signage
Corridor walls and flooring
Source: 20170ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, 504.6 Visual contrast.
All of the answer choices would be great uses for contrast in a facility for the elderly. However, stair treads would be the best choice due to their life safety implications.
Adding contrast to distinguish stair treads will help to eliminate missteps and falls in the elderly with less acute vision.
Refer to 504.6 Visual contrast for requirements for the leading 1 to 2 inches (25 to 51 mm) for the tread and landing.
FX III. 8. Create Programmatic Diagrams#10095176
43. While meeting with clients you are explaining your concept and theme for their restaurant.
Which of the following type of drawings would be the BEST to use to quickly communicate the essence of your design?
elevation
parti
detail
prototype sketch
Right Answer: parti
Source: Qpractice Answer Vault, Prototype Sketch and Parti Diagram
A parti is usually a sketch, diagram, drawing, doodle, or some other graphic that represents the direction, concept, or theme of a design. It can be very rough; the proverbial back-of-a-napkin sketch.
A prototype sketch is more similar to a test fit, or a simplified version of the concept, drawn to scale to see if the planned arrangement of spaces and furniture works within the building constraints.
_V-Mixed Residential and Outpatient Clinic#10172236
44. A three-story mixed-use building includes:
Ground floor: 4,000 ft² outpatient medical clinic where all patients can arrive and leave independently.
Second and third floors: Each floor has four apartments (8 total), permanently occupied by residents.
A central stair and an elevator serve all floors.
The clinic and the apartments share a main entrance lobby on the ground floor, with separate interior doors leading to the clinic and to the residential stair/elevator lobby.After assigning the clinic to Business Group B and the upper floors to Residential Group R-2, you calculate occupant loads for each use. These occupant loads drive several specific egress-related requirements but do not directly establish every aspect of mixed-occupancy design.
In this mixed-use building, which of the following design decisions is least directly determined by the calculated occupant loads for the clinic and the apartments?
Establishing the required fire-resistance-rated separations between the Business Group B clinic and the Residential Group R-2 apartments.
Evaluating whether dead-end corridor lengths on the residential floors exceed the permitted maximum.
Determining the number of required exits and the arrangement of those exits for each occupancy.
Sizing exit components, such as stairways and doors, to meet the minimum required exit width based on total occupant load.
Right Answer: Establishing the required fire-resistance-rated separations between the Business Group B clinic and the Residential Group R-2 apartments.
Once you know the occupancy classification, occupancy group, and gross area, you can determine the occupant load. That occupant load then drives egress-related requirements such as:
Common path of egress travel and maximum dead-end corridor length.
The number of required exits and their arrangement.
The minimum required exit width for doors, stairs, and corridors.
By contrast, the required separations between mixed occupancies are primarily controlled by:
The types of occupancies present (e.g., Group B vs. Group R-2).
The fire-resistance requirements and allowable area/height limitations for those groups.
While occupant load is critical to egress sizing and travel distance limits, it does not directly determine the fire-resistance rating between different occupancy groups in a mixed-occupancy building; that is driven by the occupancy categories and related hazard levels.
Blueprint/Lesson: 2-3. Occupancy Types and Loads, 3. Perform Initial Code Analysis, 7. Occupancy Types and Loads, 32. Evaluate Project Feasibility and Due Diligence
FX III. 9. Determine User Needs#10099213
45. Which is the study of how human beings relate to space based on their cultural background?
See Your Answer
Currently viewing correct answer key
Drag and drop the response that correctly completes the following sentence.
Incorrect
Source: Beginnings of Interior Environments, 11th Edition., The Science of Spatial Behavior
The term proxemics was created by anthropologist Edward T. Hall to describe the interrelated observations and theories about how people use space as a specialized elaboration of culture.
Proxemics deals with the issues of spacing between people, territoriality, organization of space and positioning of people in space, all relative to their culture.
FX III. 7. Validate Project Program#28897
46. The circulation of a building is included in what square foot calculation total?
Occupant area
Load factor
Net assignable area
Incidental SF
Right Answer: Occupant area
Source: Circulation Defining and Planning, Page 2
The occupant area includes the Net Area (NSF) or programmed areas, plus the circulation area, including primary and secondary circulation.
FX III. 7. Validate Project Program#24282
47. What are the three basic adjacency needs?
function, interaction and efficiency
economy, people and products
juxtaposed, transitional, interlaced
people, products and information
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Information Analysis & Synthesis
There are three basic types of adjacency needs:
people
product
information
FX II. 5. Perform Project Research and Development#23328
48. The interior designer is about to contact and coordinate with utilities, governmental agencies and other regulatory bodies as required. Which phase of design are they currently working in?
schematic design
programming and pre design
design development
construction documentation
During the Programming and Pre-Design phases of the design, the interior designer first researches, contacts, and coordinates with utilities, governmental agencies, and other regulatory bodies as required.
Blueprint/Lesson: 3. Perform Initial Code Analysis, 34 Manage Project Team
FX III. 9. Determine User Needs#MFR_PPA_1.7_1242
49. Place a marker to identify the 3 partitions where acoustical separation is MOST important.
See Your Answer
Correct
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, 2nd Edition, Architectural Acoustics, Residential Acoustic Considerations
The 3 partitions that MOST require acoustic control are those separating the sleeping areas:
The demising partition between the Condo Suite Master Bedroom (quiet) and the Daycare (noisy).
The partition between the guest bedroom (quiet and the dining room (noisy).
The partition between the office (quiet) and the living room with the television (noisy). In this case study, the office, walk-in closet, and pantry all serve as buffer spaces.
The separation between the guest bedroom and bedroom 1 is less of an issue, as both are quiet areas. Often, closets on the separating wall are used as a buffer.
SOUND CONTROL
Controlling sound transmission between interior spaces can be achieved by:Separation of noisy and quiet areas by space planning, including the use of intervening spaces to buffer sound.
Slab-to-slab partitions without penetrations and sealing /staggering any necessary penetrations.
Using double-layer wallboard and/or resilient channels.
Insulating partitions with fiberglass or other acoustic batting material.
Building a double-studded wall, especially with staggered studs, is effective but costs more due to increased labor and materials. Double-studded and staggered stud walls may also negatively affect the installation of plumbing, wiring, and ductwork.
Acoustic privacy can also be enhanced by separating the bathrooms from bedrooms with intervening closets and hallways.
IBC 1206.2 Airborne Sound sets the minimum required sound transmission class between dwelling and sleeping units.
FX III. Programming#24545
50. A criteria matrix is used for:
organizing programming information
construction schedules
design budgets
creating symmetrical floor plans
Source: Space Planning Basics, 4th Edition, Planning Methodology
A criteria or decision matrix is a means of visually representing programming information and requirements so that alternative choices are visibly represented.
It may or may not have adjacencies added such as below.
FX III. 8. Create Programmatic Diagrams#10075995
51. What programming diagram is BEST for analyzing spatial and adjacency relationships between multiple floors?
Adjacency
Stacking
Block plan
Organizational chart
Source: Ballast, D. K., FAIA, 9425, N. N. PDF – Interior Design Reference Manual: Everything You Need to Know to Pass the NCIDQ Exam, eTextbook., Information Analysis and Synthesis, Determining and Representing Space Relationships
A stacking diagram is a special type of adjacency diagram.
This type of drawing shows the locations of major spaces or departments when a project occupies more than one floor of a multistory building. A stacking diagram based on departments or major space groupings is usually prepared before each floor area is planned in detail.
_APPLICATION#10018264
52. What is the occupant load of the floor shown below?
Modular tables in the lunchroom offer the potential for flexible seating arrangements. Design for the greater load.
180
155
70
162
Source: 2021 International Building Code, 1004.4 Multiple occupancies
In this version of the item, the lunchroom is an accessory occupancy that exits through the primary space and therefore must be included in the occupant load of the primary space, especially when considering occupant load for exit capacity.
The occupant loads for the lunchroom and retail space would be calculated separately and then combined.
A typical lunchroom would contain tables and chairs, and as noted, “Modular tables in the lunchroom offer the potential for flexible seating arrangements.”
“An accessory occupancy is a space or room that is ancillary to the main occupancy but does not exceed 10% of the floor area of the main occupancy.”
IBC 303.1.2 Small assembly spaces.
The following rooms and spaces shall not be classified as Assembly occupancies:
1. A room or space used for assembly purposes with an occupant load of fewer than 50 persons and accessory to another occupancy shall be classified as a Group B occupancy or as part of that occupancy.
2. A room or space used for assembly purposes that is less than 750 square feet (70 m2) in area and accessory to another occupancy shall be classified as a Group B occupancy or as part of that occupancy.Refer to the 2021 IBC, Table 1004.5 Maximum Floor Area Allowances per Occupant for load factors.
Clothing Store (Mercantile): 9,000 /60 gross = 150 occupants By IBC 303.1.2, the lunchroom (700 ft2) is either
1. A Business occupancy 700 /150 = 5 occupants
or
2. A Mercantile occupancy (i.e., part of the main occupancy) 700 /60 = 12 occupants150 Clothing store
+ 12 Lunchroom
= 162 occupantsIBC 1004.4 Multiple occupancies: Where a building contains two or more occupancies, the means of egress requirements shall apply to each portion of the building based on the occupancy of that space. Where two or more occupancies utilize portions of the same means of egress system, those egress components shall meet the more stringent requirements of all served occupancies.
Thus, the Total Occupant Load = 162 occupants (design for the greater load).
FX III. 7. Validate Project Program#LCCD26
53. A tenant is looking to lease an approximately 3,000 square foot [279 m2] space. Combine two spaces and place a hotspot to identify which demising wall should be removed.
See Your Answer
Correct
Source: Case Study Program – Large Commercial, II. PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
Refer to the plan’s square footage.
Possible combinations:
Suites 2/3: 3096 sq. ft. [288 m2]
Fitness/Suite 3: 2648 sq. ft. [246 m2]
Training/Fitness: 2842 sq. ft. [264 m2]
Suite 4/Training: 3601 sq. ft. [335 m2]
Suites 1/2: 4218 sq. ft. [392 m2]
While the training/fitness combination is close to the desired size, these are shared spaces and would omit these facilities for other tenants; therefore, combining Suites 2 and 3 is the closest to the desired size and the best choice.
Blueprint/Lesson: 7. Spatial Awareness, Square Footage Allocations, 32. Evaluate Project Feasibility and Due Diligence Part 2
FX III. 9. Determine User Needs#23487
54. Which of the following would NOT be a feature appropriate for aging in place?
area rugs
electrical outlets and telephone jack 18 inches from the floor
lever handles
personal alert system
Right Answer: area rugs
Source: Null, R. (2013). Universal Design, 1st Edition., What is Universal Design, How to Design for Aging in Place
Area rugs create tripping hazards and are not an appropriate feature for an aging person living in their own home. Area rugs should be taped to the floor or, better, eliminated. The point at which flooring materials change should be flush.
Criteria for selecting flooring should include slip resistance and some forgiveness for dropped items, or to prevent serious harm in the case of a fall. Pattern or contrast should be gentle and can help guide the eye, or delineate a change in surface or level, as with stairs.
There are three main barriers to aging in place: difficulty getting in and out of the home, difficulty getting around the home, and the lack of an accessible bathroom.
Top universal design features for aging in place:
1. A no-step entry to the home
2. Wider doorways and hallways
3. A bedroom and bathroom on the same floor
4. Walk-in no-threshold showers
5. Reachable, rocker-style light switches
6. Lever-style door handles and faucets
7. Kitchen appliances with automatic shut-off features
8. Nonslip flooring, especially in the kitchen and bathroom
9. Abundant and even lighting
10. Grab bars in bathing areas
11. Comfortable furniture and furnishings
12. Telephones and doorbells with a low-frequency toneIX III 23. Develop Elevations#22928
55. How high should a wall-mounted accessible toilet be mounted?
18" (450 mm) AFF
16" (400 mm) - 18" (450 mm) AFF
17" (430 mm ) - 19" (480 mm) AFF
15" (380 mm) - 18" (450 mm) AFF
Right Answer: 17" (430 mm ) - 19" (480 mm) AFF
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, 604.4 Height.
604.4 Height.
The height of water closet seats shall be 17 inches (430 mm) minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum above the floor, measured to the top of the seat. Seats shall not be sprung to return to a lifted position.FX I. 3. Perform Initial Code Analysis#10015299
56. Which standards organization determines sound levels for mechanical systems in buildings?
ASHRAE
OSHA
ASTM
ANSI
Source: Corky, B. (2015). Building Systems for Interior Designers., Architectural Acoustics, Introduction, Acoustic Codes and Standards
Among other criteria, ASHRAE determines sound levels for the mechanical systems in buildings.
FX VI 16. Visualize Design#10095238
57. A useful tool to monitor and compare project cost status of budgeted and spent amounts against the “RPC/Reported Percent Complete” of the project is the following item. It’s an example of what type of tool?
graph
bar chart
pie chart
matrix
Source: Architects, A.I. O. (2013). The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice., Project Delivery, Project Budgets, Work Planning, and Monitoring, Monitoring, Key Monitoring Terms
This image demonstrates a useful and simple analytical tool for the monitoring process. Start and completion dates for the project phases are presented and incorporated into the associated graph. In this case, the project status at the end of July 2012 indicates the project’s progress ahead of both the Contract and Spent amounts.
IX IV 29. Develop Signage and Wayfinding#LC_PPA_1.5_1294-A
58. Fill in the minimum dimensions for the following accessible tactile sign to be mounted outside the women’s washroom.
See Your Answer
Correct
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Chapter 7. Communication Elements and Features
Raised characters should be 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum above the floor and located so that a clear floor area of 18 x 18 inches (455 mm) minimum, centered on the raised characters, is provided beyond the door swing.
Refer to 703 Signs
703.3.10 Height Above Floor
703.3.11 Location_ANALYSIS#23489
59. When designing an accessible toilet stall, all of the following apply EXCEPT?
an 18" (455 mm) clear space on the pull side of the door and a 12" (305 mm) clear space on the push space must be maintained
there must be at least one grab bar at the toilet
horizontal grab bars are to be mounted between 33"-36" (840 mm - 915 mm) AFF
a minimum clear space of 60" (1525 mm) is required for maneuvering in the stall
Right Answer: there must be at least one grab bar at the toilet
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, 604.5 Grab Bars
604.5.1 Fixed side-wall grab bars.
Fixed side-wall grab bars shall include a horizontal bar complying with Section 604.5.1.1 and a vertical grab bar complying with Section 604.5.1.2. The vertical grab bar at water closets primarily for children’s use shall comply with Section 609.4.2.604.5.2 Rear-wall grab bars.
The fixed rear-wall grab bar shall
1. Be 36 inches (915 mm) minimum in length,
2. Be located 6 inches maximum (150 mm) from the side wall, and
3. Extend 42 inches (1065 mm) minimum from the side wall.There are two exceptions to be aware of:
1. When the size is affected by a recessed fixture adjacent to the toilet.
2. When an AHJ requires flush controls/valves in positions that conflict with the rear grab bar only._RECALL#22922
60. What is the maximum height of an accessible sink?
30" (750 mm)
36" (900 mm)
27" (685 mm)
34" (865 mm)
Source: 2009 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Section 606 Lavatories and Sinks
606.3 Height.
The front of lavatories and sinks shall be 34 inches (865 mm) maximum above the floor, measured to the higher of the rim or counter surface. Refer to the code for exceptions.FX VI 14. Refine Design Intent#10079765
61. The ANSI / IES RP-28-20 Lighting and the Visual Environment for Older Adults and the Visually Impaired is:
A recommended practice that is not a legal document
A recommended practice that can be adopted as a legal document
A consumer guide that is for professional designers
A consumer guide that is for residential spaces only
ANSI/IES RP-28-20 is a recommended practice that can be adopted as a legal document. This document’s guidance is intended to benefit individuals, design professionals, owners and managers of commercial buildings, code and regulatory agencies, and legislative bodies. Created by the Aged and Partially Sighted Committee of the Illuminating Engineering Society, it covers a wide range of settings, including housing, senior care facilities, offices, hospitality, healthcare, commercial spaces, and places of assembly.
The population over 40 years old totals approximately 89 million people, with 63 percent experiencing vision problems. Furthermore, the older adult demographic is the fastest-growing segment of the population, with over 49 million Americans over 65.
Additionally, the prevalence of low vision significantly increases in the general senior population, particularly after age 70. Low vision is defined as vision impairment that is worse than 20/60 in the better eye and cannot be corrected medically, surgically, or with conventional eyeglasses. For those affected, it is crucial to have a visually supportive environment to maximize independence and safety.
FX VI 15. Perform Code Review#22874
62. Regarding means of egress, what is the travel distance?
a fully enclosed portion of an exit that is only used as a means of egress and provides for a protected path of egress either in a vertical or horizontal direction
the measurement of the distance between the most remote occupiable point of an area or room to the entrance of the nearest exit that serves it. It is part of the exit access and measured in a straight line along the path of egress travel
the distance between two exits within a space
the distance traveled to reach a fire rated area of refuge
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, 2nd Edition, Means of Egress, Travel Distance
Travel Distance – The overall distance from the most remote point within a room/area/or story to the exit that serves it, measured along the natural and unobstructed path of egress travel.
The building code and the life safety code may specify different maximum travel distances. In most cases, the shortest required distance applies. Also check for exceptions to the allowable travel distances based on sprinkler requirements and occupancy.
IX III 25. Develop Construction Plans#10084414
63. The New Age Eyes Doctor would like to make the Lab accessible.
See Your Answer
Place the target on the combination of dimensions A, B, and C that make the base cabinet and shelf accessible for a parallel approach.
Correct
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Chapter 3 Building Blocks, 308 Reach Ranges
Refer to Figure 308.3.2 for obstructed side reach ranges.
FX VI 16. Visualize Design#24165
64. Which of the following presentation options would be MOST useful to communicate the design of an interior space to a client who may not be adept at understanding two-dimensional drawings?
materials presentation board
2pt perspective
oblique drawing
model
A model, whether physical or virtual, is an excellent way to communicate multiple aspects of a three-dimensional interior space.
It can be invaluable for clients who may not be adept at understanding two-dimensional drawings of elevations and rendered floor plans, and more closely represents different spatial views vs an oblique or 2-point perspective.
Blueprint/Lesson: 16. Visualize Design
FX IV 10. Complete Space Planning (e.g., floorplan)#10033963
65. The interior designer must install a display rack for literature that is accessible to all KPNT employees.
See Your Answer
Two existing alcoves are being considered for the display. Place the target on the two alcove options that meet minimum/maximum code requirements for accessibility.
Incorrect
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Section 305 Clear Floor Space
Refer to Figure 305.7 Maneuvering Clearance in an Alcove
FX VI 16. Visualize Design#10095236
66. The following diagram is what type of design communication tool?
critical path method
flow chart
data visualization
infographic
Source: Karpan, Cynthia M. Programming Interior Environments. Taylor & Francis, 2019. [VitalSource Bookshelf]., Synthesis, Workflow
This is the client’s motorcycle retail and repair business workflow diagram, presented as an infographic. The point of collecting it is to gain a deep understanding of individual and procedural workflows, processes, or operations, so you can program a space that meets your client’s needs and expectations.
Workflow briefly describes how people, information, and products move through your client’s facility. Briefly describe who communicates with whom, where, when, and how frequently. You may wish to include both existing and desired workflow diagrams. Suggested format: Infographics, sociograms, affinity diagrams, tables, lists, charts.
Infographics are visual presentations of information that use design elements to convey content. Infographics express complex messages to viewers in a way that enhances their comprehension. Images are often an extension of a written article’s content, but infographics convey a self-contained message or principle.
Another example of an infographic that you should become familiar with is the CIDQ Exam Development process, excerpt below. Download a printable PDF format here.
IX I 17. Initiate Life Safety and/or Occupancy Plan#10095230
67. Which of the following changes is least likely to require a review of a building’s egress plan?
changes in fire and rescue service response or procedures
changes in the finish selections
changes in the number of people with disabilities employed
alterations to the building construction, layout, or systems
Right Answer: changes in the finish selections
Source: Codes Guidebook for Interiors, The Code Process, Plan Review and Permit
A change in finishes would not necessarily require a change to or review of the life safety or egress plan.
Some examples of changes that could require alterations to the emergency egress plan would include:
alterations to the building construction, layout, or systems
changes to the accessibility of the building
changes in the Fire and Rescue Service response or procedures
changes to legislation
changes in staffing levels
changes in the number of people with disabilities employed
changes in the services provided or products available from the building
changes in current good practice
outcomes from fire risk assessments
IX I 17. Initiate Life Safety and/or Occupancy Plan#10099392
68. What is the minimum width of an interior corridor?
(Type a numerical value)
The minimum width is 44 inches.
Correct
Source: 2021 International Building Code, CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS
Per TABLE 1020.3 MINIMUM CORRIDOR WIDTH, any facility not listed in the table shall have a corridor width of 44 inches minimum. Note that metric dimensions are not given, but that for SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
_RECALL#24113
69. Which of the following covers labeling programs and specifies the procedures and principles that third-party certifiers or ecolabelers must follow?
ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1
ISO 14024
ASHRAE Standard 62
ISO 14020
Right Answer: ISO 14024
Source: International Organization for Standardization, ISO 14000 FAMILY ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
The ISO (International Organization for Standardization) is an independent, non-governmental international organization with a membership of 164 national standards bodies.
ISO 14020 outlines a set of guiding principles for the development and use of environmental labels and declarations by practitioners of environmental labeling. It is intended that other applicable standards in the ISO 14020 series be used in conjunction with this International Standard.
Other International Standards in the series are intended to be consistent with the principles outlined in this International Standard. Other standards currently in the ISO 14020 series are ISO 14021, ISO 14024, and ISO/TR 14025
ISO 14024 establishes the principles and procedures for developing Type I environmental labelling programs that third-party certifiers, or ecolabelers, must follow.
This includes the selection of product categories, product environmental criteria, and product function characteristics, as well as assessing and demonstrating compliance and certification procedures for awarding the label.
ASHRAE is the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers
ASHRAE 62 is the specific standard for ventilation for ensuring acceptable indoor air quality (IAQ).
ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1 is the specific Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings
ix1.18 universal design - code review#LC_CSL_2.5_1222
70. Place the required dimensions for the wheelchair-accessible toilet compartments shown.
See Your Answer
Correct
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, 604.9 Wheelchair Accessible Toilet Compartments.
Refer to diagram 604.9.2 Size
Remember that a toilet with a tank requires more floor space because it projects out further from the wall.Refer also to 604.9.2.3 Alternate wheelchair accessible toilet compartments for a new option.
IX I 17. Initiate Life Safety and/or Occupancy Plan#LCCS6R-2
71. Calculate the occupant load per stair for the floor plan shown.
For safe egress, the occupant load is 79 per stair.
Incorrect
Right Answer: For safe egress, the occupant load is 94 per stair.
Source: 2021 International Building Code, TABLE 1004.5 MAXIMUM FLOOR AREA ALLOWANCES PER OCCUPANT
Calculate the occupant load per stair as follows:
Office Suite 1=18 (2578/150)
Office Suite 2=11 (1640/150)
Office Suite 3=10 (1456/150)
Fitness Center=24 (1192/50)
Training Center=110 (1650/15)
Office Suite 4=14 (1951/150)
Total 187/2=94 (2 stairs)
IX I 18. Perform Code Review#22927
72. The centerline of accessible (barrier free) toilets must be how far from the side wall or partition of a toilet compartment?
18" (455 mm)
15" (380 mm) - 19" (485 mm)
16" (405 mm) - 18" (455 mm)
17" (430mm) - 19" (485)
Right Answer: 16" (405 mm) - 18" (455 mm)
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Section 603 Toilet and Bathing Rooms
First, determine whether the toilet is in a water closet, a toilet compartment, or an ambulatory-accessible stall. If the toilet room has more than one plumbing fixture, use Section 603 Toilet and Bathing Rooms.
604.2 Location.
The water closet shall be located with a wall or partition to the rear and to one side. The centerline of the water closet shall be 16 inches (405 mm) minimum and 18 inches (455 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition. Water closets located in ambulatory accessible toilet compartments specified in Section 604.10 shall have the centerline of the water closet 17 inches (430 mm) minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition.FX VI 16. Visualize Design#10095234
73. This graphic is an example of what type of data visualization?
Visualization chart
Infographic
Parti Diagram
Cartogram
Source: First in Architecture, CREATIVE MAPPING AND DATA VISUALISATION TECHNIQUES FOR ARCHITECTS
This is an infographic, one type of data visualization technique.
Data visualization is the graphical representation of information and data. Using visual elements like charts, graphs, and maps, data visualization tools provide an accessible way to see and understand trends, outliers, and patterns in data.Rather than rely solely on text and number-heavy data to explore our site information, which is often considerable, infographics combine the data layer with an underlayer of illustration, graphics, or photographic representation to make information more accessible and quickly capture and engage the viewer with little effort to understand the information.
Mapping and data visualization are becoming more often used techniques by architecture and design professionals to visualize data and information collected from our sites and cities to inform the design and better communicate information to clients and other project collaborators.
From World Mapper
This image is sometimes confused with a cartogram. While the information in this graphic is shown over the top of an aerial photo, it is not a true map and, therefore, NOT a cartogram.
Cartograms distort the shape of geographic regions so that the area directly encodes a data variable. A typical example is to redraw every country, sizing it proportionally to population or GDP. Another example would be using color and size variation to represent changing COVID infection rates.
This could be done by circles, squares, or distorted maps by manipulating the initial map. See more examples of different types of cartogram at:
https://gisgeography.com/cartogram-maps/
https://datavizproject.com/data-type/cartogram/FX VI 16. Visualize Design#10098821
74. Charts are typically part of which design phase?
contract administration
design development
preliminary
none of these
Source: Piotrowski, C. M. Professional Practice for Interior Designers., Preparing Design Contracts; The Project Management Process; Money Management
Charts are used in a variety of ways to record, present, and communicate information and are not typically part of any specific design phase.
For example, during Design Development, a task might be to finalize relationship diagrams or charts.
Schedule management charts, such as milestone charts, may be used. Project schedules are prepared during programming as part of the revised work plan, are refined during schematics, and are updated throughout the project.
Financial management and performance reporting, including the following, may be prepared and displayed in a variety of charts and graph formats:
1. Revenues from sources—fees and sales of goods
2. Work in process and aged receivables
3. Aged accounts payable
4. Deferred income
5. Employee utilization and productivity
6. Comparisons of fees earned with budgeted estimatesIX I 17. Initiate Life Safety and/or Occupancy Plan#28895
75. How many exits are required for a convention center ballroom of 7,725 sf2 with tables and chairs?
For this item, refer to the International Building Code. CIDQ will provide relevant occupant load tables to help you answer this question.
1
2
3
4
Source: 2021 International Building Code, CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS
The occupant load of a space determines the number of exits required. The occupant load is the number of people a building code assumes will occupy a given building or portion of a building. It is based on the occupancy classification and the occupancy load factor (amount of floor occupied by one person) of that classification.
For a ballroom (assembly with tables and chairs), the occupancy load factor is 15 net. Taking the square footage of the ballroom (7,725sf2) and dividing it by the occupancy load factor will calculate the occupancy load of the space (515 occupants).
For an assembly space, any occupant load over 49 requires 2 exits. However, three exits are required for any space with an occupant load between 501 and 1000.
Per 1006.2.1.1 Three or more exits or exit access doorways.
Three exits, or exit access doorways shall be provided from any space with an occupant load of 501 to 1,000. Four exits or exit access doorways shall be provided from any space with an occupant load greater than 1000._RECALL#22876
76. What is minimum clear width of the doorway of an egress door?
30 clear width
32 clear width
36 clear width
34 clear width
Source: 2018 International Building Code, 1010.1.1 Size of doors.
1010.1.1 Size of doors.
The required capacity of each door opening shall be sufficient for the occupant load thereof and shall provide a minimum clear opening width of 32 inches (813 mm)…Note that to have 32 inches clear requires a 36″ door, to accommodate the thickness of the door leaf and hardware.
FX I. 3. Perform Initial Code Analysis#24492
77. During space planning, the designer must locate a 36-inch (915 mm) door along the main parallel corridor that leads into another room.
Limited space is available, and the door will have a latch only, with no closer.
To provide for accessibility and minimize the width of the corridor, which of the following door orientations and approach directions would best meet the criteria?
front approach; door swings into corridor
front approach; door swings into room
latch side approach; door swings into corridor
hinge side approach; door swings into room
Source: 2009 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, FIGURE 404.2.3.2(F)MANEUVERING CLEARANCE AT MANUAL SWINGING DOORS HINGE APPROACH – PUSH SIDE
According to A117, required maneuvering clearances indicate that a side approach with the door swinging into the room only requires a minimum of 42 in (1065 mm) if the door has no closer. This would allow the use of a 42 in (1065 mm) minimum corridor.
The front approach (where the door swings into the room) and the latch side approach (where the door swings into the corridor) both require a minimum of 48 in (1220 mm).
The front approach (door swings into the corridor) would require a 60 in(1525 mm) corridor (FIGURE 404.2.3.2(A).
Be aware that on the exam, code documents will not include images; you may or may not have access to a table. Therefore, we recommend creating your own flashcards to memorize these codes.
FX V 13. Identify Significant FF&E#23397
78. Window treatments are used for all of the following functional purposes except?
provide privacy
control light
reduce sound reflections within a space
unify or disguise an awkward or undesirable grouping of openings
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Wall and Window Finishes, Window Treatments
While window treatments can be used to unify or disguise an awkward or undesirable grouping of openings, this is an aesthetic and not a functional consideration/purpose.
FX IV 11. Create Initial Drawings#10095194
79. Which of the following types of drawings might be used to illustrate a detail?
section, isometric view, large-scale plan view
detail drawing, large scale plan view, perspective
detail drawing, section, perspective
large scale partial elevation, section, perspective
Right Answer: section, isometric view, large-scale plan view
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, 3rd Edition ePDF for QPractice., Chapter 50. Specialty Drawings
The terms “section” and “detail,” as used in interior construction drawings, are sometimes confused. This is because many details are section cuts through small portions of the construction, which are enlarged for inspection of the assembly.
The term “section” is also used on architectural drawings to refer to sections through entire buildings. However, not all details are sections. A detail can also be a very large-scale plan view, an isometric view, or a large-scale partial elevation. Normally, a detailed section is called a detail.
The other options each contain “perspective,” which is incorrect. While perspective drawings are used for visualization, they can have distortion and often lack the precise, measurable quality required for construction details where accuracy in dimensions and connections is critical. Details are typically drawn in orthographic or axonometric projections (like isometric) to provide unambiguous information.
FX IV 10. Complete Space Planning (e.g., floorplan)#23088
80. Direct space adjacencies would be LEAST necessary in which business type?
Amazon customer service call center
restaurant chain prep kitchen
dermatologist's office
retail specialty shoe store
Source: Karlen, M., Fleming, R. Space Planning Basics., Planning Methodology, Analyze the Data
After programming and collection of project planning factors, the analysis process might begin with making or adjusting an existing traditional organizational chart, identifying lines of authority, and grouping functions. Beyond this traditional technique, many other analyses should be made.
Articulate spatial adjacencies.
Identify working relationships, both inter- and intradepartmental, including traffic flow of personnel, visitors, and materials.
Identify public and private functions and zones.
Define special acoustic requirements.
Evaluate needs for natural light, air, and view (more simply, windows) for each function and area.
Identify groupings of facilities requiring plumbing connections.
Determine which sustainability factors are of greatest importance and recommend specific strategies, particularly those related to budget and timeline concerns.
In a call center, most of the work and transactions are conducted by telephone or electronically, so very few direct adjacencies are required. Even supervisors can monitor work electronically rather than being in or adjacent to other work spaces.
In the other three building types, either materials or people must communicate directly so a direct, physical adjacency is necessary.
Blueprint/Lesson: Complete Space Planning
PX I. 32 Evaluate Project Feasibility and Due Diligence#24414
81. In a rectangular layout 90,000 sq. ft. single-story office building, what would be of greatest concern in space planning?
dead-end corridors
horizontal exits
corridor widths
travel distances
Source: International Building Code (IBC), Chapter 10 Means of Egress, SECTION 1017 EXIT ACCESS TRAVEL DISTANCE
During space planning for such a large single-story area, the greatest concern is the travel distance to exits. After we have assessed the distance occupants must travel to get to an exit, we can ensure that the widths of corridors and the lengths of dead-end corridors do not violate the codes.
Consider that one possible width and length combination for a 90,000 sq. ft. building is 250 ft wide by 360 ft long. This size combined with typical rectangular planning of corridors would create very long distances to exits.
IX II 20. Develop Finish Plan and Specifications#30703
82. This symbol shown in the exhibit below refers to which type of wood in construction documents?
Rough wood
Plywood
Finish wood
End cut wood
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, 6th Edition, Measurement and Drafting, Figure 23.10 Material Indications in Section
The symbol refers to rough wood, often shown in sections for blocking.
FX IV 10. Complete Space Planning (e.g., floorplan)#24494
83. Which is NOT true about noise reduction between two rooms?
An increase in wall area separating the two rooms is detrimental.
Noise reduction increases with an increase in the transmission loss of the wall separating the two rooms.
The stiffness of the wall can affect noise reduction.
To improve noise reduction, the designer should place absorptive materials on both sides of the wall.
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Architectural Acoustics, Building Noise Control
Although placing absorptive materials on both sides of the wall would not hurt and would decrease the noise level in the “noisier” room, the three most important variables are:
the wall’s stiffness
the transmission loss
the common area between rooms
Blueprint/Lesson: 10. Complete Space Planning
FX IV 11. Create Initial Drawings#23550
84. In a set of construction drawings, which of the following would best be communicated using an elevation drawing?
the arrangement of wall art
partitions that extend to the ceiling and those that extend through the ceiling
the location of furniture
wall finishes, vertical dimensions, and openings
In a set of construction drawings, the best way to communicate wall finishes, vertical dimensions, and openings is through an elevation.
While the arrangement of wall art could be communicated through an elevation, this is typically not included in construction drawings.
FX VI 15. Perform Code Review#10021810
85. Demonstrate minimum clear floor space for code compliance at the water closet by placing the appropriate floor clearance.
See Your Answer
Incorrect
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Section 604 Water Closets and Toilet Compartments
This washroom is using a floor-mounted toilet, referred to in the codes as a water closet.
While toilet compartments or stalls require a 60 (1525) x 59 min (1500) deep floor clearance for a floor-mounted water closet, that does not apply within a washroom.
604.3.1 Clearance width. Clearance around a water closet shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum in width, measured perpendicular from the side wall.
604.3.2 Clearance Depth. Clearance around the water closet shall be 56 inches (1420 mm) minimum in depth, measured perpendicular from the read wall.
refer to Figure 604.3 Size of Clearance for Water Closet
FX IV 10. Complete Space Planning (e.g., floorplan)#29549
86. During a design charrette for a new hotel, the owner raises the concern of noise being heard in spaces where visitors desire a quiet environment.
In addition to designing walls and floors to make proper use of sound absorption, which collection of planning concepts will you utilize to minimize acoustic problems?
Staggering doorways in corridors to reduce the path for noise; Placing closets in the hotel rooms along the corridor to increase the area of the common wall between two rooms.
Maximize the area of the common wall between two rooms where a reduction in sound transmission is desired.
Staggering doorways in corridors to reduce the path for noise; Utilizing buffer spaces to separate noise-producing spaces; Utilize barrel-vaulted ceilings in corridors to reduce focused sounds
Grouping similar spaces; Staggering doorways in corridors to reduce the path for noise; Utilizing buffer spaces to separate noise-producing spaces; Locating furniture away from the wall that is separating spaces
Right Answer: Grouping similar spaces; Staggering doorways in corridors to reduce the path for noise; Utilizing buffer spaces to separate noise-producing spaces; Locating furniture away from the wall that is separating spaces
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Building Systems and Construction, Acoustics
In addition to designing walls and floors to retard sound transmission and making proper use of sound absorption, the following ideas can be used to help minimize acoustic problems in interior space planning:
1. Plan similar use areas next to each other. For example, placing bedrooms next to each other is better than placing a bedroom next to a noisy space, such as a kitchen.
2. Use buffer spaces such as closets and hallways to separate noise-producing spaces whenever possible. Using closets between bedrooms as a common wall is one example of this technique.
3. Stagger doorways in halls and other areas to avoid providing a straight-line path for noise. If possible, try to move furniture and other potential noise sources away from the wall separating the spaces.
4. Minimize the area of the common wall between two rooms where a reduction in sound transmission is desired.
5. Avoid room shapes that reflect or focus sound. Barrel-vaulted hallways and circular rooms, for example, produce undesirable focused sounds. Rooms that focus sound may also deprive some listeners of useful reflections.
Blueprint/Lesson: 10. Complete Space Planning
ix2.19 appliances and specialty equipment - integration and building systems#LCBS4
87. Place the section marker on the elevation to designate the section as shown for view 2, ID-1.
See Your Answer
Correct
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Elevations; Sections
The section must be through both the upper and base cabinets at the area where the dishwasher is located, as indicated by the dashed line.
FX VI 15. Perform Code Review#24529
88. What is the minimum clear floor space required for side transfer for an accessible shower?
36" x 48" (900 mm x 1200 mm)
48" x 60" (1200 mm x 1500 mm)
30" x 48" (750 mm x 1200 mm)
60" (1500mm) turning circle
Right Answer: 36" x 48" (900 mm x 1200 mm)
Source: 2009 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Chapter 6 Plumbing Elements and Facilities
The code specifies various clearance requirements depending on whether the shower is in a new or existing building and on the type of shower: transfer, standard roll-in, alternate roll-in, or tub-shower.
Designers should be familiar with the minimum shower sizes and corresponding floor clearances to ensure adequate space during planning, and then document the code-required clearances on later-phase drawings for compliance and review.
Refer to Section 608.2 Size, clearance and seat.
FX IV 11. Create Initial Drawings#10098765
89. Which drawing would an interior designer create to document the lighting system to include the location of all light fixtures specified?
switching plan
ceiling section plan
reflected ceiling plan
electrical plan
A reflected ceiling plan shows the ceiling as if it were a mirror image.
RCPs show partitions that extend to the ceiling and those that extend through the ceiling. They also show ceiling materials, building grid lines, notes calling out ceiling heights, changes in ceiling heights, location of all lights (including exit lights), sprinkler heads, air diffusers and vents, access panels, speakers, and any other item that is part of or touches the plane of the ceiling.
Blueprint/Lesson: RCP
FX I. 2. Evaluate Existing Building Conditions#24564
90. A subcontractor informs you that they must have access to the construction area to take measurements before the case goods are finished and delivered because the drawings submitted noted N.T.S. which indicates:
Not True Scale
North to South
New to Site
Not to Scale
N.T.S. (Not to Scale) is used for preliminary drawings which require field measurements.
FX IV 11. Create Initial Drawings#24267
91. In which type of drawing would you never find furniture?
section
elevation
reflected ceiling plan
parti drawing
Reflected ceiling plans show a view of the ceiling as though it were reflected onto a mirror on the floor, or as though the ceiling were transparent and it was possible to see through it. Reflected ceiling plans show partitions that extend to the ceiling and those that extend through the ceiling.
They also show ceiling materials, building grid lines, notes calling out ceiling heights, changes in ceiling heights, locations of all lights, sprinkler heads, air diffusers and vents, access panels, speakers, and any other item that is part of or touches the plane of the ceiling.
fx4.11 elevations - create initial drawings#34806
92. Which information would not be found in an elevation drawing?
Wall-mounted equipment
The manner in which an assembly of several parts is organized and connected
The configuration and finish of wall surfaces
Reference to other sections or details
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Specialty Drawings
The manner in which an assembly of several parts is organized and connected is found in a detail drawing, not an elevation.
IX II 21. Develop Furniture Plans and Specifications#SCCS12
93. Place one hotspot to identify furniture that should be moved to maintain required clearances for accessibility.
See Your Answer
Correct
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Chapter 3 Building Blocks
The placement of the coffee service cart does not allow for someone in a wheelchair to reach items without interfering with seated visitors, nor does it allow proper clearance for turning. See a better arrangement below.
IX IV 28. Develop Power, Data, and Communication Plan#86258
94. Which plan prepared by the interior designer would show the location of power/data/switching?
reflected ceiling plan
power/communications plan
power plan
construction plan
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, 3rd Edition ePDF for QPractice. Wiley Global Education US.
For a plan of this type and scale, or for larger or more complex projects, such as commercial projects, the interior designer often prepares a separate power/communications plan. This is different from the electrical engineer’s power plan.
For a smaller-scale project, the outlets are often shown on the furniture plan. The location of outlets would not be shown on the RCP, and the construction plan would become too cluttered with the required information.
Communication systems are usually shown on the same plan as the power outlets.
The interior designer is responsible for indicating the locations of items such as telephones, fax machines, communication systems, public address speakers, buzzers, and computers. Locations of telephones, public address systems, computer terminals, intercommunication devices, and security systems are the responsibility of the interior designer in conjunction with consultants.As with power outlets, the actual circuiting, wire sizes, and connections to central equipment are usually determined by the electrical engineer or the contractor responsible for installing the equipment.
The designer draws a power/communications plan that schematically shows where power is needed for special equipment. Symbols for electrical devices are generally keyed to a legend that is on the same sheet as the plan. Electrical engineers or other system specialists typically draft the detailed specifications for these devices.
One example of a power communication plan is shown below.
FX IV 11. Create Initial Drawings#24102
95. Which scale is most appropriate for design drawings that have been resized in irregular proportions?
likert scale
graphic scale
architect's scale
engineer's scale
Source: Kilmer, Rosemary, and W. Otie Kilmer. Construction Drawings and Details for Interiors. Available from: VitalSource Bookshelf, (4th Edition). Wiley Professional Development (P&T), 2021., 6 Construction Drawings, Specifications, and Contracts
The graphic scale is used for reference in drawings, typically those resized to fit a specific space for presentation, such as a magazine layout. Magazines and other publications typically reduce original drawings to fit their formats. The reproduction of the result would not be in standard increments.
Only a graphic scale would enlarge and reduce in the same proportion as the drawing.
FX IV 10. Complete Space Planning (e.g., floorplan)#23073
96. Which of the following drawings would be most needed to begin space planning in an existing building?
base plan
egress plan
reflected ceiling plan
circulation plan
Right Answer: base plan
Source: Kilmer, R. Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, 3rd Edition ePDF for QPractice. Wiley Global Education US., Floor plans, Drafting Standards
A base plan shows the layout of the existing building and is always necessary before beginning an interior design space plan.
AS-BUILT DRAWINGS (also known as record drawings or redlines).
If a structure or tenant space is going to be remodeled or have a new addition added, the original construction drawings, prepared by a design firm or qualified designer, serve as the guiding documents for the structure and its interiors.During construction, these drawings might be updated as conditions, assemblies, or materials change. Many times, the former contract documents may require the various contractors to mark up (often in color) features in the project that were revised during subsequent construction. In many large projects, particularly those involving federal or state governing agencies, these marked-up drawings are incorporated into a revised set of construction documents, showing all additions and corrections. These are usually filed with the owners or their designated agents as “as-built” documents and given a new date. These revised drawings might eventually include all changes made during construction and serve as excellent guides for future remodeling or additions. However, these construction drawings must be carefully compared to existing building conditions if they are to be used for new spaces or remodeling. In these cases, many changes may have been made over time that are not reflected in the construction drawings, so they must be updated. The interior designer is generally responsible for reviewing as-built drawings provided by others.
So the As-builts are checked, and then a BASE plan is created for the new project.
So think of As-builts as the end of a prior project and base plan as the start of a new one, BASED on As-built information as a starting point and reflecting any changes that have occurred.
FX IV 11. Create Initial Drawings#24195
97. What are the three systems used for standard size drafting sheets?
ISO, ANSI, Architectural
Architectural, ANSI, Imperial
Architectural, CAD, BIM
ISO, BOMA, Architectural
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Measurement and Drafting, Drafting of Construction Drawings
For either manual drafting or CAD, standard sheet sizes are used in the interior design, architectural and engineering industries. These standard sizes are based on one of three systems:
Architectural
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
IX III 23. Develop Elevations#35241
98. On what drawing in a construction drawing set would you MOST likely find the dimension noting the height of a handrail for a stair?
Elevation drawing of the stair
Elevation of the stair treads
Section drawing of the stair nosing
Section drawing of the handrail
Right Answer: Elevation drawing of the stair
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Specialty Drawings
The height of a handrail for a stair would typically be noted on an elevation drawing of the entire stair. This would show the stair itself along with any other elements in relationship to the stair (such as the handrail). The dimension string is most appropriate here, as it shows how high the handrail is above the stairs.
Sections of the handrail itself, nosing, etc., are too detailed to show an overall dimension such as handrail height and typically contain more specific information on how those elements are to be constructed, not the overall mounting height of those elements.
FX IV 11. Create Initial Drawings#30709
99. In the image below, the arrow is calling out what common type of finish treatment?
Wall board
Ship lap
Board and batten
Wainscot
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Wall and Window Finishes
Wainscoting is paneling that lines the lower part of the walls of a room, typically below a chair rail molding.
FX I. 1. Perform Site Analysis#28896
100. Determine the gross area of an office space with a net area of 6,000SF and an efficiency factor of .75:
4,500 SQ FT
8,000 SQ FT
2,000 SQ FT
8,500 SQ FT
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Measurement and Drafting, Determining the Total Required Area
In order to calculate the gross area of the office space, you need to divide the net area by the efficiency factor.
6000 / .75=8000
Blueprint/Lesson: 1. Perform Site Analysis
FX I. 3. Perform Initial Code Analysis#10037112
101. For the allowable area of a building with mixed-use and occupancy, which of the following is NOT true:
Accessory occupancies cannot be more than 10 percent of their respective floor area.
Accessory area occupancies of a Type “B” building are not required to be separated from their main occupancies.
An excess of 10 percent accessory occupancy area per building area is allowed in sprinklered buildings.
The allowable area of the building is based on the building's main occupancy.
Source: 2021 International Building Code, 508.2.3 Allowable building area
The correct answer is “An excess of 10 percent accessory occupancy area per building area is allowed in sprinklered buildings.” because all of the ARE true.
“The allowable area of a building shall be based on the applicable provisions of Section 506 for the main occupancy of the building. Aggregate accessory occupancies shall not occupy more than 10 percent of the floor area of the story in which they are located and shall not exceed the tabular values for nonsprinklered buildings in Table 506.2 for each such accessory occupancy.”
And …
508.2.4 Separation of occupancies“No separation is required between accessory occupancies and the main occupancy.”
Refer to the code for exceptions.Blueprint/Lesson: 7. Occupancy Types and Loads, 32. Evaluate Project Feasibility and Due Diligence Part 2
FX I. 2. Evaluate Existing Building Conditions#28918
102. The design of many beach house interiors have a similar design and aesthetic.
This is a primarily a result of what type of social and cultural influence?
regionalism
political conditions
symbolism
economic conditions
Right Answer: regionalism
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Social & Cultural Influences
The availability of building materials, the climate, and culture are some of the contextual influences behind the differences in buildings across the world.
Regionalism is related to the concept of vernacular architecture, which refers to buildings by local trades. Sometimes referred to as ‘architecture without architects,’ this style of building develops over time to become more efficient and more responsive to its context.
Regionalism in architecture refers to the context and customs of building in a particular region, designed to perform based on specific knowledge of the climate, geology, geography, and topography. Regional architecture follows developments in vernacular architecture, while incorporating modern building materials and technologies.
Regionalism in interior design also reflects the local geographic area, much like the concept of vernacular architecture. A similar design and aesthetic style result from common features, materials, and natural inspiration found in this type of region. The local climate, culture, environment, and materials may influence these.
Whether it’s a large vacation home or a small fishing shack, you can typically find relaxing blues and greens that reflect the tones of the water, as well as nautical inspirations such as rope, anchor designs, or beautiful, aged wood exposed to the elements.
FX I. 1. Perform Site Analysis#10015468
103. Designing and specifying interior doors in a high-traffic area of a hospital or other healthcare facility utilizing a “kit-of-parts” replacement strategy is what type of design approach?
longevity
resiliency
sustainability
recyclability
Right Answer: resiliency
Source: Inhabitat, Resilient Design: Is Resilience the New Sustainable Design?
One way to build resilience into a building is with interior components that will endure years upon years of use.
For example, most commercial interiors use standard wood doors. Occasionally, high pressure laminate doors are used for greater longevity, but for true durability an interior designer needs to specify doors built to last and resistant to tearing, chips and cracks.
The most resilient doors are those that employ a “kit of parts” approach so that when damage does occur, only the damaged piece needs to be replaced and not the entire door.
FX I. 1. Perform Site Analysis#24161
104. When does a designer typically create an inventory of existing furniture and equipment that will be reused in a project?
during the site analysis
during the client interview
during preparation of the proposal
during the design development phase
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Site Analysis
Site analysis is the investigation and evaluation of conditions within which the project will be completed. It is a form of due diligence, as the designer can only competently design the interior space after understanding the project’s context.
Site analysis may include the following tasks:
walking through the space
reviewing the architectural plans (if any)
measuring the space
photographing the space
determining views from the space
understanding both the neighborhood and social context of the project
documenting the space with drawings, including locating structure, utilities, built-ins, and other relevant construction elements
making an inventory of existing furniture and equipment that will be reused; this may be considered an ancillary or additional service in terms of the contract
analyzing codes and regulations that pertain to the project
determining sustainability requirements and goals for the project
Blueprint/Lesson: 1. Perform Site Analysis
FX I. 1. Perform Site Analysis#23048
105. The use of particleboard as part of a construction detail should be carefully evaluated in terms of the particleboard’s
VOC content
availability
strength
permeability
Right Answer: VOC content
In existing projects, older materials may contribute to unhealthy interior air quality. Most traditional particleboard contains formaldehyde and may also contain other volatile organic compounds; however, newer products offer lower VOC (volatile organic compounds) options.
Exposure to VOCs can lead to eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. More serious long-term effects can include damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system, and some VOCs are linked to cancer.
The other options are incorrect because particleboard is readily available and strong enough for use in architectural woodwork details and other applications. Permeability, which is the ability to transfer moisture, is not a factor because the particleboard would only be used as a substrate for other finishes.
While you must pay attention to the substrate used for specific design details that may be heavier, you can find particleboard that is strong enough. Thus, the primary concern is VOCs and their impact on indoor air quality. The use of particle board must always be weighed against the potential for off-gassing and the associated VOCs.
Blueprint/Lesson: Environmental Impacts, Air Quality
FX I. 1. Perform Site Analysis#23378
106. One of the most effective ways to minimize glare and heat gain when using daylighting in a building that has large, high south facing windows is?
use a non reflective light filtering window treatment
use tempered glass that has been tinted for all south facing windows
use a light shelf
do not use the daylighting strategy in this scenario as the disadvantages outweigh the advantages
A problem with daylighting, especially with large, south-facing windows, is the glare and heat gain from direct sunlight.
One of the most effective ways architects solve this problem is by using a light shelf that reflects direct daylight onto the ceiling while shading the lower portions of the window and the interior of the room.
Blueprint/Lesson: 1. Perform Site Analysis
FX I. 1. Perform Site Analysis#24341
107. Poor indoor air quality can be the result of?
chemical contaminants from outdoor sources
biological contaminants
mold spores
all of these
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Sustainable Design, Causes of Poor Indoor Air Quality
There are 4 basic causes of poor IAQ:
chemical contaminants from indoor sources
chemical contaminants from outdoor sources
biological contaminants, including mold spores
poor ventilation
Blueprint/Lesson: Environmental Impacts, Air Quality
FX I. 1. Perform Site Analysis#24302
108. Ventilation does all of the following EXCEPT?
provides oxygen
remove odor
carry away contaminants
increase evaporation and heat loss through convection
Right Answer: increase evaporation and heat loss through convection
Source: Kilmer, R., Kilmer, W. O. Designing Interiors., Interior Environmental Control and Support Systems
Ventilation refers to the process of replacing all or part of a space’s air to control temperature and other factors. It is required to provide fresh oxygen, remove carbon dioxide, eliminate odors, and carry away contaminants.
It includes the circulation of air within a building’s spaces as well as the exchange of air to the exterior. Interiors can be maintained at the desired temperature by tempering the air in the space with heating and cooling methods.
Ventilation also is essential in introducing fresh air to replace air that can become stale when it is recirculated within a closed building or space. Inadequate ventilation can also produce what has been termed “sick building syndrome” due to concentrated indoor air pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Blueprint/Lesson: Environmental Impacts, Air Quality
FX I. 2. Evaluate Existing Building Conditions#10037097
109. Other than occupancy type, what is the primary factor in determining the allowable area of a building?
use type of building
maximum occupancy load
building construction type
existence of sprinkler system
Right Answer: building construction type
Source: 2021 International Building Code, Section 506, Building Area
The correct answer is the building construction type.
The first two primary factors in determining the allowable area are the Occupancy Classification and Type of Construction. Once these are determined, the next factor is whether the building has an automatic sprinkler system.
Refer to IBC – 2021, Section 506, Building Area:
506.1 General.
“The floor area of a building shall be determined based on the type of construction, occupancy classification, whther there is an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout the building and the amount of building frontage on public way or open space.”
Refer to: TABLE 506.2 ALLOWABLE AREA FACTOR (At = NS, S1, S13R, S13D or SM, as applicable) IN SQUARE FEETa, b
Blueprint/Lesson: 2. Evaluate Existing Building Conditions, Construction Types
FX I. 3. Perform Initial Code Analysis#24425
110. Which test is NOT used to determine flammability of upholstery fabric?
Steiner Tunnel Test
Radiant Panel Test
Smolder Resistance Test
Smoke Density Test
Right Answer: Radiant Panel Test
Source: ASTM E648 (NFPA 253), Qpractice Glossary
The Radiant Panel Test, ASTM E648 (NFPA 253), is NOT used to test the flammability of fabrics.
This test measures the flame spread of flooring systems, like carpets, in corridors and exits. Radiant heat is applied using a gas-fueled panel inclined at a 30-degree angle over horizontally installed flooring mounted on concrete (just like actual carpeted corridors). This test simulates thermal radiation levels from an adjacent fire and rates different materials for use in different occupancies.
The Steiner Tunnel Test, ASTM E84 (UL 723), is used to evaluate the flame spread of wall finishes.
The Smoke Density Test, also called the Smolder Resistance Test, ASTM E662 (NFPA 258), measures the amount of smoke from a flaming or smoldering material for wall finishes.
Blueprint/Lesson: 3. Perform Initial Code Analysis
FX I. 3. Perform Initial Code Analysis#MR_PPA_1.6_10035192
111. Place the target to identify the most appropriate finish material for the flooring in the following areas in the residence:
See Your Answer
kitchen
laundry and utility room
Correct
Source: Tile Council of North America
For tile and natural stone on the floor, slip resistance is the main consideration, especially in bathrooms or industrial installations.
DCOF, or the dynamic coefficient of friction, is a measurement that determines how much friction there is on wet, level floors when walked on. The DCOF testing results help determine whether or not a tile surface could contribute to someone slipping and falling.
There are many different test methods related to slip resistance. The tile industry uses ANSI A137.1 Section 9.6, also called the AcuTest™. This method measures the dynamic coefficient of friction (DCOF).
CT1 has a DCOF rating of ≥ 0.60 and is the best choice for the kitchen, laundry, and utility rooms. It has one of the highest floor tile ratings regarding its slip resistance. This rating is especially important where wet and oily/greasy materials may exist, like in a kitchen or laundry room where liquid soaps and other cleaning products have spilled.
CT1, a porcelain material with a minimal grout joint and plank size/ shape, will also provide a flatter floor, allowing a wheelchair to move more easily over its finish surface.
Here are some common scenarios and recommended DCOF ratings:
Dry & Level: Any
DRY, level, interior public areas, such as hotel lobbies, apartments, public buildings, shopping centers (excluding food areas), hospitals, elevator lobbies, interior hallways, cafeterias, retail stores, theatre lobbies, and other dry health service areas.Wet & Level: ≥ 0.42
Interior Level public areas that are likely to be walked on when WET, such as entry foyers of hotels, offices and other public buildings, supermarkets (entry areas, food preparation, produce, or any area where water may occasionally be present), shopping center food courts, and toilet facilities, and production areas not involving oil or fats.Exterior Applications or Pool Decking: ≥ 0.60
Service or recreation areas involving constant water where light or no footwear is used, such as public showers, steam rooms, swimming pool decks, and locker rooms. Pool Decking (and other wet areas with minimal footwear) pedestrian areas that could be exposed to water (excluding ice) but are otherwise reasonably maintained, where footwear is typically used, such as walkways, gazebos, or patio areas.Oils: ≥ 0.60
Service or production areas involving oils, greases, or fats such as automotive fluids, catering areas, areas involving deep-fry and grill equipment, other food preparation areas involving grease or oil. BOH (Back of the house) quick service or family-style restaurants or delicatessens. Any area where combined grease and water accumulation may be present.Ramps & Inclines: ≥ 0.65
Inclined areas or ADA compliant ramps such as stairs and stair treads/nosings, wheelchair ramps, workshop bays (where no oil is present), sidewalks, and driveways where pedestrian traffic is normally present.Blueprint/Lesson: 3. Perform Initial Code Analysis
FX I. 1. Perform Site Analysis#10099036
112. Site analysis is a process that investigates and evaluates conditions under which a project will be completed.
See Your Answer
Drag and drop the term that correctly completes the following sentence.
Correct
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Site Analysis, Due Diligence Site Investigation
One of the most basic tasks the interior designer must perform as part of due diligence is to acquire a thorough understanding and documentation of the space where the project will be located.
If the building being designed is not yet under construction, the interior designer must obtain a copy of the architect’s drawings and review them. If the building already exists, whether newly constructed or older, the designer must review any available drawings and visit the site to understand the site context.
Blueprint/Lesson: 1. Perform Site Analysis, 32. Evaluate Project Feasibility and Due Diligence
FX I. 3. Perform Initial Code Analysis#10021768
113. A new client comes to you with a potential project for a data management firm handling preauthorization and insurance verification. The proposed location is an existing office on the 12th floor of Monarch Tower.
Based on the program, what is the initial estimate for the greatest number of total occupants for the office?
I. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Monarch Condo Tower is a twelve (12) story building. The building is classified as mixed-use occupancy, is fully sprinkled, and is constructed on a concrete slab with a glass curtain wall system. Typical sill height is 24” [610mm] AFF and head height is 9’-0” [2.7m] AFF.
The building site offers unobstructed views of an urban lake to the south and the city to the east.
II. PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
The penthouse (12th) floor area is divided into four (4) office, commercial, and residential spaces.
Suite 1: KPNT Financial Services Office 2,392 SF [222.2 m2]
Suite 2: Condo Suite 2,663 SF [247.4 m2]
Suite 3: Daycare 1,611 SF [149.7 m2]
Suite 4: Restaurant 2,426 SF [225.3 m2]90
48
123
238
Source: 2021 International Building Code, 1004.8 Concentrated business use areas.
The question asks for the initial estimate for the greatest number of total occupants for the office.
This is a tricky question because it does not ask for the occupant load for the entire floor, but rather represents a distractor-type information that you may see on the exam.
Electronic data processing facilities that function as call centers and insurance claims pre-authorization have a higher density of occupants than would typically be expected in a typical business setting.
Per the 2021 International Building Code, where approved by the building officials in the AHJ, and based upon a concentrated business use area occupancy of 50 SF of gross occupiable floor space, the maximum number of occupants is
2392 SF /50 = 48
or
222.2/4.65 m² = 48Round up.
FX I. 3. Perform Initial Code Analysis#24496
114. Which is the MOST important requirement for exits?
protected by fire-rated construction
required in buildings without sprinklers
limited in length
corridors or stairways
Exits are not limited in length (because they are protected) and can be as simple as a door; they are required in all buildings.
FX I. 1. Perform Site Analysis#24511
115. While the interior designer is not responsible for structural design, they can design details to accommodate building movement caused by all of the following EXCEPT
floor deflection
building expansion
seismic events
wind sway
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Structural Systems, Building Movement
Expansion joints should be incorporated into the original building design by the architect. The interior designer can create slip joints to accommodate floor deflection and wind sway, and also design ceiling systems to withstand seismic events.
In commercial buildings, when partitions extend to the structure above, the top of the partition must include a slip joint to prevent damage to the structure. This is essential to prevent damage to the wall if the structural floor above experiences deflection.
1. Select the maximum height above the finished floor for the accessible urinal rim.
See Your Answer
Correct
Source: 2009 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, 605 Urinals
605.2 Height and depth.
Urinals shall be of the stall type or shall be of the wall hung type with the rim at 17 inches (430 mm) maximum above the floor…Refer to FIGURE 605.2(A)HEIGHT AND DEPTH OF URINAL WALL HUNG TYPE
#10098809
2. In regards to means of egress, what is the furthest common path of egress travel distance?
the distance between two exits within a space
the measurement from the most remote occupiable point of an area or room that an occupant must travel before two separate and distinct paths of egress travel to two exits becomes available
the distance traveled to reach a fire rated area of refuge
a fully enclosed portion of an exit that is only used as a means of egress and provides for a protected path of egress either in a vertical or horizontal direction
Source: 2021 International Building Code, CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS
Common Path of Egress Travel – That portion of exit access travel distance measured from the most remote point of each room, area, or space to that point where the occupants have separate and distinct access to two exits or exit access doorways.
Blueprint/Lesson: 15. Perform Code Review
#22914
3. Your drawing solution includes a kitchen with an island and a second prep sink. Which electrical outlets must be GFI?
all those within 24" (600 mm) of the prep sink and any other water sources
all within 36" (900 mm) of the prep sink and any other water sources
all within 48" (1200 mm) of the prep sink and any other water sources
all within 72" (1500 mm) of the prep sink and any other water sources
Right Answer: all within 72" (1500 mm) of the prep sink and any other water sources
Source: NFPA 70, National Electrical Code (NEC), 210. Branch Circuits, 210.8
All receptacles serving a countertop, such as in kitchens and bathrooms, shall have ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel, and all receptacles within 6ft, or 72″ (1.8 m) from the top inside edge of the bowl of a sink.
#75144
4. In order to support caring for an elderly family member, the designer needs to add an accessible bathroom in the client’s home. The designer must take space from two closets in two bedrooms to make enough room. the client wants a tub/shower, a toilet and lavatory.
They will install a permanent tiled shower seat. For the smallest size tub available, what is the finished size of the alcove?
30 (760) x 30 (760)
28 (712) x 30 (760)
30 (760) min x 60 (1525)
30 (760) min x 72 (1830)
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, SECTION 607 BATHTUBS
The smallest drop in and undermount tubs start at sizes 45 inches (1145 mm) long x 30 inches wide (760 mm). A standard size tub is 30 inches (760 mm) x 72 inches (1830 mm).
Per A117 and ADA, the required size would be the length of the tub + 15″ (380 mm) for the seat.
Permanent seats of a minimum depth of 15 inches (380 mm) shall be positioned at the head end of the bathtub.
45+15=60
or
1145 +380=1525Note that additional tolerance for the variation in finished wall will also be required.
#LC_PPA_1.5_1294-A
5. Fill in the minimum dimensions for the following accessible tactile sign to be mounted outside the women’s washroom.
See Your Answer
Correct
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Chapter 7. Communication Elements and Features
Raised characters should be 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum above the floor and located so that a clear floor area of 18 x 18 inches (455 mm) minimum, centered on the raised characters, is provided beyond the door swing.
Refer to 703 Signs
703.3.10 Height Above Floor
703.3.11 Location#22929
6. Clearance around an accessible toilet must be at least:
48" W (1200 mm) along back wall x 56" (1420 mm) along side wall
36" W (900 mm) along back wall x 48" (1200 mm) along side wall
60" (1500 mm) along the rear wall and 56" (1420 mm) along the side wall
60" (1500 mm) turning radius/circle
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, 603.2 Clearances.
Please review FIGURE 604.3 SIZE OF CLEARANCE FOR WATER CLOSET
604.3.1 Clearance width.
Clearance around a water closet shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum in width, measured perpendicular from the sidewall.604.3.2 Clearance depth.
Clearance around the water closet shall be 56 inches (1420 mm) minimum in depth, measured perpendicular from the rear wall.#RCS2
7. Select the area in the residence from which travel distance is calculated.
See Your Answer
Currently viewing correct answer key
Incorrect
Source: 2021 International Building Code, SECTION 1017, EXIT ACCESS TRAVEL DISTANCE
Don’t overlook areas like a shower, balcony, or closet when calculating Travel Distance – the distance will be measured from the most remote point within a story to the entrance to an exit along the natural and unobstructed path of egress travel.
As you can see there would be 3 possible options, but you don’t need to measure to see that the blue option would be the furthest or most remote point.
2021 International Building Code
1017.3 Measurement
Exit access travel distance shall be measured from the most remote point of each room, area, or space along the natural and unobstructed path of horizontal and vertical egress travel to the distance to an exit.See also – IBC 2021 Table 1017.2 Exit Access Travel Distance
#10100003
8. Review the image shown.
See Your Answer
Drag and drop the response that correctly completes the sentence below:
Correct
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Means of Egress, Means of Egress Components
The exit discharge would be between the front doors and the public way (sidewalk).
Means of egress consists of:
Exit access — leads from any occupied portion of the building to an exit.
Exit — provides a protected path between the exit access and exit discharge or public way.
Exit discharge —portion of an exit between the termination of an exit and a public way.
Public Way – any street, alley, or similar area open to the outside air leading to a street and open to the public for permanent public use with a clear width and height of not less than 10 feet (3048 mm).
Area of Refuge — An area where persons unable to use stairways can wait for assistance during an emergency.
See 2021 International Building Code, Chapter 2 Definitions
#10095232
9. This space plan showing the effect of “social distancing” on a typical office layout is an example of what?
Data Visualization
CPM Diagram
Building Information Management
Information Densification
Source: Tableau, Data Visualization Beginner’s Guide: A Definition, Examples, and Learning Resources
Data visualization is the graphical representation of information and data. Using visual elements such as charts, graphs, and maps, data visualization tools provide an accessible way to see and understand trends, outliers, and patterns in data.
When considering data visualization, the first thoughts often include simple bar graphs or pie charts. While these may be integral to visualizing data and a common baseline for many data graphics, the right visualization must be paired with the right set of information. Simple graphs are only the tip of the iceberg. Many visualization methods can present data in compelling and exciting ways.
In this example, by assigning each item of furniture a minimum radius, the software colors overlapping radii red. The red bubbles show where minimum social distancing cannot be maintained, and the furniture plan will need to be adjusted or reevaluated to maintain these distances.
Other common types of data visualization include:
Charts
Tables
Graphs
Maps
Infographics
Dashboards
Tableau diagram used with permission from the Flerlage Twins
Blueprint/Lesson: 16. Visualize Design
#SCCS5-3
10. Place the restroom accessories in the following elevation at the required height.
See Your Answer
Currently viewing correct answer key
Not all parts are used.
Incorrect
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, 604.5 Grab Bars
The 42″ horizontal grab bar (the longer of the two horizontal bars) should be in the range of 33” [840 mm] and 36” [900mm] AFF and can be aligned with the profile of the rear grab bar.
It should be located 12 inches [305 mm] maximum from the rear wall. For visual reference, a typical toilet tank is approximately 10 inches deep.
The 18″ vertical grab bar should be located with the bottom of the bar located between 39” [990 mm] and 41” [1040mm] AFF and with the centerline of the bar located between 39” [990 mm] and 41” [1040mm] from the rear wall.
#24456
11. An accessible ramp must have landing with a minimum area of 5’x5’ (1525mm x 1525mm):
every 12 lineal feet (3.65m)
wherever the ramp changes direction
at the top and bottom of the ramp
at the top and bottom of the ramp and wherever ramp changes direction
Right Answer: wherever the ramp changes direction
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, CHAPTER 4: ACCESSIBLE ROUTES, SECTION 405 Ramps
Refer to 405.7 Landings and 405.7.4 Change in Direction
405.7 Landings. Ramps shall have landings at the top and the bottom of each ramp run. Landings shall comply with 405.7.
405.7.4 Change in direction.
Ramps that change direction between runs at landings shall have a clear landing 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum by 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum.To answer this question, we need to be familiar with the codes mentioned above and apply them. Let’s apply them to this question and a ramp scenario.
Why do we need to have a space that is 5’x5′ (1525 mm x 1525 mm)?
Because a person in a wheelchair needs a minimum of 60″ (1525 mm) diameter turnaround to maneuver.Where would a person in a wheelchair most often need to maneuver?
At the bottom of the ramp, at the top of the ramp, and wherever there is a change of direction.The code specifies that a minimum 60-inch (1525 mm) by 60-inch (1525 mm) area is required for a change of direction between runs at landings.
While the code also specifies that ramps shall have landings at the top and bottom of each run, this question does not indicate a change in direction at either end of this accessible ramp.
Therefore, the best answer for this question is “wherever the ramp changes direction.”
Blueprint/Lesson: 10. Complete Space Planning, 15. Perform Code Review, 18. Perform Code Review
#LCCS6R
12. Review the plan for Landmark Center below.
The occupant load for the fitness center is 24 occupants.
Correct
Source: 2021 International Building Code, TABLE 1004.5 MAXIMUM FLOOR AREA ALLOWANCES PER OCCUPANT
The Fitness Center is an Exercise Room with an Occupant Load Factor of 50 gross. Refer to Table 1004.5.
Calculate the occupancy load as follows:
1192 ft2 / 50ft2 = 23.84
[110.7 m²] / 4.65 m²
or 24 occupantsNote: For any code-related calculations like Occupancy Load or fixture counts, the code dictates that regardless of the decimal designation—Always round up. For other calculations such as area or wattage per sq. ft., the rule of thumb applies—round-up for number >.5 and down for number <.5.
#10098807
13. What determines the maximum travel distance?
furthest point of the tenant space to an exit
number of exits
entry to the exit
number of sprinklers
Source: 2021 International Building Code, CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS
1017.3 Measurement.
Exit access travel distance shall be measured from the most remote point of each room, area, or space along the natural and unobstructed path of horizontal and vertical egress travel to the entrance to an exit.Blueprint/Lesson: 15. Perform Code Review, 17. Initiate Life Safety and/or Occupancy Plan
#24199
14. All of the following are true about a building information model except?
model can be used to create an estimate of materials, door schedules or cost estimates
allows information about building components like doors and windows to be attached and included in the model
is a two dimensional drawing created using computer software
allows all members of the project team to share the model through computer networking
Right Answer: is a two dimensional drawing created using computer software
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Measurement and Drafting, Building Information Modeling
In traditional drafting, whether manual or CAD-based, drawings are two-dimensional representations of a project’s three-dimensional physical attributes. In contrast, building information modeling (BIM) involves creating a three-dimensional model of a building or its interior using specialized BIM software. As the project progresses, more details are incorporated into the model, which is then shared with the entire project team. Information can be extracted from the model for various purposes, including creating schedules, performing calculations, and generating drawings. This capability allows multidisciplinary teams to work on the same model in real time and to see changes and improvements instantly.
The three-dimensional model includes both geometric and non-geometric information, such as component materials and performance characteristics. It serves as a central hub for project data, facilitating collaboration and informed decision-making. For visualization purposes, the model offers a realistic, virtual representation of the building before construction begins, helping all stakeholders understand the project’s design and functionality.
Since all the information about the building is contained in a single model, individual drawings—such as floor plans, elevations, and details—can be easily produced. A BIM project is often referred to as a “smart” model because it encompasses more than just lines representing objects; the individual objects, such as doors and partitions, have associated information. The model enables teams to identify and resolve conflicts among building systems (such as mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) before they arise during construction, thereby saving time and costs.
Consequently, the model can be used to estimate materials, door schedules, and costs. Its three-dimensional, dimensionally accurate nature allows the software to detect interferences, such as conflicts between structural beams and heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) ductwork, helping prevent problems during construction.
#10099392
15. What is the minimum width of an interior corridor?
(Type a numerical value)
The minimum width is 44 inches.
Correct
Source: 2021 International Building Code, CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS
Per TABLE 1020.3 MINIMUM CORRIDOR WIDTH, any facility not listed in the table shall have a corridor width of 44 inches minimum. Note that metric dimensions are not given, but that for SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
#10095224
16. With regards to wayfinding, what are Lynch’s five mapping elements?
Paths, Edges, Districts, Nodes, Landmarks
Districts, Aisles, Nodes, Monuments, Edges
Transitions, Nodes, Paths, Edges, Landmarks
Paths, Signs, Landmarks, Towns, Transitions
Source: Binggeli, Corky. Interior Graphic Standards: Student Edition., Environmental and Behavioral Issues, Wayfinding
Lynch’s research identified five categories of elements people use to map an environment, forming a system of navigation. The same types of elements can be used in architecture and interiors.
Paths: Channels of movement, like a corridor.
Edges: Boundaries that break, contain, or run parallel to forms; a wall or finish transition
Districts: Areas of recognizable identity; for example, a food court or breakout seating groups
Nodes: Places of intense activity, such as an entry lobby
Landmarks: Points of reference that are visually distinguishable, like a sculpture
Answer Vault: What is Wayfinding?
Blueprint/Lesson: 14. Refine Design Intent, 29. Develop Signage and Wayfinding
#22927
17. The centerline of accessible (barrier free) toilets must be how far from the side wall or partition of a toilet compartment?
15" (380 mm) - 19" (485 mm)
17" (430mm) - 19" (485)
18" (455 mm)
16" (405 mm) - 18" (455 mm)
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Section 603 Toilet and Bathing Rooms
First, determine whether the toilet is in a water closet, a toilet compartment, or an ambulatory-accessible stall. If the toilet room has more than one plumbing fixture, use Section 603 Toilet and Bathing Rooms.
604.2 Location.
The water closet shall be located with a wall or partition to the rear and to one side. The centerline of the water closet shall be 16 inches (405 mm) minimum and 18 inches (455 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition. Water closets located in ambulatory accessible toilet compartments specified in Section 604.10 shall have the centerline of the water closet 17 inches (430 mm) minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition.#22924
18. The controls for all accessible wall mounted restroom accessories must be located how many inches/mm AFF for a SIDE reach:
9" (230 mm) - 44" (1100 mm)
15" ( 380 mm) - 44" (1100 mm)
9" (230 mm) - 48" (1200 mm)
15" (380 mm) - 48" (1220 mm)
Right Answer: 15" (380 mm) - 48" (1220 mm)
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Section 309 Operable Parts
The controls for restroom accessories, such as towel dispensers and hand dryers, should be mounted within reach of the operable parts. For a side reach, these are per TABLE 603.6 MAXIMUM REACH DEPTH AND HEIGHT.
For example, a maximum of 48 (1220) when over a projection that is .5 (13mm) deep.
For the range of side reach, see Section 308 Reach Ranges.
The reach will depend upon whether there is clear, unobstructed floor space and ranges from 15 (380) to 48 (1220).
For an obstructed reach, see 308.2.2 Obstructed high reach.Download the Bobrick Planning Guide For Accessible Restrooms
#10079635
19. Which case is considered the most legible for both neurotypical and neurodiverse individuals?
Is it lowercase, Title Case, ALL CAPS, or SMALL CAPS?
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, 703 Signs
If you chose Title Case, You’re correct.
Though most regional or jurisdictional building codes require text to be in all caps for fire safety and egress signage, studies have shown that title case and sentence case, which use a combination of uppercase and lowercase characters, are much easier to read.
703.2 Visual Characters.
703.2.2 Case.
Characters shall be uppercase, lowercase, or a combination of both.Where raised characters are required, characters shall be uppercase.
703.3 Raised Characters.
703.3.3 Case.
Characters shall be uppercase.#10021815
20. Place all code required floor clearances for the washroom.
See Your Answer
Currently viewing correct answer key
Incorrect
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Section 603 Toilet and Bathing Rooms; Section 604 Water Closets and Toilet Compartments
The floor clearances required are:
603.2.1 Turning Space (washroom or toilet and bathing room)
604. 3 Clearance (water closet)
606.2 Clear Floor Space (lavatory)#24113
21. Which of the following covers labeling programs and specifies the procedures and principles that third-party certifiers or ecolabelers must follow?
ISO 14024
ASHRAE Standard 62
ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1
ISO 14020
Source: International Organization for Standardization, ISO 14000 FAMILY ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
The ISO (International Organization for Standardization) is an independent, non-governmental international organization with a membership of 164 national standards bodies.
ISO 14020 outlines a set of guiding principles for the development and use of environmental labels and declarations by practitioners of environmental labeling. It is intended that other applicable standards in the ISO 14020 series be used in conjunction with this International Standard.
Other International Standards in the series are intended to be consistent with the principles outlined in this International Standard. Other standards currently in the ISO 14020 series are ISO 14021, ISO 14024, and ISO/TR 14025
ISO 14024 establishes the principles and procedures for developing Type I environmental labelling programs that third-party certifiers, or ecolabelers, must follow.
This includes the selection of product categories, product environmental criteria, and product function characteristics, as well as assessing and demonstrating compliance and certification procedures for awarding the label.
ASHRAE is the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers
ASHRAE 62 is the specific standard for ventilation for ensuring acceptable indoor air quality (IAQ).
ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1 is the specific Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings
#23489
22. When designing an accessible toilet stall, all of the following apply EXCEPT?
horizontal grab bars are to be mounted between 33"-36" (840 mm - 915 mm) AFF
a minimum clear space of 60" (1525 mm) is required for maneuvering in the stall
an 18" (455 mm) clear space on the pull side of the door and a 12" (305 mm) clear space on the push space must be maintained
there must be at least one grab bar at the toilet
Right Answer: there must be at least one grab bar at the toilet
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, 604.5 Grab Bars
604.5.1 Fixed side-wall grab bars.
Fixed side-wall grab bars shall include a horizontal bar complying with Section 604.5.1.1 and a vertical grab bar complying with Section 604.5.1.2. The vertical grab bar at water closets primarily for children’s use shall comply with Section 609.4.2.604.5.2 Rear-wall grab bars.
The fixed rear-wall grab bar shall
1. Be 36 inches (915 mm) minimum in length,
2. Be located 6 inches maximum (150 mm) from the side wall, and
3. Extend 42 inches (1065 mm) minimum from the side wall.There are two exceptions to be aware of:
1. When the size is affected by a recessed fixture adjacent to the toilet.
2. When an AHJ requires flush controls/valves in positions that conflict with the rear grab bar only.#SC_CSL_2.5 (2)
23. The interior designer is installing a PPE station in the hallway.
See Your Answer
Currently viewing correct answer key
Place the hand sanitizing station with the centerline at the appropriate height range for both forward and side approaches.
Note: Horizontal dashed lines are drawn in increments of 6 inches (150 mm).Incorrect
Source: 2012017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Section 308 Reach Ranges
Refer to 308.2.1 Unobstructed.
Where a forward reach is unobstructed, the high forward reach shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum and the low forward reach shall be 15 inches (380 mm) minimum above the floor.#10095156
24. Which of these are a type of wayfinding?
Change in Floor Direction
Wall Color
Signage
All of the Above
Source: Piotrowski, C. M. (2016). Designing Commercial Interiors., Lodging Facilities, Wayfinding
Wayfinding uses signs, maps, graphics, and directional arrows to help individuals navigate complex properties and building interiors.
Changes in flooring materials can also accomplish wayfinding. The main traffic path can be in one material, with other areas in another. For example, it is common for the main traffic path in the lobby to be finished in carpet or hard-surface material, while the flooring in an adjoining lobby seating area is in a different material.
The area in front of the elevator bank is often a different material from that used in the corridors, and, of course, wayfinding assistance can also be achieved through changes in wall colors.
#24468
25. Research as part of programming includes:
surveys, questionnaires, observation, furniture placement
background reading, mock-ups, surveys, observation, focus groups
observation, interviews, comparison shopping, material selection
interviews, surveys, questionnaires, background reading, observation
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Concept Development and the Design Process, Programming
The correct answer is: interviews, surveys, questionnaires, background reading, and observation, which are all part of pre-design research.
Furniture placement, comparison shopping, material selection, and mockups are influenced by the design choices made after programming and occur later in the design phases. The other incorrect answer choices contain these options.
#24111
26. What are the 4 possible ratings for a LEED certified project from highest to lowest?
gold, platinum, silver, and bronze
platinum, gold, silver, and certified
certified, silver, gold, and platinum
platinum, gold, silver, and bronze
Right Answer: platinum, gold, silver, and certified
Source: USGBC, How does LEED work
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System is an international rating system designed to facilitate the development and implementation of sustainable building practices.
Projects pursuing LEED certification earn points for various green building strategies across several categories. Based on the number of points achieved, a project earns one of four LEED rating levels, ranging from the lowest to the highest: Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum.
For a building to be certified, projects must meet minimum prerequisites and earn enough points to meet or exceed the program’s technical requirements.
Note that buildings are Certified, while professionals earn LEED Credentials.
#RCS4-R
27. Place the required minimum dimensions for accessible dining at the kitchen island.
See Your Answer
Currently viewing correct answer key
Correct
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, 306 Knee and Toe Clearance
To be considered accessible, the island must comply with:
306.2.3 Minimum Required Depth. Where toe clearance is required at an element as part of a clear floor space, the toe clearance shall extend 17 inches (430 mm) minimum under the element.306.2.5 Width. Toe clearance shall be 30 inches (760 mm) wide minimum.
#30695
28. This measuring technique creates a “point cloud” forming a 3D image of the object or space being measured.
convergent photogrammetry
Stereophotogrammetry
laser scanning
electronic distance measurement
Right Answer: laser scanning
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, 6th Edition, Measurement and Drafting, Measuring Tools & Techniques
Laser scanning uses medium-range, pulsing laser beams, which systematically sweep over an object or space to obtain three-dimensional coordinates of points on the surfaces of the object or space being scanned. e resulting image is a “point cloud” forming a 3D image.
Electronic distance measurement uses a laser-based instrument with an onboard computer to measure the distance, horizontal, and vertical angles of the instrument’s laser beam to a reflective prism target.Convergent photogrammetry entails using photographs from different angles to create a three-dimensional model. This process takes a long time but is relatively inexpensive.
Stereophotogrammetry entails superimposing one photograph of a building over another, creating an image that can easily be converted into a 3-D depiction. This process requires special software and equipment.
Rectified photography is a technique for producing scalable images of building façades.
Orthophotography is a technique for aggregating digital photographs into a single, three-dimensional image, using sophisticated computer programs.
#23061
29. A designer uses the principle of harmony in order to
establish an agreement of individual elements to each other and to the entire composition
achieve a variation of the component parts without causing an imbalance in the entire design
provide interest by developing one or two elements as more important than the other parts of a composition
develop a visual consistency and equilibrium to the individual elements
Source: Jones, Lynn M. Beginnings of Interior Environments, 11/e., Design Fundamentals, Harmony
Harmony is the distinctive combination of unity and variety. There should be a unifying theme or common thread that runs through all the individual components, blending them together. Harmony in an arrangement refers to how each part agrees with the others and contributes to the overall composition.
#24286
30. If your goal is to create a relaxed and casual environment, which is not appropriate?
curved lines
horizontal lines
symmetrical balance
occult balance
Source: Kilmer, Rosemary, W. Kilmer. Designing Interiors., The Basic Theories of Design Composition, Principles of Design
Symmetrical balance consists of identical elements arranged equally about a common axis.
This is also called bisymmetrical, bilateral symmetry, or axial symmetry. The common axis may be an actual object, like the peak of a cathedral ceiling, or an imaginary centerline about which the elements are ordered, presenting each half as a mirror image of the other.
In nature, the human body, as well as various plants and animals, exhibits these forms. This type of balance is the one designers most readily perceive and use—perhaps because it naturally appears in our environment. Historically, classical periods in architecture produced many symmetrical buildings with formal, stately interiors.
This type of balance is very stable and gives an impression of formality. While many traditional interior designs are based on this kind of balance and people desire symmetry in their environments, too much formal symmetry can result in dull, static arrangements.
#23035
31. LEED credit is only available when
recycled ceiling tile is used
bicycle storage is provided
areas for recyclables are provided
existing partitions are used
Providing an area for the collection and storage of recyclables is a required condition before any points can be given for LEED credit. While the other options are desirable and each can be used to earn points, they are not required.
Blueprint/Lesson: 4. Establish Best Practices of Design
#10014381
32. The main difference between “inclusive” design and “accessible” design is:
inclusive design addresses the needs of seniors while accessible design deals with human factors
accessible design is for all people regardless of ability where inclusive design is for a specific physical disability
inclusive design is for the broadest range of individuals where accessible design is for a single group of people
accessible design addresses public facilities while inclusive design addresses private residences
Source: Kennon, K. E. Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, 2nd Edition, Finish Selection and Specification, Accessible and Universal Design
Inclusive design is for the broadest range of individuals, whereas accessible design is for a single group.
Accessible design addresses the requirements of a single group within the larger population, specifically, people with disabilities.
Universal design is inclusive of all people with respect to human factors. It differs from accessible design by addressing as widespread a group as possible.
Many of the same features that promote safety and independence for seniors, such as handrails and nonslip flooring, also enhance the function of a space for the general population.
#23066
33. If a designer wanted to emphasize one item in a retail client’s store, which of the following design features would best achieve this goal?
Locating the item on a main circulation axis and spotlighting it.
Putting the item on a brightly colored pedestal in its usual place in the store.
Having an oversized model of the item made for display near the entrance.
Arranging a grouping of several of the items among single pieces of the other items.
Source: Jones, Lynn M. Beginnings of Interior Environments, 11/e, Elements and Principles of Design
Emphasis in a room refers to the focal point and supportive furnishings that create the center of attention. In every well-planned room, it is effective to have one feature repeatedly draw the eye. This emphasis or focal point can bring a feeling of order and unity into a room, with all other groupings subordinated to it.
Although all four options could emphasize the object, the correct option uses location, position, and lighting to focus attention on the item.
When there is a lack of emphasis in a room, the space is uninteresting. Too much emphasis (i.e., more than one or several centers of interest) can produce chaos and unrest. Emphasis is greatly affected by visual stimuli. Our eyes naturally scan a room and seek out the focal point to provide a sense of repose.
#24185
34. All of the following relate to the design principle proportion EXCEPT?
Gestalt psychology
Fibonacci series
Modulor system
Golden section
Right Answer: Gestalt psychology
Source: Jones, M., L. Beginnings of Interior Environments, 11/e, ELEMENTS AND PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN, Principles of Design
Gestalt psychology is a psychological theory that explores how humans perceive and interpret the world around them. It posits that individuals have an innate tendency to see objects and scenes as complete wholes rather than as a collection of individual parts. This holistic approach allows us to make sense of our experiences quickly and efficiently, providing a comprehensive understanding of our environment.
In contrast, the other responses address the concept of proportion, which involves examining the relationships between different parts of an object or composition. Proportion refers to the relationship between one element and another, as well as to the whole, playing a crucial role in the overall perception and aesthetic harmony of an object or composition. Understanding both Gestalt theory and the design principle of proportion can enhance our ability to analyze visual experiences more deeply.
#24157
35. This psychologist proposed a hierarchy of human needs, ranging from basic needs to more advanced needs, such as self-actualization:
Abraham Maslow
Edward T Hall
Mies van der Rohe
Max Wertheimer
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Developing Design Concepts, Psychological and Social Influences, Maslow’s hierarchy of needs
One of the fundamental theories of human motivation was proposed by Abraham Maslow.
His conceptual model was a hierarchy of needs. According to Maslow’s theory, humans have a variety of needs, which he categorizes into two groups, ranging from the most basic needs, such as food and water, to more advanced needs, including self-actualization, order, and beauty.
#10096292
36. Which tools are important aspects of examining an existing building during the programming and analysis phase of a project?
See Correct Answer Key
Currently viewing your answer
Drag and drop the correct answer into the space provided.
Correct
Source: 9425, D.K.B.F.N. N. (2018). Interior Design Reference Manual: Everything You Need to Know to Pass the NCIDQ Exam, eTextbook., Programming, Field Surveys
Precedent studies and employee interviews are used as part of the designer’s research methods. Matrices are just one of the analysis tools use in working with the data collected.
Another important part of programming is to determine and document existing conditions. This is true whether the building already exists or is still in the planning stages. An existing building can be field measured and photographed, and special onsite conditions can be noted.
Site photographs can also be used to document things like existing views, lighting, and the condition of any materials and finishes that may be reused.
Of the other answer choices, post occupancy interviews, furniture schedules, and construction plans do not occur in the programming and analysis phases.
#10015459
37. “Sitting is the new smoking” is a statement that is meant to address the benefits of physical activity and part of what type of design philosophy?
Active Design strategies
BIFMA e3 strategies
SMaRT sustainable strategies
Energy and Environmental Design strategies
Right Answer: Active Design strategies
Source: WELL Standard, WELL Standard, Features/Fitness/Furnishings, 71. Active Furnishings
Most individuals spend the majority of their time indoors in a seated position. Prolonged sitting is associated with many adverse health conditions, including an increased risk of cancer, weight gain, and greater fatigue and back discomfort. Also, sitting burns 50 fewer calories per hour than standing, and sitting for more than three hours per day is associated with a 2-year reduction in life expectancy.
Unfortunately, regular exercise does not appear to negate the health consequences of long periods of sitting. Therefore, creating opportunities that mitigate prolonged sitting while sustaining work productivity is essential to reducing sitting time during the workday.
#22961
38. All of the following are water conservation strategies except?
appropriate plant selection
use high efficiency toilets
use xeriscaping
increase the use of potable water
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Site Analysis, Preliminary Sustainability Decisions During Site Analysis and Programming
Potable water refers to drinking water, one of the resources that LEED aims to conserve. Potable water comes from wells or municipal water systems.
#24159
39. If two people are seated at a rectangular table with one person at each end this indicates what type of relationship/interaction between the two people?
competitive
instructional
cooperative
lateral hierarchy
Right Answer: competitive
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Developing Design Concepts, Psychological and Social Influences, Group Interaction
Seating arrangements are a common method for encouraging group interaction. Research has shown that individuals tend to choose their seats based on the nature of their relationships with those around them.
For intimate conversations, two people typically sit diagonally across from each other at the corner of a table or next to each other on a sofa. In more formal or competitive situations, people usually sit directly across from one another.
Blueprint/Lesson: 5. Research Methods and Contextual Influences
#10079626
40. The client is implementing a new wayfinding program in a renovated facility. Which font style(s) can they use to be code-compliant for permanent, tactile room and egress signage?
Source: 2009 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, 703 Signs
Sans serif typefaces like Arial and Helvetica meet the code requirements for tactile room identification per 2009 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities
703.3.4 Style.
Characters shall be sans serif. Characters shall not be italic, oblique, script, highly decorative, or of other unusual forms.Sans serif fonts are the best choice for larger text, less text, or text read when moving at high speeds, like on the highway.
Serif fonts create an ideal space or kerning between the letters and smaller words. They may also be recommended for larger bodies of text when displayed on a smaller scale.
Even though sans serif is required for code signage, the right mixture of serif and sans serif fonts, similar to what you experience daily, is ideal for creating functional signage and wayfinding systems.
#10037209
41. The sensory aspect of artificial lighting called “brightness contrast” that helps people feel more alert, energetic and positive replicates what conditions?
sunshine on a cloudy day
circadian levels of natural daylight
flooding a space with diffuse light
lighting conditions of a sunny day
Source: Gordon, G. (2015). Interior Lighting for Designers., Psychology of Light
The correct answer is “lighting conditions of a sunny day.”
People feel more alert, energetic, and positive on a sunny day, a day marked by bright highlights and crisp shadows. By providing brightness contrast, the lighting designer can create an environment that replicates a sunny day. In truth, the significant difference between a “dull, dreary” day and a “bright, cheerful” one is the quality of light.
#37066
42. Ideas are sketched, during the schematic design phase, in abstract forms/shapes in plan view that represent the program’s spaces, activities, and circulation patterns.
What are these conceptual sketches referred to as?
matrices
bubble diagrams
parti diagrams
zoning patterns
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Concept Development and the Design Process
A designer often explores several alternative arrangements with bubble diagrams. Bubble diagrams can be used for exploring functional relationships in programming and/or for conceptual space planning. The key is to understand the diagram’s purpose or outcome.
Bubble diagrams are drawn conceptually, without constraints on building geometry, to explore ideal spatial adjacencies. Diagrams drawn within the building’s limitations become block plans.
Generally, a minimum of two to three bubble diagram schemes will provide the designer with a good idea of the most preferred arrangement, after comparing all schemes for strengths and weaknesses.
#23331
43. Which of the following drawing is most synonymous with a parti diagram?
napkin sketch
block diagram
prototype sketch
oblique drawing
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Concept Development and the Design Process
A parti is usually a sketch, diagram, drawing, doodle, or some other graphic that represents the direction, concept, or theme of a design.
It can be very rough; the proverbial back-of-a-napkin sketch.
#10012484
44. Because of the broad age group associated with pediatrics, what consideration is most important in addressing universal design aspects?
waiting rooms should be large open spaces to accommodate all patients
hard surfaces should be used throughout the facility including play areas
exam rooms should be designed to accommodate many patient sizes
color choices should be kept to a minimum to prevent visual distractions
Right Answer: exam rooms should be designed to accommodate many patient sizes
Source: Piotrowski, C. M. Designing Commercial Interiors., Healthcare Facilities, Specialized Medical Practice Suites
Pediatric exam rooms must be designed and furnished to accommodate the various age groups. Some are needed for babies and small children and will require a different type of exam table than is used in an exam room for older children. In the latter case, the exam room will resemble one found in an adult practice.
#24552
45. Based on the adjacency matrix, which box indicates the adjacency relationship between the master bedroom and hobby area 1?
24
18
22
23
To read an adjacency matrix, move your finger along the diagonal “path” from one room area until the intersection with the other area.
#10095183
46. Which of the following is best described as the correctness of fit between objects and spaces and the needs of the people using those objects and spaces?
anthropometrics
human factors
proxemics
ergonomics
Right Answer: human factors
Source: Beginnings of Interior Environments, 11th Edition., The Science of Spatial Behavior
The field of human factors involves the correctness of fit between objects and spaces and the needs of the people using those objects and spaces, as it relates to the human scale — an environment designed to fit a person as opposed to equipment, such as a vehicle.
It encompasses physiological needs that relate to human and bodily requirements, psychological and sociological needs.
Anthropometrics studies the size and proportions of the human body including variations in cultural populations.
Ergonomics is the study of human beings and their responses to various working conditions and environments.
Proxemics is the study of the use of space by human beings in a particular culture.
#23070
47. Most people in the United States typically conduct business and relate to strangers at which distance?
4ft to 12ft (1.2 m to 3.6 m)
12ft to 25ft (3.6 m to 7.6 m)
7ft to 12ft (2.1 m to 3.6 m)
1.5ft to 4ft (457 mm to 1.2 m)
Source: Kilmer, R., Kilmer, W. O. Designing Interiors., Programming Interior Spaces, The four zones of proxemics
Social distance, including both the close and far phase, ranges from about 4 ft to 12 ft, (1.2 m to 3.6 m) and is the spatial zone conducive to informal, social, and business transactions.
Voice levels range from the normal level within the 4-foot (1.2-m) distance to a raised level near the outer limits of 12 feet (3.6 m).
The arrangement and placement of furniture within this social distance can also affect relationships of people in the space.
For example, a visitor’s chair placed across from a desk generally places the visitor approximately 9 feet (2.75 m) from the person behind the desk and creates a more formal atmosphere. In contrast, a chair at the side of the same desk places the visitor about 4 feet (1.2 m) away and appears to be more conducive to an informal meeting.
#10097185
48. A new startup company is having you design their first office space.
See Your Answer
Currently viewing correct answer key
As a new company, they are unsure of the space requirements they will need for planning, but they do have a business plan mapping their expected employee growth. What would be the best method for determining their required square footage?
Drag and drop the correct answer into the space provided.
Incorrect
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, 7th Edition, Information Analysis & Synthesis
Since you have the given variable of expected employee growth, you can assume from a business occupancy type that a given worker needs approximately 150sf each to accomplish their daily tasks, which should include ancillary space as well as circulation. This will give you a quick and decent expectation of how much square footage to plan for.
Using a built-in set of rules or customs would be more appropriate for a space such as a basketball court.
Determining the size of an object or piece of equipment is more appropriate for a space such as a screen-printing shop.
Comparing the client’s existing workflow may not be appropriate if they are looking to change their working model or their growth involves new departments/divisions not currently involved with their space.
Blueprint/Lesson: 7. Spatial Awareness, Square Footage Allocations, 32. Evaluate Project Feasibility and Due Diligence Part 2
#10099173
49. How many exits are required for a convention center ballroom of 7,725 sf with tables and chairs?
For this item, refer to the International Building Code. CIDQ will provide relevant occupancy load tables for you to answer this type of question.
The ballroom should have 3 exit(s). (Type 1, 2, 3, or 4)
Correct
Source: 2021 International Building Code, CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS
The occupant load of a space determines the number of exits required from that space. The occupant load is the number of people a building code assumes will occupy a given building or portion of a building. It is based on the occupancy classification and occupancy load factor (amount of floor occupied by one person) of that classification.
For a ballroom (assembly with tables and chairs), the occupancy load factor is 15 net. Dividing the square footage of the ballroom (7,725 sf) by the occupancy load factor (15 net) will determine the occupancy load of the space (515 occupants).
For an assembly space, any occupant load over 49 requires 2 exits. However, three exits are required for any space when the occupant load is between 501 and 1000 occupants.
Per IBC 2021 1006.2.1.1 Three or more exits or exit access doorways.
Three exits, or exit access doorways shall be provided from any space with an occupant load of 501 to 1,000. Four exits or exit access doorways shall be provided from any space with an occupant load greater than 1000.#24291
50. In regard to behavioral settings, personalization
should not be a factor in final design solution
is one of the 4 basic distance theories of proxemics
is one of the ways territoriality manifests itself
happens only in a work setting
Source: Ballast, D. K., FAIA, 9425, N. N. PDF – Interior Design Reference Manual: Everything You Need to Know to Pass the NCIDQ Exam, eTextbook., Developing Design Concepts, Personalization
One way territoriality manifests is through the personalization of space.
This is a behavior that may happen at home, at the office, or in a coffee shop, where people will often arrange the furniture to reflect their presence. So, for example, when you rearrange the tables and seating at Starbucks to study with your friends, that is a way to personalize your space.
#79064
51. Place the primary and secondary adjacency tokens in the space program matrix.
See Your Answer
Currently viewing correct answer key
Incorrect
Source: Qpractice, Small Commercial Case Study Program
This item is a little trickier than some of the other adjacency matrices because the labels in the matrix don’t exactly match the wording of the program’s adjacency requirements; however, they do match the more specific list of programmed spaces/functions shown in the chart, along with minimum FF&E requirements.
By reviewing the program requirements, you will learn that the administrative assistants are located in workstations in the open office and that the printer is located in the western part of the library.
If you also think about who the administrative assistants serve, they should always have some adjacency to that function.
If you cannot immediately solve an item on the exam, flag the question and come back to it later — viewing other items in the case study will help you.
#23487
52. Which of the following would NOT be a feature appropriate for aging in place?
area rugs
lever handles
lower electrical switches
electrical outlets and telephone jack 18 inches from the floor
Source: Null, R. (2013). Universal Design, 1st Edition., What is Universal Design, How to Design for Aging in Place
Area rugs create tripping hazards and are not an appropriate feature for an aging person living in their own home. Area rugs should be taped to the floor or, better, eliminated. The point at which flooring materials change should be flush.
Criteria for selecting flooring should include slip resistance and some forgiveness for dropped items, or to prevent serious harm in the case of a fall. Pattern or contrast should be gentle and can help guide the eye, or delineate a change in surface or level, as with stairs.
There are three main barriers to aging in place: difficulty getting in and out of the home, difficulty getting around the home, and the lack of an accessible bathroom.
Top universal design features for aging in place:
1. A no-step entry to the home
2. Wider doorways and hallways
3. A bedroom and bathroom on the same floor
4. Walk-in no-threshold showers
5. Reachable, rocker-style light switches
6. Lever-style door handles and faucets
7. Kitchen appliances with automatic shut-off features
8. Nonslip flooring, especially in the kitchen and bathroom
9. Abundant and even lighting
10. Grab bars in bathing areas
11. Comfortable furniture and furnishings
12. Telephones and doorbells with a low-frequency tone#10171449
53. A three-story mixed-use building includes:
Ground floor: 4,000 ft² outpatient medical clinic where all patients can arrive and leave independently.
Second and third floors: Each floor has four apartments (8 total), permanently occupied by residents.
A central stair and an elevator serve all floors.
The clinic and the apartments share a main entrance lobby on the ground floor, with separate interior doors leading to the clinic and to the residential stair/elevator lobby.The ground-floor outpatient clinic is classified as:
Business Group B
Assembly Group A-3
Mercantile Group M
Institutional Group I
Source: 2021 International Building Code (IBC), Chapter 3 Occupancy Classification and Use
Outpatient clinics where patients can walk in and out on their own are Business Group B.
Institutional Group I is used where occupants cannot self-preserve.Blueprint/Lesson: 2-3. Occupancy Types and Loads, 3. Perform Initial Code Analysis, 7. Occupancy Types and Loads, 32. Evaluate Project Feasibility and Due Diligence
#10099300
54. According to Edward T. Hall in his book “The Hidden Dimension”, many people typically conduct business and relate to strangers at which distance?
See Your Answer
Place a target to indicate the correct range.
Correct
Source: Kilmer, R., Kilmer, W. O. Designing Interiors., Programming Interior Spaces, The four zones of proxemics
Social distance, including both the close and far phase, ranges from about 4 ft to 12 ft, (1.2 m to 3.6 m) and is the spatial zone conducive to informal, social, and business transactions.
Voice levels range from the normal level within the 4-foot (1.2-m) distance to a raised level near the outer limits of 12 feet (3.6 m).
The arrangement and placement of furniture within this social distance can also affect relationships of people in the space.
For example, a visitor’s chair placed across from a desk generally places the visitor approximately 9 feet (2.75 m) from the person behind the desk and creates a more formal atmosphere. In contrast, a chair at the side of the same desk places the visitor about 4 feet (1.2 m) away and appears to be more conducive to an informal meeting.
#10012353
55. Which best describes a bubble diagram?
a trial and error freeform diagram without circulation pathways included
a computer-generated block diagram created in the planning phase
a way to address issues including lighting and acoustics in the planning phase
a quick 3-dimensional floor plan developed during the programming phase
Source: Karlen, M., Fleming, R. Space Planning Basics., Planning Methodology, Relationship Diagrams
Sustainability considerations should be part of the bubble diagramming process. Goals to consider include maximizing high-quality, diffused daylight to allow spaces to be lit naturally. Acoustic considerations, such as the segregation of quiet and noisy functions, may also be a significant planning factor.
Although the purpose and results of bubble diagrams are primarily two-dimensional, some basic three-dimensional issues can, and usually are, dealt with later in the process of arriving at a floor plan solution.
While a bubble diagram is a trial-and-error method for quickly exploring all the planning options for a given space-planning problem, leaving space for circulation (corridors, stairs, aisles, etc.) is essential for developing workable bubble diagrams. If these travel paths are not incorporated within the diagrams, the results will be of little value when it is time to translate the diagrams into floor plans.
While bubble diagrams can be drawn on a computer, they are not generated by the computer. They are not blocking diagrams, which conform to spatial constraints and are developed later in the schematic design phase.
#24148
56. In what three ways does the body lose heat?
convection, evaporation and radiation
immersion, ventilation, evaporation
convection, sweating and evaporation
ventilation, evaporation and radiation
Right Answer: convection, evaporation and radiation
Source: Qpractice, NCIDQ Glossary
The body loses heat in three main ways:
convection — The body loses heat this way when the surrounding air temperature is less than the body’s skin temperature, about 85 degrees F (29 degrees C).
evaporation — Heat loss occurs when moisture changes to vapor as a person perspires or breathes.
radiation — The body can lose heat to a cooler atmosphere or to a cooler surface.
In a warm or humid environment, a designer can use air movement and ventilation to increase evaporation and keep occupants cooler through convection.
Similarly, by minimizing drafts, you can keep people comfortable in a cool environment.
#10014347
57. Inclusivity in design is characterized by what main issues?
it allows disabled participants to fully access and use a facility
it provides a diversity of ways to allow maximum participation
it creates a one-size fits all accessible experience for all users
it is meant to provide universal accessibility to all participants
Right Answer: it provides a diversity of ways to allow maximum participation
Source: Mismatch: How Inclusion Shapes Design, (MIT Press, 2018) by Kat Holmes
Inclusive design helps us create products and environments that serve as many people as possible. While accessibility is a core objective, inclusion means much more. It enables people with diverse characteristics to use your product in various environments.
It’s important — especially when you’re designing for millions of people — to create different ways for people to participate in an experience.
The other answer choices focus on one-size-fits-all or accessibility only.
“Inclusive design doesn’t mean you’re designing one thing for all people. You’re designing a diversity of ways to participate so that everyone has a sense of belonging.”
“An important distinction is that accessibility is an attribute, while inclusive design is a method. While practicing inclusive design should make a product more accessible, it’s not a process for meeting all accessibility standards. Ideally, accessibility and inclusive design work together to make experiences that are not only compliant with standards, but truly usable and open to all.”
#24292
58. If you were designing a residence for a wealthy international client who recently moved to the US, which of the following would be a major consideration in the space planning and design solution?
proxemics
the language barrier
ergonomics
security
Source: Kilmer, R., Kilmer, W. O. Designing Interiors., Programming Interior Spaces, PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIOLOGICAL, Proxemics
Proxemics is the study of the cultural and spatial needs of people and their interactions.
The term was created by anthropologist Edward T. Hall to describe the interrelated observations and theories about how people use space as a specialized elaboration of culture. It describes how people use a space based on circumstance and cultural aspects.
Four different distances are identified in the theory of proxemics:
Intimate distance — allows actual physical contact and generally exists from skin surface to a distance of approximately 11⁄2 feet (457 mm)
Personal distance — approximately 11⁄2 feet to 4 feet (457 mm to 1.2 m)
Social distance — 4 feet to 12 feet (1.2 m to 3.6 m)
Public distance — the space that extends beyond the 12-foot (3.65-m) limit of the social zone
The actual dimensions of the four distances vary with the circumstances and with cultural and social differences, but they always exist. The interior designer should be aware of the fact of personal distance needs and design accordingly.
#LCCS6
59. The interior designer has been asked to calculate the occupancy load for Office Suite 4.
The number of occupants is 13 per the occupant load table.
Incorrect
Right Answer: The number of occupants is 14 per the occupant load table.
Source: 2021 International Building Code, CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS, SECTION 1004 OCCUPANT LOAD, TABLE 1004.5
The number of occupants is 14 per the occupant load table, per IBC Table 1004.5.
The designer must know both the space’s square footage and its function to calculate the occupancy load.
Per the program, Office Suite 4 is 1,951 SQ. FT. Thus, the occupant load is 1951/150 or 14 occupants.
Note: Per IBC Table 1004.5 MAXIMUM FLOOR AREA ALLOWANCES PER OCCUPANT, the OCCUPANT LOAD FACTOR is provided in square feet per occupant, so it’s best to calculate this in square feet rather than square meters rather than convert it.
Blueprint/Lesson: Occupancy Types and Loads
#10169985
60. A two-story building contains:
First floor: A 7,000 ft² retail store selling clothing and housewares to the public. The sales floor is open, with stockrooms at the rear and a small employee break room.
Second floor: 2,000 ft² of office space used by store management and accounting staff.
Two internal stairways connect the floors. The primary public entrance and exit are on the first floor at the front of the building; a secondary exit is at the rear.
Recognizing when more than one occupancy type exists in a building is a critical first step before applying construction and egress provisions.
A two-story building that contains a retail store on the first floor and office space on the second floor is an example of a building with B occupancies.
Incorrect
Right Answer: A two-story building that contains a retail store on the first floor and office space on the second floor is an example of a building with multiple occupancies.
The building includes a Group M mercantile occupancy (retail) and a Group B business occupancy (office), so it is classified as having multiple occupancies, which affects separation, egress, and other code requirements.
Blueprint/Lesson: 2-3. Occupancy Types and Loads, 7. Occupancy Types and Loads
#24549
61. A designer would like to purchase furniture and accessories for a number of residential clients.
The designer
must sell all merchandise or workroom services at the same percentage of markup as specified in the contract
should not make retail sales, but bill hourly and contract purchasing out to an agent or dealer
should research whether local zoning allow her to sell retail furniture from her office location
must charge sales tax on the markup
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, 3rd Edition ePDF, Business Legal Filings and Licenses
Most local jurisdictions require every business, including professional services, to have a license. This allows the business to practice and, in most cases, serves as a basis for taxation. The allowable business activities in a particular location are controlled by state and local zoning ordinances based on the land use. Research municipal bylaws to see if running a furniture retail operation (even if sales are infrequent) from your office is permitted.
Interior designers should also research the particular requirements of their local and state licensing and taxing agencies. For an interior designer billing hourly, contracting purchases through agents/dealers, and avoiding retail, they must ensure contracts specify markup/taxation, charge sales tax or PST/GST on the cost + markup (if bundled) or just the goods (if separate), remit it via their sales tax permit, and verify zoning for any potential retail activity, as rules vary.
Your actions (buying tax-exempt, selling marked-up goods to clients) create a taxable event, requiring you to collect and remit sales tax, even if you bill hourly and don’t consider it “retail.”
Finally, many states have laws regulating the practice of interior design. Some states have practice acts that require anyone who wants to practice as an interior designer to meet specific requirements and obtain a state license. Other states have title acts that regulate who may use the title of “interior designer” (or a similar title).
#10095424
62. Who would be responsible for scheduling the asbestos field test for the renovation of a building built in 1972?
contractor
owner
building inspector
interior designer
Whenever tests and inspections are required by the contract documents, bylaws, regulations, or building departments, the General Contractor is responsible for making arrangements with testing agencies acceptable to the owner or with the appropriate public authorities.
Blueprint/Lesson: 2. Evaluate Existing Building Conditions, 41 Facilitate the Construction Process
#23048
63. The use of particleboard as part of a construction detail should be carefully evaluated in terms of the particleboard’s
VOC content
availability
strength
permeability
In existing projects, older materials may contribute to unhealthy interior air quality. Most traditional particleboard contains formaldehyde and may also contain other volatile organic compounds; however, newer products offer lower VOC (volatile organic compounds) options.
Exposure to VOCs can lead to eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. More serious long-term effects can include damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system, and some VOCs are linked to cancer.
The other options are incorrect because particleboard is readily available and strong enough for use in architectural woodwork details and other applications. Permeability, which is the ability to transfer moisture, is not a factor because the particleboard would only be used as a substrate for other finishes.
While you must pay attention to the substrate used for specific design details that may be heavier, you can find particleboard that is strong enough. Thus, the primary concern is VOCs and their impact on indoor air quality. The use of particle board must always be weighed against the potential for off-gassing and the associated VOCs.
Blueprint/Lesson: Environmental Impacts, Air Quality
#23544
64. When selecting the upholstery and window treatment fabrics for a hotel lobby design, which of the following standards would NOT be a consideration for the fabric?
TB 117-2013
Vertical Ignition Test
NFPA 257
Cigarette Ignition Resistance Test of Furniture components
Right Answer: NFPA 257
Source: NFPA, List of NFPA Codes and Standards
All of these tests relate to the flammability of fabrics or upholstered furniture except NFPA 257, the Standard for Fire Test for Window and Glass Block Assemblies.
NFPA 257, the fire and hose stream test, establishes fire protection in terms of time for window openings in fire-resistive walls. It determines the degree of protection from the spread of fire, including flame, heat, and hot gases.
Blueprint/Lesson: 3. Perform Initial Code Analysis
#10099054
65. Analyzing transportation available to your client’s proposed new urban business location would be part of which part of the design process?
See Correct Answer Key
Currently viewing your answer
Drag and drop the correct term into the box provided.
Correct
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Site Analysis
Site analysis is the investigation and evaluation of conditions within which the project will be completed. It is a form of due diligence in which preliminary sustainability requirements and goals for the project are developed.
Although most sustainability issues related to interior design are addressed during the schematic design, design development, and contract documents phases of the project delivery process, many decisions are appropriately made by the client during the programming phase. These sustainability decisions include those that affect site selection, as well as the selection of the building in which the tenant or interior design project will be located.
Here’s some helpful input from our members:
Transportation to a new business is part of the site context, as it can help shape the design and determine the requirements for the size and location of spaces, such as parking. For example, if there are people who bike to work, you might need to assign space for bike storage. If a large percentage of employees use public transportation, you might require less space for parking; however, you would need to assess the walking distance from the public transportation stops. These are considerations that could influence the “site selection, or selection of the building in which the tenant or interior design project will be located.”
#22963
66. If a designer is remodeling a building classified as TYPE V construction, what is the biggest consideration?
none of these, a TYPE V building can be as high and large as needed as it is the most fire resistive
the final proposed square footage and height of the building
the final proposed square footage of the building
the proposed building materials to be used for the new construction
Source: 2021 International Building Code, Chapter 5 General Building Heights and Areas
A Type V building (combustible, such as all wood structure) is limited to only a few thousand square feet in area and one or two stories in height, depending on occupancy.
Section 504 Building Height and Number of Stories
504.1 General.
The height, in feet, and the number of stories of a building shall be determined based on the type of construction, occupancy classification and whether there is an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout the building.See code for table and exceptions.
#28918
67. The design of many beach house interiors have a similar design and aesthetic.
This is a primarily a result of what type of social and cultural influence?
symbolism
regionalism
political conditions
cultural attitudes
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Social & Cultural Influences
The availability of building materials, the climate, and culture are some of the contextual influences behind the differences in buildings across the world.
Regionalism is related to the concept of vernacular architecture, which refers to buildings by local trades. Sometimes referred to as ‘architecture without architects,’ this style of building develops over time to become more efficient and more responsive to its context.
Regionalism in architecture refers to the context and customs of building in a particular region, designed to perform based on specific knowledge of the climate, geology, geography, and topography. Regional architecture follows developments in vernacular architecture, while incorporating modern building materials and technologies.
Regionalism in interior design also reflects the local geographic area, much like the concept of vernacular architecture. A similar design and aesthetic style result from common features, materials, and natural inspiration found in this type of region. The local climate, culture, environment, and materials may influence these.
Whether it’s a large vacation home or a small fishing shack, you can typically find relaxing blues and greens that reflect the tones of the water, as well as nautical inspirations such as rope, anchor designs, or beautiful, aged wood exposed to the elements.
#10091764
68. Why is it important to include the building’s “construction type” in your existing conditions analysis?
To confirm if proposed occupancy changes do not exceed the maximum allowable area.
To confirm if upgrades proposed by the design team will be necessary due to the new occupancy.
Because code officials will need to establish it based on the new project’s size and occupancy.
To allow the designer to implement as many “changes in use” as the project scope requires.
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Building Regulations and Codes: Classification Based on Construction Type
“Interior designers must know the construction type if major changes are being made. For example, if a building or portion of a building is being changed from a Group B (business) to a Group A (assembly) occupancy, the interior designer must know the construction type to verify that the maximum area is not exceeded. If the maximum area is being exceeded, it may be necessary to construct a firewall or add sprinklers.”
#28903
69. An office tenant space design currently meets the maximum occupancy load allowed on the floor due to the egress counts provided by the exit widths and stairs of the existing building.
The client would like to adjust the design to add a training room in the space.
What must be done to ensure the occupant load does not grow to exceed the maximum allowed?
make sure the total area of the training room does not exceed an occupant load of 49.
provide a sprinkler system within the training room and separate the space with a smoke barrier.
keep the area of the training room below 10% of the total area so it can be classified as an accessory occupancy.
keep the area of the training room below 10% of the total area so it can be classified as an incidental use area.
Right Answer: make sure the total area of the training room does not exceed an occupant load of 49.
Source: 2021 International Building Code, Table 1004.5 Maximum Floor Area Allowances Per Occupant
Make sure the total area of the training room does not exceed an occupant load of 49.
The IBC and NFPA codes use 50 people or more as the cutoff for business assembly occupancies. In many cases, the codes allow any assembly-type use with an occupant load of less than 50 to be considered the same occupancy type as the one it serves. So, a training room with a load of less than 50 in a business occupancy is also classified as a business.
If the training room served 50 or more occupants, it would have to be reclassified as an Assembly Occupancy. This would change its load factor from 150 gross to 15 net, thereby increasing the space’s occupant load.
Blueprint/Lesson: 3. Perform Initial Code Analysis, 7. Occupancy Types and Loads, 32. Evaluate Project Feasibility and Due Diligence Part 2
#LC_PPA_1.6_10035160
70. Place a hotspot on the area(s) in the spa where the DCOF of the floor material is of primary concern.
See Correct Answer Key
Currently viewing your answer
Incorrect
Source: Interior Construction and Detailing for Designers and Architects (6th Edition)
Slip resistance is most important in areas where lotions, oils, or water may be present to prevent occupants from slipping, falling, and injuring themselves. Tile, terrazzo, stone, and other smooth surfaces can be potentially dangerous, especially when wet or covered with grease or other slippery materials.
Understanding the DCOF or dynamic coefficient of friction of an intended flooring, and its rating, assures that the material specified by the Interior Designer meets the safety requirements necessary to protect those using the space(s).
Blueprint/Lesson: 3. Perform Initial Code Analysis
#LCCS32
71. The property owner is considering a new tenant for the vacant space shown on the twenty-sixth (26th) floor of the Landmark Office Tower.
See Your Answer
Currently viewing correct answer key
Zoning regulations prohibit factory and industrial, utility, and veterinary use in any part of this building.
The potential tenants are:
Textured UpholsteriesPurveyor of fine custom fabrics, with in-house repair and re-upholstery facilitiesMallory’s Chocolate StoreHandmade delicacies created and packaged on-siteProfessional Dry CleaningOn-site one-hour cleaning for select itemsGaming Electronic StoreSales of video games, gaming consoles, and other gaming accessoriesGet Fit! GymFitness center offering personal and group training and fitness classesAnsley Animal ClinicFull-service medical facility for petsHat and Shoe BoutiqueStylish and comfortable hats and shoes for the whole family
Place a target in the tenant list to identify the tenant(s) that would NOT be allowed.
Incorrect
Source: 2021 International Building Code, CHAPTER 3 OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION AND USE
The tenants NOT allowed are Textured Upholsteries, Mallory’s Chocolate Store, Professional Dry Cleaning, and Ansley Animal Clinic.
The Textured Upholsteries, Mallory’s Chocolate Store, and Professional Dry Cleaning establishments are classified as Group F-1 per SECTION 306 FACTORY GROUP F, 306.2
The Ansley Animal Clinic (SECTION 304 BUSINESS GROUP B) is expressly excluded by the zoning regulations in the item statement.
The Gaming Electronic Store and the Hat and Shoe Boutique are classified as Group M per SECTION 309 MERCANTILE GROUP M.
Get Fit! Gym can be classified as either Group A-3 or Group B, depending on the size of the vacant space. The quantity and placement of gym equipment may also dictate the number of occupants.
Blueprint/Lesson: 1. Perform Site Analysis, 32. Evaluate Project Feasibility and Due Diligence Part 2
#10015680
72. Control of IAQ is dependent upon what?
Controlling moisture and humidity inside the building.
Providing adequate untreated outside air to the HVAC systems.
Limiting pollution sources and on proper ventilation.
Rapid replacement of inside air due to building odors.
Source: Corky, B. (2015). Building Systems for Interior Designers., Indoor Air Quality, Ventilation and Moisture Control
Control of indoor air quality (IAQ) depends on limiting pollution sources and on proper ventilation.
Blueprint/Lesson: Environmental Impacts, Air Quality
#24117
73. Which of the following describes a condition in which the health-related or symptoms of a building’s occupants are identified and can be directly attributed to certain building contaminants. These symptoms do not immediately improve when the occupant leaves the building?
chemical containment illness (CCI)
building related illness (BRI)
sick building related syndrome (SBRS)
fibromyalgia
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Sustainable Design, Indoor Air Quality
Building related illness refers to a condition in which health-related symptoms or symptoms experienced by a building’s occupants are identified and can be directly attributed to specific building contaminants.
In the case of BRI, the symptoms do not immediately improve when the occupant leaves the building.
Human health-related impacts are more complicated to measure as they may occur quickly (e.g., Sick Building Syndrome Symptoms) or may take years to develop (e.g., Building Related Illnesses such as cancer). Hence, the building industry has taken longer to focus on health issues.
Designers and facility managers educated about air quality factors, including temperature, humidity, CO2, fine particulate matter, total volatile organic compounds, noise, and light, can help organizations improve their indoor spaces, despite concerns about issues that could be expensive to rectify. However, the cost of improving air quality through higher ventilation rates is often far lower than believed. A study by Indoor Air found that building managers tend to overestimate energy costs by a factor of two to four times higher than modeling estimates.
Blueprint/Lesson: Environmental Impacts, Air Quality
#28900
74. Calculate the occupant load of the 7th floor for Bardan Office Tower for the spaces listed as approved for highest density where applicable by the Bardan County fire marshall.
Refer to the exhibit for occupant load factors. The spaces are as follows:
Office Suite A Real Estate Office
Office Suite B Real Estate Finance
Office Suite C Loan Processing Call Center
Bardan Tower Gym
Bardan Community Training Room248
249
394
371
Source: 2021 International Building Code, TABLE 1004.5 MAXIMUM FLOOR AREA ALLOWANCES PER OCCUPANT
Per Section 508 Mixed Use and Occupancy, 508.1 General, in the case of mixed occupancies on a single floor, you must calculate each space individually first and then add all the loads together.
Because the authority having jurisdiction has approved the maximum load for the call center to function as a concentrated business use area, the occupant load is allowed a higher density, not less than 50 square feet (4.65 m2) per occupant. See IBC Section 1004.8
Office Suite A Real Estate Office (Business areas): 13,900 SF/150 = 93 occupants
Office Suite B Real Estate Finance (Business areas): 3,500 SF/150 = 24 occupants
Office Suite C Loan Processing Call Center (Concentrated business use areas): 3,400 SF/50 = 68 occupants
Bardan Tower Gym (Exercise rooms): 1,800 SF/50 = 36 occupants
Bardan Community Training Room (Assembly, Unconcentrated (tables and chairs): 2,250 SF/15 = 150 occupantsTotal Occupant Load = 371 occupants
#22874
75. Regarding means of egress, what is the travel distance?
the measurement of the distance between the most remote occupiable point of an area or room to the entrance of the nearest exit that serves it. It is part of the exit access and measured in a straight line along the path of egress travel
a fully enclosed portion of an exit that is only used as a means of egress and provides for a protected path of egress either in a vertical or horizontal direction
the distance traveled to reach a fire rated area of refuge
the distance between two exits within a space
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, 2nd Edition, Means of Egress, Travel Distance
Travel Distance – The overall distance from the most remote point within a room/area/or story to the exit that serves it, measured along the natural and unobstructed path of egress travel.
The building code and the life safety code may specify different maximum travel distances. In most cases, the shortest required distance applies. Also check for exceptions to the allowable travel distances based on sprinkler requirements and occupancy.
#22959
76. In a commercial space, which of the following spaces is exiting or egress not permitted through?
kitchens
storage rooms
closets
all of these
Source: 2021 International Building Code, 1016.2 Egress through intervening spaces.
According to IBC 1016.2, Egress is not permitted through intervening spaces, and per Exception #5, not through kitchens, storage rooms, closets, or spaces used for similar purposes.
Refer to the code for other exceptions you may encounter on the exam, including dwelling unit kitchens and conditions as applied to mercantile stockrooms.
Blueprint/Lesson: 17. Initiate Life Safety and/or Occupancy Plan
#10033963
77. The interior designer must install a display rack for literature that is accessible to all KPNT employees.
See Your Answer
Currently viewing correct answer key
Two existing alcoves are being considered for the display. Place the target on the two alcove options that meet minimum/maximum code requirements for accessibility.
Incorrect
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Section 305 Clear Floor Space
Refer to Figure 305.7 Maneuvering Clearance in an Alcove
#RPSA4
78. Place the marker to designate all fixtures that require plumbing trench extensions.
See Your Answer
Currently viewing correct answer key
Mark each fixture requiring an extension, even when one extension covers more than one fixture.
Incorrect
Source: Residential Case Study, II. PROJECT REQUIREMENTS A.,Plumbing Requirements
Per the program, all fixtures with a floor drain (toilets and showers) must be directly on a trench.
Other plumbing fixtures (sinks, washers, etc.) must be within 10′-0″ [3 m] of a trench and on a wall connected to a trench.
The toilet bowl and lavatory in the guest bath both require an extension. The lavatory requires an extension to supply plumbing to the north wall. Note that when you extend the trench to the lavatory, it also covers the toilet bowl.
The shower in the guest bath requires an extension so that the floor drain sits directly on the trench.
The washer does not require an extension because the plumbing wall is connected to the trench and is within 10 feet of the trench.
The powder bath requires an extension to supply plumbing to both the lavatory and toilet; extending to the toilet bowl also covers the lavatory.
The master shower requires an extension to the floor drain.
The master toilet requires an extension to the toilet bowl.
#24270
79. Which type of scale is graduated in proportions such as 1:10, 1:50 etc…?
architect scale
graphic scale
engineer scale
metric scale
Source: Ballast, David K. PPI NCIDQ Interior Design Reference Manual, Communication Methods
A metric scale is used when a project is planned and represented in SI (metric units).
Metric scales are graduated in proportions such as 1:50, 1:10, and 1:5, and individual markings are based on millimeter lengths. For example, on the 1:50 scale, one scale unit equals 50 units of actual size.
An architect’s scale represents lengths in feet and inches
An engineer’s scale represents lengths in feet and fractions of a foot
A graphic scale is used on printed drawings that are not reproduced to scale and thus cannot be accurately measured with one of the three other options. Alternating bands of black and white represent a specific length to show the relative scale.
#SCCS12
80. Place one hotspot to identify furniture that should be moved to maintain required clearances for accessibility.
See Your Answer
Correct
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Chapter 3 Building Blocks
The placement of the coffee service cart does not allow for someone in a wheelchair to reach items without interfering with seated visitors, nor does it allow proper clearance for turning. See a better arrangement below.
#24581
81. On which drawing do you check for the coordination of light fixtures, sprinklers, and HVAC diffusers?
reflected ceiling plan
mechanical plan
lighting plan
detail sheet
Only the reflected ceiling plan would show all items needed for coordination.
#NAE_CSL_2.5_0004
82. The employee break room is being reconfigured to create an accessible counter on the west wall.
See Your Answer
Place a hotspot to identify where accessibility clearances are violated.
Correct
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Chapter 3, Building Blocks
The arrangement of the table and chairs does not provide sufficient turning clearance or access to the microwave for someone in a wheelchair. The turning circle shown in the image below is included for reference.
#LCBS15
83. Which of the following, multi-person restroom plans provide the BEST layout to prevent unwanted sightlines, protecting the privacy of users?
See Your Answer
Place the hotspot on the plan. Assume that all building and regulatory requirements have been met, including accessibility.
Correct
In layout 1, the mirrors above the sink counters reflect the full view of the restroom, including urinals.
In layout 2 (BEST), the wing wall and the door block that reflection; there is no mirror opposite the door to reflect.
In layout 3, the urinals and toilet stalls are visible from the door; the full-length mirror also reflects the view of the toilets or urinals opposite the sink counter.
In layout 4, the full view of the toilets or urinals is reflected in the mirror above the sink counter.
#10098765
84. Which drawing would an interior designer create to document the lighting system to include the location of all light fixtures specified?
reflected ceiling plan
ceiling section plan
electrical plan
switching plan
A reflected ceiling plan shows the ceiling as if it were a mirror image.
RCPs show partitions that extend to the ceiling and those that extend through the ceiling. They also show ceiling materials, building grid lines, notes calling out ceiling heights, changes in ceiling heights, location of all lights (including exit lights), sprinkler heads, air diffusers and vents, access panels, speakers, and any other item that is part of or touches the plane of the ceiling.
Blueprint/Lesson: RCP
#RCS7
85. Identify the plumbing fixture that is not accessible by placing the marker on the fixture.
See Correct Answer Key
Currently viewing your answer
Correct
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, 604.3. 1 Clearance width.
604.3.1 Clearance Width.
Clearance around a water closet shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum in width, measured perpendicular from the sidewall.604.3.2 Clearance Depth.
Clearance around the water closet shall be 56 inches (1420 mm) minimum in depth, measured perpendicular from the rear wall.Refer also to 604.3.3 Clearance Overlap.#77448
86. Locate the section marker which is needed to indicate the required clearances at the accessible bathroom vanity.
See Correct Answer Key
Currently viewing your answer
Correct
Source: 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, 306 Knee and Toe Clearance
The most important clearances are the clear knee space at the accessible portion of the vanity and accessible toe kick. These can only be indicated at once if the section marker is placed facing the accessible toe kick, or to the right.
A section facing the other direction would not show the 9″H minimum toe kick, but the standard height toe kick.
Many designers miss or have trouble with section cut symbols, but it’s simple to point them towards the view you want to show.
902.4 Height
The tops of dining and work surfaces shall be 28” (710mm) minimum and 34” (865mm) maximum in height above the floor.
Refer to Figure 306.2 Toe Clearance
Refer to Figure 306.3 Knee Clearance#28879
87. In the drawing below, what does the hatched region represent?
Emergency Exit
Exit Discharge
Exit
Means of Egress
Source: Qpractice lesson summary — Life Safety and Means of Egress, Means of Egress
The exit discharge is the portion of the egress system between the termination of an exit and a public way.
#24423
88. What is the minimum clear width of a 10′ long hallway in a walk-in clinic?
48
30
36
44
Source: 2021 International Building Code, TABLE 1020.3 MINIMUM CORRIDOR WIDTH
Because the clinic’s occupant load is not stated, the minimum width would be 44 inches, as you need to use the most stringent requirement(s) for the situation.
See codes and refer to TABLE 1020.3 MINIMUM CORRIDOR WIDTHBlueprint/Lesson: 10. Complete Space Planning, 17. Initiate Life Safety and/or Occupancy Plan
#30654
89. Which of the following would you be most likely to see on a reflected ceiling plan?
A
B
C
D
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, 6th Edition, Measurement and Drafting
The answer is A. This symbol designates a smoke detector which would most likely be found on a ceiling plan. The other symbols would be found on an electrical/ power plan.
#10098767
90. What is the best way to show finish placement for a project with spaces that have 2 finishes, such as paint and wallcovering?
Use a combination of lines, symbols, and elevations on a finish plan
Schedule a meeting to walk through the finishes with the general contractor
Use a finish schedule and label the finishes N, S, E, W on the plan
Attach small finish samples to the plan
The best way to designate multiple finishes is to use a finish plan with lines/symbols indicating the finish for each wall, along with dimensioned elevations for all wall areas receiving more than one finish, clearly showing the start and end points for each finish.
Blueprint/Lesson: 11. Create Initial Drawings
#23384
91. Which of the following would not be a way to minimize acoustic problems in interior planning?
stagger doorways in halls and other areas to avoid a straight line path for noise
use buffer spaces like closets and hallways to separate noise producing spaces whenever possible
place like noise level areas next to each other, i.e. a bedroom next to another bedroom
use room shapes like barrel vaulted hallways and circular spaces that reflect or focus sound
There are many ways the acoustic performance of a group of spaces or an individual room can be affected by the floor plan layout and the size and shape of the room.
To help minimize acoustic problems in interior space planning, avoid room shapes that reflect or focus sound. Barrel-vaulted hallways and circular rooms, for example, produce undesirable focused sound.
Blueprint/Lesson: 10. Complete Space Planning
#23499
92. A designer is developing a space plan for a full floor tenant in a high-rise building.
What two things does the designer need to know when determining the maximum travel distance?
the construction type and whether the building is sprinklered
the occupancy classification and whether the building is sprinklered
the occupancy classification and whether the design involves an exit or exit access
the construction type and height of the building
Source: 2021 International Building Code (IBC), TABLE 1017.2 EXIT ACCESS TRAVEL DISTANCE
The primary consideration for travel distance is whether the building is sprinklered; refer to TABLE 1017.2 EXIT ACCESS TRAVEL DISTANCE.
The occupancy classification determines how many exits are needed.
Sprinklers determine the location of the exits.
#10099409
93. Which drawing would an interior designer create to document the lighting system to include the location of all specified light fixtures?
See Your Answer
Drag and drop the response that correctly completes the following sentence:
Correct
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Construction Drawings: Contents of Construction Drawings, Reflected Ceiling Plans
A reflected ceiling plan shows a view of the ceiling as if it were reflected in a mirror.
RCPs show partitions that extend to the ceiling and those that extend through it. They also show ceiling materials, building grid lines, notes indicating ceiling heights and changes in ceiling heights, the locations of all lights (including exit lights), sprinkler heads, air diffusers and vents, access panels, speakers, and any other item that is part of or touches the plane of the ceiling.
Blueprint/Lesson: 11. Create Initial Drawings
#24311
94. What makes it possible to represent a very large object on a piece of paper of limited size while showing accurate proportion and the true relationships between objects of different sizes?
perspective drawing
BIM
scaling
plotting
Scaling makes it possible to represent a very large object on a piece of paper of limited size while showing accurate proportion and the true relationships between objects of different sizes.
#86258
95. Which plan prepared by the interior designer would show the location of power/data/switching?
reflected ceiling plan
power plan
construction plan
power/communications plan
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, 3rd Edition ePDF for QPractice. Wiley Global Education US.
For a plan of this type and scale, or for larger or more complex projects, such as commercial projects, the interior designer often prepares a separate power/communications plan. This is different from the electrical engineer’s power plan.
For a smaller-scale project, the outlets are often shown on the furniture plan. The location of outlets would not be shown on the RCP, and the construction plan would become too cluttered with the required information.
Communication systems are usually shown on the same plan as the power outlets.
The interior designer is responsible for indicating the locations of items such as telephones, fax machines, communication systems, public address speakers, buzzers, and computers. Locations of telephones, public address systems, computer terminals, intercommunication devices, and security systems are the responsibility of the interior designer in conjunction with consultants.As with power outlets, the actual circuiting, wire sizes, and connections to central equipment are usually determined by the electrical engineer or the contractor responsible for installing the equipment.
The designer draws a power/communications plan that schematically shows where power is needed for special equipment. Symbols for electrical devices are generally keyed to a legend that is on the same sheet as the plan. Electrical engineers or other system specialists typically draft the detailed specifications for these devices.
One example of a power communication plan is shown below.
#24194
96. The typical size of an office’s projects, the filing system used by the office, the capabilities of the reproduction and plotting equipment, and client requirements all determine:
size of the drawing sheet used for an interior design project
whether the drawings are completed by hand, CAD or BIM
the fees charged by the firm
the number of technical staff required by the firm
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, 2nd Edition, Construction Drawings, Specifications, and Contracts, Sheet Size
The size of a drawing sheet used for interior design projects depends on several factors. Typically, an office uses one or two standard sizes for all its projects.
Sheet size depends on the typical size of an office’s projects, the filing system used, the capabilities of the reproduction and plotting equipment, and client requirements. Sheet size is typically determined by the size needed to draw a floor plan on a single sheet without dividing the plan into sections.
#24508
97. In creating drawings for paneling that will be suspended from a wall with cleats, the most important piece of information is the
dimension between the panel top and ceiling
thickness of the wood cleat
width of each panel along the wall
size of the base
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Specialty Drawings
Although all the information listed in the options needs to be included, the most important is the clearance provided near the ceiling to allow the paneling to be installed. Paneling is often hung on wood cleats or Z-clips.
The installation of the panel is not really affected by the thickness of the wood cleat or the size of the base.
Like wood flooring, wood paneling is subject to dimensional changes due to moisture-related swelling or shrinkage. In humid climates, a slight gap may be required to allow the panel to expand. The resulting gap may be left as a reveal, filled, or covered with additional wood trim, such as crown molding or a decorative base.
#24142
98. If a designer is working on a project with a short completion date what might affect their furniture selections for the project?
project location
number of team members assigned to project
lead time
project size
The time it takes to produce custom furniture or secure the desired furniture will impact the selections that can be made and used on a project with a short turnaround time.
Blueprint/Lesson: 13. Identify Significant FF&E, 35 Manage Project Schedule, 36. Manage Project Budget, 37 Facilitate Procurement/ Bid (Tender) Process
#10099272
99. While there are no specific “bariatric” furniture standards, there are standards for “large occupants” that approach bariatric weight ranges (upwards of 600 lbs/272 kilos).
See Your Answer
Place a target to identify such a standard.
Correct
Source: BIFMA, ANSI/BIFMA X5.11 – 2015 Large Occupant Office Chair
BIFMA has been very busy the last few years on the seating front.
They published BIFMA X5.11 for large occupant (254-400 lbs) in 2015 and they have a draft standard on the back burner for healthcare furniture; BIFMA HCF 8.2.
Both standards share some tests from BIFMA X5.1 and BIFMA X5.4 and incorporate new tests as well. There is still no BIFMA bariatric standard. However HCF 8.2 goes up to 600 lbs which is getting pretty close to the bariatric realm.
Bariatric: Relating to or specializing in the treatment of obesity.
ANSI/BIFMA X7.1
This standard defines the acceptance criteria for VOC emissions from furniture used in offices to be classified as low-emitting product and should be used in conjunction with the ANSI/BIFMA M7.1 Standard Test Method for Determining VOC Emissions from Office Furniture Systems, Components and Seating.BIFMA e3
ANSI/BIFMA e3 Furniture Sustainability Standard. The purpose of this voluntary standard is to provide measurable market-based definitions of progressively more sustainable furniture by establishing performance criteria addressing environmental and social impacts throughout the supply chain. It addresses product-based characteristics in the general areas of environmental, health and wellness, and social impacts.NSF/ANSI 336
The purpose of the Standard is to address the environmental, economic and social aspects of commercial furnishings fabric used in public occupancy settings such as office, hospitality, healthcare and institutional interiors. These textiles include but are not limited to woven, non-woven, bonded, knitted, felted and composite materials used for upholstered furniture; walls, draperies, cubicles, furniture systems and other vertical applications; and decorative top-of-bed applications such as bedspreads.#10015818
100. The Greenguard Environmental Institute follows ASTM Standards D5116 and D6670 primarily for what purpose?
to establish the allowable levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in building products.
to establish radon remediation and mitigation standards for trained contractors.
to identify the required emissions levels of products before certification by the organization.
to certify a company using approved methods for removal and disposal of lead paint.
Source: 9425, D.K.B.F.N. N. (2018). Interior Design Reference Manual: Everything You Need to Know to Pass the NCIDQ Exam., Sustainable Design, Indoor Air Quality Standards
Greenguard Environmental Institute: The Greenguard Environmental Institute tests products following ASTM Standards D5116 and D6670, the EPA’s testing protocol for furniture, and the state of Washington’s protocol for interior furnishings and construction materials.
Greenguard has a list of the emission levels that products must meet before they are certified by the organization.
#30531
101. Question: Which of the following wood joinery details illustrates a rabbet joint?
a
b
c
d
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, 6th Edition, Architectural Woodwork
a. Illustrates a rabbet joint
b. Illustrates a dado joint
c. Illustrates a dovetail dado joint
d. Illustrates a shoulder miter joint#10099419
102. Which of the following conformity assessment options are required under the Facts program?
See Your Answer
Place a target to indicate the correct response.
Correct
Source: Association for Contract Textiles, FACTS Sustainability Certification
Facts certification for fabric sustainability requires a third-party assessment.
Facts was developed to recognize contract textiles that conform to the rigors of the multi-attribute standard NSF/ANSI 336 and are third-party certified. A Facts sustainability rating indicates a textile has been evaluated for environmental, economic, and social aspects across its life cycle.
To earn the Facts certification mark, the textile must be assessed and verified by an independent third-party certification body authorized by the Association for Contract Textiles (ACT). Textiles assessed by a first or second party or not verified by an authorized third party cannot bear the Facts certification mark.
Blueprint/Lesson: 12. Identify Finish Materials
#24391
103. What is ASTM E84, and what does it measure?
Steiner tunnel test - flame spread of interior wall and ceiling finishes
Flammable Fabrics Act - mattress flammability
Critical Radiant Flux of Floor-Covering Systems - flame spread of floor coverings
Upholstery Pill test - flammability of upholstery fabric
Source: Qpractice Answer Vault, ASTM E84 Steiner Tunnel Chamber
The Steiner Tunnel Test – also know as ASTM E84, tests the flame spread rating of wall and ceiling finishes.
Blueprint/Lesson: 3. Perform Initial Code Analysis
#10049729
104. What is the difference between first-party and third-party claims of sustainability?
first-party claims use independent testing organizations to verify sustainability claims, while third-party uses the manufacturer’s own research to confirm that materials or products meet defined national or international standards.
first-party claims use the manufacturer’s own research for certification, while third-party uses independent testing organizations to substantiate that materials or products meet defined national or international standards.
first-party claims use an industry-based standard to which the product strives and allow manufacturers to supply their research to testing organizations to verify that products meet defined standards.
first-party claims allow the manufacturer to supply the information to an independent testing organization that verifies that the material or product meets or exceeds the defined national or international standard.
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, 3rd Edition ePDF for QPractice., Green Materials, Product Certification
The correct answer is that first-party claims use the manufacturer’s research for certification. In contrast, third-party claims use independent testing organizations to substantiate that materials or products meet defined national or international standards.
First-party eco-friendly material labels are “self-declared.” A company establishes its standards and states the product’s environmental performance. The manufacturer supplies information for certification.
First-party material eco-friendly labels require no external testing or verification. The designer must carefully evaluate these labels for veracity. Often, they are corporate marketing strategies.
Third-party certification is considered the leadership standard for product certification. Independent third-party certification substantiates that materials or products meet defined national or international (ISO, ANSI, ASTM) standard criteria or other manufacturers’ claims, such as energy consumption, air and water emissions, content, processing, and other attributes that impact the environment.
The specifics of the standards vary by the certification program, and not all certifications are equal. It is vital to look for established, well-respected, and recognized third-party certifications. Third-party certification can be specific to a product or industry, focused on a particular concern, a single attribute, or based on life-cycle factors for multi-attribute certification. Understanding the standards and claims the certification supports, and how they apply to the specific application, is necessary.
#10099941
105. A new wellness business, PracticeWell, is moving into an existing tenant area in a strip mall center.
See Correct Answer Key
Currently viewing your answer
The business offers private one-on-one customer sessions with a wellness coach, group wellness sessions, and an adjoining retail area selling various wellness-related products.
The PracticeWell waiting area features a bar-height counter where customers can sit and enjoy some of the company’s proprietary nutritional offerings. Place a target(s) to indicate seating option(s) that do not meet the requirements for bar height dining.
Furniture Specifications Bar section
Correct
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, 3rd Edition, Millwork, Casework, and Furnishings
Refer to the furniture specifications for the seat heights of the options and to the bar section for the bar height.
From the furniture specifications, CH-13 and CH-15 are the only appropriate choices for 42” [1065] bar height seating. CH-11, CH-12, CH-14, and CH-16 are not appropriate heights for the given bar top.
#24329
106. What type of wood veneer matching is illustrated by the following drawing?
slip matching
sequence matching
book matching
half match
This displays book matching, which is commonly used for the pleasing appearance of the grain.
#28820
107. Which of these carpet fibers would be the BEST option for a specification on a project seeking LEED Certification and specifically concerned with Life-Cycle Cost (LCC)?
Wool
Green Label Plus Cotton
Recycled Polyester
Polypropylene
Right Answer: Wool
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, 6th Edition, Sustainable Design, Criteria for Evaluating Building Materials
The key to answering this question is to consider both life cycle cost and life cycle assessment. Life Cycle Cost examines the direct monetary costs associated with a product or service, rather than its environmental impact.
Life Cycle Assessment is a multi-step procedure for calculating the lifetime environmental impact of a product or service.
Because the project is seeking LEED Certification, both LCC and LCA are considered.
Silk would not be durable or appropriate for commercial carpet.
Green Label Plus is a certification program for low-emitting carpet, but it does not consider lifecycle costs.
Cotton is not a suitable choice for carpet fiber in most applications.
Depending on usage requirements, wool may be more expensive upfront, but it is a renewable resource. It may have a lower total cost over the product’s entire lifetime compared to other products or synthetic fibers that require frequent replacement.
Nylon has a low life cycle cost, but is not a renewable resource.
#208874
108. Your firm is designing the interiors of a memory care facility. What testing standard should be reviewed to confirm compliance with requirements for soft window coverings?
ASTM 648
NFPA 253
ASTM D6413
NFPA 701
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, 3rd Edition ePDF, Finish and Furniture Selection
NFPA 701 (vertical ignition test) measures the flammability of draperies, curtains, and other window treatments. It is divided into two separate pass/fail tests, Test Method 1 and Test Method 2, depending on the fabric’s weight and typical usage.
In both test methods, the sample must be exposed to conditions similar to those it will encounter in use. For example, drapery fabrics should be dry‐cleaned to obtain the most realistic test results. It is critical to provide clients with manufacturer‐recommended cleaning and maintenance information for these and all fabrics, finishes, and furniture specified. The way these items are maintained throughout the product’s life can affect their performance in a fire.
ASTM D6413, a vertical flame chamber test method, measures the vertical flame resistance of textiles in general, but does not describe or evaluate the fire risk or fire hazard of those materials.
ASTM E648 (not ASTM 648) is the same test as NFPA 253, and measures the flame spread of flooring systems, like carpet, in corridors and exits.
UL 723 outlines the test procedure for evaluating surface burning characteristics of interior wall finish materials.
CAL 133 refers to California Technical Bulletin 133, an open-flame test for upholstered seating that requires the use of flame-retardant chemicals. TB133 was repealed in January 2019 because the chemicals had been found to cause adverse health issues.
A new flammability test replaced this test—or CAL 117, known as a “smolder test”—that furniture makers can meet without using flame-retardant chemicals.
#29803
109. Which wall finish would be most appropriate for a high traffic public corridor in an office building?
Drop matched fabric wallcovering
Paint in an eggshell finish
Type III vinyl wallcovering
FRP wall panels
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Building Systems and Construction, Wall finishes
Type III heavy-duty vinyl wallcovering is the most durable and cleanable of the vinyl wallcovering types. It is recommended for high-traffic areas, such as public corridors.
Eggshell finish paint is best for light-traffic areas that do not need frequent scrubbing or washing.
FRP would not be aesthetically appropriate for front-of-house areas. FRP is typically used in back-of-house areas.
Fabric wallcovering is not as durable or cleanable as vinyl wallcovering.
Type I vinyl wallcovering is best for low-traffic areas.
Semi-gloss paint is not as durable or easy to clean as vinyl wallcovering. Semi-gloss paint may also reveal more wall imperfections in a long expanse, such as a corridor, than vinyl wallcovering.
#24345
110. In specifying materials to be used for the custom fabrication of window treatments in an assisted living facility, which of the following is the most important consideration when selecting the fabric?
flammability
durability
offgassing
heat gain and heat loss
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Finish and Furniture Selection
When selecting drapery for commercial, institutional and public residential application, one of the most important considerations is flammability. This takes precedence over other criteria such as durability, fading, resistance and style.
#10015280
111. What organization develops standards related to the commercial furniture industry?
OSHA
ICC
BIFMA
ANSI
Source: Interior Design Reference Manual, Furniture and Furnishings Documents and Procurement, Furniture and Furnishings Standards
The Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association (BIFMA) develops and promotes standards for commercial office furniture.
ANSI accredits organizations that develop standards and oversees U.S. voluntary standards. While Canada has its own standards organization, the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), ANSI standards remain highly relevant in Canada, particularly in industries with cross-border trade. In some cases, products are certified to both ANSI and CSA standards simultaneously.
OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, is a U.S. government agency with a mission to prevent workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities through its standards and enforcement activities. In Canada, each province, territory, and the federal government has its own Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) legislation.
ICC, the International Code Council, is a global source of model building codes and standards. While Canada develops its own model codes, most notably the National Building Code of Canada, the ICC and its standards have been used in a recent collaboration. Accessibility Standards Canada references the ICC A117.1 standard for accessibility, and ICC-ES provides product evaluations for compliance with Canadian codes.
#10049757
112. What can designers reduce to address climate change through product specifications?
Eliminate LCAs
Eliminate GHGs
Eliminate EPAs
Eliminate ESGs
Right Answer: Eliminate GHGs
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, 3rd Edition ePDF for QPractice., Environmental Conditions and the Site
Eliminate GHGs.
GHGs are greenhouse gases. Product specifications can aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support energy conservation, and the use of sustainable energy sources has a direct positive effect on climate change.
Continued emission of greenhouse gases will cause further warming and long-lasting changes in all components of the climate system, increasing the likelihood of severe, pervasive, and irreversible impacts on people and ecosystems.
Limiting climate change requires substantial and sustained reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, which, together with adaptation, can limit climate change risks.
#28861
113. UL Environment is a program that:
Provides independent green claims validation, product certification, training, and advisory services and standards development
Promotes the market place visibility of sustainable products, services, and organizations
Both of these
Neither of these
Source: Underwriters Laboratories, UL Environment
UL Environment is a program of Underwriters Laboratories (UL) that promotes the marketplace visibility of sustainable products, services, and organizations. It provides independent green claims validation, product certification, training, advisory services, and standards development.
Among the product claims UL Environment can validate are: recycled content, rapidly renewable materials, regional materials, VOC emissions, VOC content, energy efficiency, hazardous or toxic substances, reclamation programs, mold resistance, manufacturing energy audits, degradability, and compostability. It maintains a database of products it has certified.
UL is the exclusive provider of GREENGUARD Certification for products that meet stringent chemical emissions requirements and ECOLOGO Certification for products that meet multi-attribute, life-cycle-based sustainability standards.
#10100571
114. There are several tests and standards designed to evaluate the degree of flammability of finish materials.
See Correct Answer Key
Currently viewing your answer
Drag and drop from the list of test names on the left to match the appropriate application on the right.
Correct
Source: Qpractice NCIDQ Exam Guide, Finish and Furniture Selection: Standards and Testing
ASTM E84 (Steiner Tunnel Test) is for interior wall and ceiling textile finishes
NFPA 701 (Vertical Ignition Test) is for vertical treatments such as window coverings and tapestries
ASTM 2859 (Methenamine Pill Test) is for floor coverings such as carpets and rugs
NFPA 265 (Room Corner Test) is for textile wall finishes, not including ceilings
Refer also to the Interior Design Reference Manual, Types of Tests and Standards
Blueprint/Lesson: 12. Identify Finish Materials
#28826
115. The designer is asked to specify a product that is Greenguard Certified for a sustainable project.
Which type of product would they search for?
Power saving appliances
Stain resistant carpeting
Eco-friendly fabric
Low emitting building material
Source: Greenguard, About GREENGUARD
GREENGUARD Certification is part of UL Environment, a business unit of UL (Underwriters Laboratories). GREENGUARD Certification helps manufacturers create –and helps buyers identify–interior products and materials that have low chemical emissions, improving the quality of the air in which the products are used.
Indoor air is 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air, and people spend 90 percent of their time indoors. Indoor air quality is a significant concern when the hours spent sleeping, working in offices, or at school are added up; people, on average, spend the vast majority of their time indoors, where they are repeatedly exposed to indoor air pollutants.
Products are tested for total volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, total aldehydes, respirable particles, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and carbon dioxide emissions. Greenguard certified products include building materials, furnishings, furniture, cleaning and maintenance products, electronic equipment, and personal care products.