My Summer at Habitat

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

I am a 4^th year architectural student at Clemson University in Clemson, South Carolina, and I am an intern with Habitat for Humanity. 

Last summer, with internships in architectural firms being scarce, I decided to call Habitat and see if they needed any help in their office.  I came in and met with Ron Spoor, who had a lot of projects for me to work on.  I have researched grants and green building techniques, been a part of the permitting process, and have even worked out at construction sites where I learned so many things about building science that cannot be learned in a classroom.

While in the office, I work on permitting houses and researching places to build new houses.  I also took part in the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certification of the Shady Grove Townhomes, because I am minoring in Environmental Science and Policy.  Habitat is also working on getting a water conservation certification for Shady Grove, called Florida Water Star Gold, that focuses on water usage inside and outside the home.  Low flow faucets, energy star appliances, irrigation, and Florida-friendly landscaping are all a part of Water Star.

Some of my favorite work with Habitat puts my architectural skills to the test.  I have designed many houses (my favorite being one of the January Blitz Build houses), and have also learned how to make blueprints for the electrical, air conditioning, foundation, and plumbing plans.  I have also created several renderings of houses, including of all the houses in the Stevens Creek community.

Working with Habitat for Humanity has given me so many opportunities and provided endless amounts and types of experiences that have made me a better architect, and I am so grateful for the time I have spent here.

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By: Sara Cheikelard