The design of buildings has evolved over time
but the function of buildings has remained remarkably constant: the
provision of shelter, safety and warmth. In recent years, however,
the comfort level expected by occupants of buildings has become
more demanding.
In the quest for higher comfort levels in buildings, most
designers have been using ‘mass produced’ building materials and
integrating energy supply (i.e. electricity and gas) distributed
from a centralised power source. As a result, the environmental
impact from human habitation in buildings has increased
dramatically over the last 50 years.
Regulators now recognise the requirement for more sustainable
building and energy generation. Consequently, Building Regulations
are changing rapidly. In the UK, the proposed changes to Building
Regulations between 2008 and 2016 will require more improvements to
energy efficiency, the use of renewable energy and the use of
sustainable materials than any other period in history.
The objective is to increase comfort levels in buildings whilst
reducing the environmental impact from both constructing and living
in buildings.
Click the chart below to view a PDF of a timeline of building
design
