Gosling, J; Naim, M; Sassi, P; Iosif, L and Lark, R (2008) Flexible buildings for an adaptable and sustainable future. In: Dainty, A (ed.) Proceedings of 24th Annual ARCOM Conference, 1-3 September 2008, Cardiff, UK.
Abstract
This paper highlights how a flexible and adaptable approach to construction may contribute to the sustainable construction agenda. It explores the role of the adaptability of buildings in facilitating a realistic response to the challenges of sustainable construction. Techniques for defining the life cycle of an adaptable building are proposed and flexibility in design and construction as a means of facilitating adaptability is examined. A building adaptability system model is proposed as a way to rationalise flexibility and adaptability in the construction sector. In particular, systems dynamics techniques are utilised. A systems model of a facility and its adaptation in response to changes of use and changes in the environment is developed. Further work is required to characterise the life cycle loop and the relationships between different variables. Empirical testing is also required to determine the application of the concepts and models presented in this paper. The models developed herein invite comment on the opportunities and challenges that must still be met to facilitate the exploitation and development of such a concept.
| Item Type: | Conference Paper (Paper) |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | adaptability; building; construction; flexibility; sustainability |
| Index terms: | building adaptability, systems dynamics, testing, construction sector, flexible building, design and construction, adaptability, adaptable building, adaptation, exploitation, life cycle, sustainable construction |
| Subjects: | sustainable construction, management, building design, decision-making and optimization, industry analysis, building performance, value management, user focus, professional practice, contractual arrangements |
| Topics: | Procurement, Sustainability, Project Management, Research Practice, Engineering Principles, Business Strategy, Design Practice |
| Descriptive scope: | 3 PCT |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here