RIBA West Conference

Keynote speaker Andy Love, Director of Love Design Studio and Shade the UK, delivered a talk on the 16th of March 2023 at the Bristol Old Vic. The presentation shed light on the growing concern of overheating in the built environment and emphasised the need for proactive measures to address this critical issue; especially for vulnerable people.

But first, let's understand what overheating in the built environment actually means. Overheating refers to the excessive accumulation of heat within enclosed spaces, such as homes, offices, or public buildings, resulting from various factors such as solar radiation, internal heat sources, and insufficient ventilation. As temperatures rise, especially during summer months or in urban areas with high heat absorption, the risk of overheating becomes more prevalent.

The significance of overheating in the built environment cannot be overstated. Rising global temperatures due to climate change have intensified the occurrence and severity of heatwaves, making overheating a pressing concern. It poses significant risks to human health, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Heat-related illnesses, heat exhaustion, and even fatalities can occur when individuals are exposed to prolonged periods of high temperatures without adequate mitigation strategies.

Overheating in buildings also affects productivity and comfort. High indoor temperatures can impair cognitive abilities, decrease concentration levels, and lead to increased fatigue among occupants. This, in turn, hampers overall productivity and well-being, making it essential to address the issue comprehensively.

During the discussions, Andy outlined several measures that can be taken to protect ourselves against overheating in the built environment. These include:

Passive Design Measures

• Incorporating passive design principles during the construction phase can significantly reduce the risk of overheating. Techniques such as proper insulation, shading devices, natural ventilation, and cool roof materials can help regulate internal temperatures and minimise heat gain.

  Urban Planning

• Implementing sustainable urban planning strategies is crucial to combat overheating. Incorporating green spaces, urban forests, and optimising the distribution of buildings to reduce the urban heat island effect can contribute to a more pleasant and cooler urban environment.

  Technology and Innovation

• Harnessing technological advancements, such as the use of smart materials, energy-efficient cooling systems, and smart building management systems, can aid in mitigating overheating. These innovations can optimise energy consumption and enhance indoor comfort while reducing the overall environmental impact.

  Public Awareness

• Educating the public about the risks of overheating and the importance of taking preventive measures is paramount. Andy Love emphasised the need for awareness campaigns and community engagement to foster a collective responsibility towards creating cooler and more sustainable built environments.

Andy looked to highlight the need for relaxed planning regulations to facilitate the effective implementation of sustainable measures in the built environment; emphasising that overly rigid planning constraints often hinder innovative solutions to combat overheating. Andy noted how cumbersome regulations can limit the incorporation of energy-efficient technologies and sustainable design principles. He stressed the importance of finding a balance between preserving heritage and allowing necessary retrofitting. Andy acknowledged that retrofitting historic buildings can be challenging due to the need to preserve their architectural integrity. However, he urged for creative approaches that blend modern technologies with heritage preservation, emphasising the significance of adapting and retrofitting these structures to meet contemporary sustainability standards. By encouraging a more flexible planning approach, Andy advocated for the integration of sustainable measures without compromising the unique character and value of historic buildings.

By adopting a holistic approach that encompasses design, planning, technology, and awareness, we can protect ourselves against the detrimental effects of overheating in the built environment. It is crucial for architects, policymakers, urban planners, and individuals to collaborate and implement these strategies to create resilient, energy-efficient, and livable spaces for the present and future generations.

The keynote speech at the Bristol Old Vic was a call to action, urging stakeholders to recognise the urgency of addressing overheating and take proactive steps to ensure a cooler, healthier, and more sustainable built environment.