Main author
Michael BrooksHow Buildings Work - review
Huw M. A. Evans - 'How Buildings Work'
Published by RIBA Publishing (Dec 2016)
This book from Huw Evans serves as an accessible and functional guide for architects and designers, both professional and student. Building physics and practical building design are brought together in a succinct and navigable format that enables easy understanding of concepts that are a constant challenge to those involved in the construction of new buildings.
Evans provides an overview of the main physical phenomena that affect the use and operation of buildings, including:
A clear understand of these phenomena is essential for the design and construction of safe, functional and energy-efficient buildings. The book is careful not to fall into the all-too-easy trap of addressing these phenomena in isolation, but explores how they interrelate. It is precisely this kind of ‘joined-up thinking’ that is required of architects and engineers as buildings become more complicated and conflicting priorities become more likely.
The book provides an abundance of illustrations and diagrams which are very helpful in breaking down the complexities of the subject matter, particularly the end of section ‘bigger picture’ summary diagrams.
This is a concise, no-nonsense handbook that will serve as a useful point of reference for seasoned professionals, and an invaluable guide through the complex terrain of building physics for students.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- An Introduction to Passive House - review.
- Bill Gething and Katie Puckett - Design for Climate Change.
- Biomimicry in Architecture - review.
- Building engineering physics.
- Building Revolutions - review.
- Building science.
- FutuREstorative - review.
- Passive building design.
- Performance gap.
- What's so great about the Eiffel Tower? - review.
Featured articles and news
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. Book review.
Airtightness Topic Guide BSRIA TG 27/2025
Explaining the basics of airtightness, what it is, why it's important, when it's required and how it's carried out.