Internal environment
In its broadest sense, the term ‘environment’ refers to all of the things around us. These things can affect our comfort, wellbeing, performance, behaviour, growth and development. In turn, our behaviour can impact on the environment around us.
The environment comprises the built environment and the natural environment. For more information see: Environment.
In the built environment, the phrase ‘internal environment’ typically refers to the environment that is created inside buildings or other enclosures. This is as opposed to the external environment, which comprises the environment outside buildings and other enclosures.
The internal environment might be formed by its:
- Size, form, layout, texture and so on.
- Acoustic environment.
- Visual environment.
- Thermal environment.
- Air quality.
This environment is created by the architecture of the building, including its fabric and systems, and as with the broader environment, it can affect our comfort, wellbeing, performance, behaviour, growth and development.
The phrase ‘internal environment’ can also be used to refer to the culture within an organisation, that is, the conditions, events, and policies that influence its activities and decision making. This might be affected by personalities, leadership styles, organisational structure, rewards structure, premises and so on.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
We're expanding our collaborative mission by launching DB Intelligence, an exclusive market research advisory panel. Built environment professionals can now get paid to share their expertise on industry trends, products and services.
Panel members receive direct financial incentives for participating in research projects like short surveys, 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups. Register today to shape the future of the construction sector.
Building Control Independent Panel final report
A precis of a key report led by Dame Hackitt with full recommendations and link to the government response.
Guide to ISO 19650 for Architecture Firms (2026)
A user gives their low down.
A UK training and membership provider for mould remediation professionals.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
Independent NSI and BAFE study exploring how organisations are changing the way they buy fire safety services.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.
The UK's campaign to reduce noise pollution: Mythbusting, articles and topic guides.