The time for change is now – Build for Life presented by VELUX

[edit] The time for change is now – Build for Life presented by VELUX

[edit] How can we create well-being for people and the planet through building design

[edit] Build for Life unites leaders in architecture, science and research.

As part of the VELUX Sustainability strategy, the VELUX Group are committed to taking measurable steps towards positive change, focusing on how buildings can help to resolve global climate and health challenges through practical action of sustainable solutions.

The Build for Life initiative was launched to help connect people and the planet through better building design and emphasises the ‘how to’, highlighting practical solutions instead of pointing out challenges to be met. Build for Life brings together architects, engineers, planners and academics committed to improving buildings for people and the environment.

[edit] Can we extend building lifespans through design and the use of quality materials?

A quality building is designed for longevity, with a high degree of performance, durability and functionality. Award-winning architect Mette Tony discusses the importance of designing buildings with longevity and sustainable approaches, providing examples of new and refurbishment projects.

The seminar offers design insights on how best to reinstate original features to give old buildings a new lease of life.

Key discussion points:

• Authenticity & refurbishment
• Building for longevity
• Valuing building maintenance

CTA: Watch the video

[edit] Do our buildings support our personal health and well-being?

People spend around 90% of their life indoors (World Health Organisation, 2014), directly affecting their physical and mental well-being.

Academic leaders of healthy indoor climates, Joseph Allen and John Macomber, discuss the importance of air quality and ventilation and how enabling an optimal indoor environment is essential in reducing discomfort and minimising negative impacts.

Watch the seminar through the link below as they break down the nine fundamentals of creating a healthy building and discuss the positive impact the implementation of revered research can have on building design.

Key discussion points:

• Ventilation & air quality
• Thermal comfort
• Dust & pests

CTA: Watch the video

[edit] How to make clean, healthy indoor air the norm?

Ventilation contributes to a healthy indoor climate by removing carbon dioxide and toxins from the building and replacing stale air with fresh air. Buildings that welcome an excellent indoor climate have found that learning abilities in schools can increase by up to 15% (VELUX Commercial, Building Better Schools) and productivity levels in offices.

Renowned professor Lidia Morawska discusses how ventilation in buildings reduces the risk of exposure to infection and the transmission of viruses and the role fresh air can play in improving health and performance.

Key discussion points:

• The complexity of indoor air
• Airborne transmissions
• Indoor air monitoring & ventilation

CTA: Watch the video

[edit] How can we design for adaptive reuse?

Leading architect Philip Bauxbaum opens the conversation on how derelict and neglected industrial buildings can be transformed and repurposed into lively places for occupants to enjoy and connect to the outdoors through adaptive reuse.

Philip discusses what it takes to transform existing building structures by utilising existing materials, reducing waste and using digital simulation tools such as the VELUX Daylight Visualizer to predict daylight levels and make adaptive reuse a success.

Key discussion points:

• Reactivating existing resources
• Reducing waste
• Daylight visualisation

CTA: Watch the video

You can watch all the Build for Life Conference lectures and seminars online now.

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