Types of work to existing buildings

[edit] Introduction

There are a number of different types of works that can be carried out on existing buildings. Some of these, the differences between them, and links ot additional information are set out below:

[edit] Alteration

Alteration is work intended to change the function or appearance of a building.

For more information see: Alteration.

[edit] Extension

Extension is the process of adding new space to a building to house additional accommodation.

For more information see: Building extension.

[edit] Fit-out

To fit-out is to provide something (or someone) with the necessary equipment or other items (clothes for people) for a particular situation or context.

For more information see: Fit out of buildings.

[edit] Refurbishment

Refurbishment is the process of improvement by cleaning, decorating and re-equipping. It may also include elements of retrofitting.

For more information see: Refurbishment.

[edit] Remediation

Remediation is the process of rectifying defects.

For more information see: Remediation.

[edit] Renovation

Renovation is the process of returning to a good state of repair - improving or modernising an old, damaged or defective building.

For more information see: Renovation.

[edit] Repurposing

Repurposing, sometimes referred to as adaptive re-use means simply to adapt something for re-use or for a new use.

For more information see: Repurposing.

[edit] Restoration

Restoration is the process of returning a building to its former state. Restoration work is most commonly undertaken on historic buildings; accurately recreating their form, features and character as they appeared at a particular time, while protecting heritage value. Decay or alterations made to a building can be reversed as part of restoration works.

For more information see: Restoration.

[edit] Retrofit

Retrofitting is providing a building with a component or feature not originally fitted. It is often used in relation to the installation of new building systems, such as heating systems, but it might also refer to the fabric of a building.

For more information see: Retrofit.

[edit] Change of use

The Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order categorises uses of land and buildings. Developments may not be used for purposes that are not within the use class for which they received planning permission. Changing the use of a development from one class to another may require planning permission.

For more information see: Change of use.

[edit] Deconstruction

Deconstruction is ‘construction in reverse’. As construction involves assembling and erecting buildings, so deconstruction is the complete opposite: it involves taking buildings apart piece by piece, avoiding damage to the components.

For more information see: Deconstruction.

[edit] Demolition

Demolition refers to the destruction of buildings and other artificial structures.

For more information see: Demolition.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings

• Alterations to existing buildings.
• Do the building regulations apply to works to existing buildings?
• Demolition.
• Material amendment.
• Material change of use.
• Minor material amendment.
• Non material amendment.
• Change of use class.
• Planning permission.
• Permitted development.
• Renovation v refurbishment v retrofit.
• Typologies.

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