View
In terms of the built environment, the term ‘view’ refers to a visual prospect of, or from, a structure or building. A view from a building is generally enabled by installing a window or other form of opening or external platform.
Having a ‘good view’ is typically seen as an desirable quality for buildings and is often one of the factors that affects its price. Equally, a ‘bad view’ can have a negative influence. This is one reason why in high-rise buildings, prices tend to increase the higher up a space is and so the better the view is perceived to be.
The presence (or absence) of a view from a building is often cited as a factor influencing occupant wellbeing.
There is no right to a view in English law, as this would too broadly restrict the ability of other people to develop land. It is possible, however, to enter into a contract or licence with another land owner to agree that a view will not be obstructed, although payments and conditions may be attached. Alternatively, the parties could agree a restrictive covenant, obliging one party not to obstruct the view of the other. For more information, see Right to a view.
There are certain rights to light which may or may not be in alignment with a view.
In some places views can be protected by authorities. For example, in London there are certain views which are protected and cannot be obscured by new developments. For more information, see London View Management Framework.
The term ‘view’ might also relate to looking at or inspecting a property or land, i.e. a ‘viewing’, often with the purpose being to decide on purchasing, renting, or entering another form of contractual agreement.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Adequate view out.
- BREEAM Visual comfort View out.
- Light obstruction notice.
- Linear view.
- London View Management Framework.
- Outlook.
- Right to a view.
- Rights to light.
- Strategic view.
- Townscape view.
- Window.
- Value in the view: conserving historic urban views.
- Strategic view.
- Visual amenity.
- Zone of theoretical visibility.
Featured articles and news
Increased vigilance on VAT Domestic Reverse Charge
HMRC bearing down with increasing force on construction consultant says.
Call for greater recognition of professional standards
Chartered bodies representing more than 1.5 million individuals have written to the UK Government.
Cutting carbon, cost and risk in estate management
Lessons from Cardiff Met’s “Halve the Half” initiative.
Inspiring the next generation to fulfil an electrified future
Technical Manager at ECA on the importance of engagement between industry and education.
Repairing historic stone and slate roofs
The need for a code of practice and technical advice note.
Environmental compliance; a checklist for 2026
Legislative changes, policy shifts, phased rollouts, and compliance updates to be aware of.
UKCW London to tackle sector’s most pressing issues
AI and skills development, ecology and the environment, policy and planning and more.
Managing building safety risks
Across an existing residential portfolio; a client's perspective.
ECA support for Gate Safe’s Safe School Gates Campaign.
Core construction skills explained
Preparing for a career in construction.
Retrofitting for resilience with the Leicester Resilience Hub
Community-serving facilities, enhanced as support and essential services for climate-related disruptions.
Some of the articles relating to water, here to browse. Any missing?
Recognisable Gothic characters, designed to dramatically spout water away from buildings.
A case study and a warning to would-be developers
Creating four dwellings... after half a century of doing this job, why, oh why, is it so difficult?
Reform of the fire engineering profession
Fire Engineers Advisory Panel: Authoritative Statement, reactions and next steps.
Restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster
A complex project of cultural significance from full decant to EMI, opportunities and a potential a way forward.
Apprenticeships and the responsibility we share
Perspectives from the CIOB President as National Apprentice Week comes to a close.