In years gone by one would have thought about lifetime value of the buildings and projects we all design and deliver, surely this is no better evidenced at peoples love of Victorian, Edwardian and Georgian homes around the UK. The quality of build, orientation, size of windows, size of rooms, natural ventilation, stature… all contributing to their attraction.

The advent of disposable and short-life products has affected all manner of sectors (and of course low prices) across the consumer and construction sector has undoubtedly had effect on people’s adoption of short-termism (if that’s a term!) and search for lowest price rather than best value, let alone paying for something that might last a lifetime. Whilst tradition abounds in the use of bricks in housebuilding, the techniques and adoption of modern methods to the consumers (and probably contractors) benefit seem to be passed by and hardly debated in our industry.

When we raise the subject of Whole-Life value with fellow consultants and clients we often receive a blank expression or comments such as “Why is that relevant”! Well, its relevant if we design a building informed correctly by PHPP (Passivhaus planning package), AECB Building Standards and adopt a “reduce energy use at source” approach, because most of our projects deliver very low or in some cases Net Zero energy use over their lifetime. So, do you want buildings with no (or very low) energy bills?

Choice of approach is obviously down to the individual and if you simply want to achieve building regs approval, carry on. For those who really want to achieve positive impact, reduce energy use and indeed deliver low carbon or Net Zero standards, lets discuss because we can do this now and with limited cost which is returned withing single years due to reduced energy costs and in many cases reduced maintenance. You simply need to figure in whole life and operational costs and the case will be overwhelmingly positive.

Most professionals in the construction sector studied Whole Life Value as part of their training but are often not asked to apply such thoughts once they venture into their first job. We believe this should be a priority subject and must be given a place at all project briefings, be on all agendas and be raised with the client / investor to ensure they understand the benefits. We would be delighted to discuss this subject with anyone at the initial stages of your projects, but it must be imbedded at inception.

If we are to adopt better practice in terms of sustainable standards, achieve the Net zero and Carbon reduction targets (or better) and deliver buildings with wellbeing and resilience at their heart, then let’s get behind understanding, promoting and adopting the advantages of considering Whole Life Costing and Value when we conceive all future projects. Our team at ep architects will be doing so and are really hope to raise and discuss the subject to our collective benefit.

If you are not familiar with WLC or WLV, please take time to read up on the subject or indeed invite us to your next project procurement meeting, so we can table the potential benefits an get it on your agenda.

Please do not be afraid to ask questions and discuss, whether you agree or disagree!

ep architects   

info@eparchitects.design