Social value in architecture and construction

Working closely with Grahams, MSL and Saunders Boston, Bryden Wood used AnTherm software along with finite difference numerical modelling, building thermal modelling and probabilistic weather data, to assess condensation risk.

Bryden Wood continues to push as a practice to look at how we can deliver social value through our projects, learning from each scale and sector type to inform better design outcomes.As a multi-disciplinary company, Bryden Wood has the ability to collaborate across specialities to target each of the strands of social value we have identified, in a holistic approach to design.

Through analysing each project’s individual context and its data, we are able to continually iterate design responses, engaging with stakeholders to evaluate and develop our thinking..This open approach to design takes time, care and, ultimately, collaboration from our clients to help drive it forward.With rising construction costs and an increased focus on decarbonising our built environment, it’s essential that we do not lose focus on improving the social value and impact of what we create..

The pressure on development to design and construct at increasing speed must be balanced against the critical analysis of the design brief and problem statement, and engagement with stakeholders that is so essential to improving the quality of our surroundings.The increasing use of social and environmental metrics in client briefs and a construction industry starting to recognise the importance of this broader social value gives hope, as we strive to improve the quality and meaning of the built environment.. Sources:.

https://www.architecture.com/knowledge-and-resources/resources-landing-page/social-value-toolkit-for-architecture.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/social-value-act-information-and-resources/social-value-act-information-and-resources.The Climate Emergency requires that we pay more attention to the refurbishment and reuse of existing buildings, with a focus on energy and carbon efficiency..

The main benefit of the refurbishment of the urban fabric is a substantial saving in embodied carbon, but a new building can benefit from lower carbon emissions in operation.. Bryden Wood has carried out a detailed WLCA analysis of a light-tough refurbishment, full refurbishment and new construction for a commercial building based on benchmark from LETI and RIBA in order to understand which option is less carbon intensive after 60 years.The results clearly show that.

adaptive reuse is more beneficial in both the short and long term..It is important to re-iterate that the climate emergency is happening right now.