Architects shouldn’t shut the door at handover

David Connacher, Marketing Manager of West Fraser, discusses the importance of post-handover support by architects

Unlike a car, for which we are given lessons and a manual, the learning process with buildings tends to be more intuitive. To continue the car analogy, there is no MOT and little regular servicing, especially with domestic properties, so maintenance is frequently forgotten until something goes wrong. It therefore goes without saying that successful buildings rely on maintenance, effective usage and adaptability. This is why, in the ideal world, architects should not complete the job at the handover; they should play an essential role in helping inhabitants understand and enjoy the building going forward.

To fulfil this aim, architects should advise and support. The post-occupancy phase offers an opportunity to ensure their valuable designs achieve the intended functionality, sustainability and user satisfaction. As buildings become increasingly complex and rely on multiple systems to operate and make them more energy efficient, a lack of knowledge can, at best, lead to occupant discomfort and, at worst, health issues both for the inhabitants and the structure.

For buildings to work as designed, the architect’s advice must reach the building's inhabitants along with its owners and any management company. If those living or working in a building do not have access to information or cannot understand it, even the most sustainably designed building will fail or, at the very least, not meet expectations. Energy and environmental monitoring will help determine whether the building is performing as intended. Through post-occupancy evaluation, architects can form ongoing relationships with occupiers. This may reveal how the behaviour of occupants is impacting a building’s performance and how the management of the building can be improved.

Encouraging inhabitants to take ownership of their buildings by giving them ongoing advice helps preserve the architect’s vision. It has the potential to result in behavioural changes that strengthen long-term sustainability goals and enhance user health and productivity.   

For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit https://uk.westfraser.com/