The implementation of adaptability as a tool for future proof buildings in the Netherlands

Abstract

We have to change. We have to take a second look at our daily patterns. The construction sector is responsible for 36% of the world’s final energy use and 39% of energy and process-related carbon dioxide emission (IEA, 2019). 30% of this emission is due to building construction. Therefore, it is important to start to limit the carbon emission from construction processes. An efficient and sustainable way to limit the emissions is to develop buildings that are adaptable to any function or user, with the least effort and minor transformations to the building. Additionally, according to Manewa et al. (2016) buildings are continuously confronted with internal and external environmental changes to which they must respond. Those changes happen unpredictably and with many uncertainties. Buildings that are not able to react to those changes will be prematurely obsoleted, require extensive transformations, or need to be demolished, neither of which will result in a built environment that is sustainable (Manewa et al., 2016). Therefore, by not being able to adapt to the changing society and future demands, we are not building to last.

Even though several strategies have been developed and research has been conducted on the concept of adaptability, the transition from knowledge to implementation seems out of reach. Those studies mainly focus on the implementation of adaptability on the building level and not on the building as a “life cycle process”. Only a number of books and studies also examine the cooperation of the various parties in developing the proposed strategies. From this problem statement, the following research question is formulated: “What are the criteria for developing an adaptable building, and how can clients influence the implementation of these criteria in development projects?”. To answer this question, a literature review is conducted from which a list of adaptability criteria is developed. Additionally, the criteria are compared to existing Dutch cases through a case study with a cross-case analysis, and the roles and influences of parties involved in the development of adaptable buildings are established through interviews. The findings from the empirical research are used to develop an action plan which is validated by an expert panel. The action plan can be used by clients or other stakeholders as a guideline for developing adaptable buildings in the Netherlands. It can also be used to motivate and inspire other stakeholders or to start the discussion about the concept, and develop a more sustainable built environment.