Longevity: from methodology to plan proposal

According to architecten van Mourik, an efficient and effective design is the basis for a sustainable building. That is why we conveyed the study 'Lifespan' in which a design method was developed with the aim of optimally attuning the use of materials in a design to the expected lifespan and use. In this way, the realisation of a sustainable building does not cost much more, but it does provide more future value. With this method, current theories are supplemented with a strategic design method that makes design choices open to discussion for client and designer.

A sustainable building is efficient and effective. In other words, determine the expected lifespan of a building and ask what the consequences are in view of the changes that can and may occur in the course of this period. Adapt the design strategy to this and carefully choose the materials, which are either demountable and reusable, or renewable from infinite resources. Do not build for eternity if there is a good chance that the temporary will be of overwhelming influence.

How can flexibility in a building be increased and materials used more efficiently and effectively during the design? Architecten van Mourik has internally investigated the architectural and structural possibilities for this. In this study, the De Raden 3a project is examined as a case study. The goal for architects at Mourik is to test and possibly sharpen the study of sustainability and the associated strategy.