For the first time, this book demonstrates that the two paradigms of architectural criticism and performance evaluation can not only co-exist but complement each other in the assessment of built works. As architecture takes more principled stances worldwide, from environmental sustainability to social, cultural, and economic activism, this book examines the roles of perceived and measured quality in architecture. By exploring in tandem both subjective traditional architectural criticism and environmental design and performance evaluation and its objective evaluation criteria, the book argues that both methodologies and outcomes can achieve a comprehensive assessment of quality in architecture. Curated by a global editorial team, the book includes: Contributions from international architects and critics based in the UK, USA, Brazil, France, Qatar, Egypt, New Zealand, China, Japan and Germany Global case studies which illustrate both perspectives addressed by the book and comparative analyses of the findings A six part organization which includes introductions and conclusions from the editors, to help guide the reader and further illuminate the contributions. By presenting a systematic approach to assessing building performance, design professionals will learn how to improve building design and performance with major stakeholders in mind, especially end users/occupants.

Product Description: This book provides a blueprint for action for readers making decisions about how to improve the energy efficiency and performance of new or existing buildings. Suitable for both seasoned veterans and new managers, it takes an objective and orderly approach to what is often a complex, costly, and time-consuming process...read more

Product Description: Major events―notably the Broadgate fire in London, New York’s World Trade Center collapse, and the Windsor Tower fire in Madrid―as well as the enlightening studies at the Cardington fire research project have given international prominence to performance-based structural fire engineering...read more

Product Description: The World’s Greenest Buildings tackles an audacious task. Among the thousands of green buildings out there, which are the best, and how do we know? Authors Jerry Yudelson and Ulf Meyer examined hundreds of the highest-rated large green buildings from around the world and asked their owners to supply one simple thing: actual performance data, to demonstrate their claims to sustainable operations...read more

A number of buildings require informed decisions to be made about their continued safety and serviceability. Although social and economic issues are important influences, the technical issues need to be addressed objectively, efficiently and reliably. This text brings together techniques which can be used effectively to monitor building structures.

Presents an illustrated analysis of contemporary buildings and architecture, making a convincing argument for creating structures that are adaptable and allow redefinition of space and design and construction integration