Helen Vella had the opportunity to attend a thought-provoking panel discussion hosted by Buro Happold and Derwent London on the topic of “Redefining Obsolescence in the Built Environment: Opportunity or Challenge?” This event was part of the CTBUH Conference’s fringe activities and brought together industry leaders to explore innovative strategies for addressing obsolescence.
As an audience member, Helen gained valuable insights into the evolving landscape of urban development and sustainability. The discussion raised critical questions: Should we continue to reuse and retrofit buildings that may not meet BCO standards but resonate with customers due to their heritage and character? Or should we consider demolishing non-compliant structures from the 1980s to 2000s that may struggle to meet EPC ratings by 2030?
Engaging in these discussions is essential for construction professionals to understand the implications for future projects and the broader built environment.
The balance between preserving architectural history and meeting modern sustainability standards is a challenge that the industry must navigate thoughtfully.
