Ep.06: ‘Revolution in Retrofit’: Beyond Bricks for a Greener Future

From historic structures to more contemporary developments, how could our buildings be retrofitted to stand the test of time for future generations? And how will they be used? These ideas, and more, are explored in our latest ‘Sandbox’ episode... 

Whether it is ‘refurbishment’ or ‘repurposing’, there are many terms to describe the concept of ‘retrofit’. With the UK’s net zero targets in mind, there are various ways in which the built environment can reduce its impact on the climate, with one example being retrofitting viable existing buildings, and material re-use (in other words, the circular economy).  

Retrofit is also crucial in preserving heritage buildings which are so vital to the identities of our towns and cities across the UK. With a whole host of other benefits to consider - from reducing possible risk, regenerating areas through considered interventions, to giving a building an entirely new purpose that opens it up to the community - retrofit has so many opportunities for everyone involved in the process.  

Episode 06 of ‘Sandbox’ - ‘Revolution in Retrofit: Beyond Bricks for a Greener Future’ explores these ideas, and many more.  

Joining our regular host Andy Duncan, are Buro Happold experts Ana Araújo, Partner and UK Facades Group Leader, and Darren Conboy, Associate, Structures. Our special guest in this episode is Gillian Darley OBE, a leading architectural historian, writer and broadcaster with a background in conservation, who has written books such as Excellent Essex, and featured on television with shows including Channel 4's Built in Britain and BBC2's The Man Who Fought the Planners.  

Subscribe to the whole series; Sometimes we’ll tackle a subject head on, sometimes a sideways view - but always with curiosity, expertise and maybe even a dash of humour.  

This podcast series is brought to you by Buro Happold (https://buro.im/BuroHappold).