The COVID-19 pandemic has had a well-documented impact on the US economy, the construction industry, and real estate. But what impact has the COVID-19 pandemic had on the momentum of green building projects in the Unite State over the past two years?
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, society has changed to promote science and faster results. Coupled with the fact that many workplaces remain remote at least part of the time, this change creates a unique situation where the life science field requires more buildings, and there are plenty of empty workspaces to spare.
Energy efficiency and clean air were two of the top priorities that drove design. That presented architects with a challenge. They had to figure out a way to bring in fresh air, while keeping the building envelope tight.
Though they may be comprised of seemingly permanent materials such as concrete, masonry, metal, glass, or wood, our buildings slowly deteriorate; or may be adapted to changing needs; they may be gutted, expanded, or sometimes even contracted.
The threat of climate change isn't just impacting the planet's temperature. Warmer conditions also create more severe weather events that are catching cities flatfooted. In addition to putting people at risk, these weather disasters also made it difficult or impossible to access the vital services — including hospitals — that they need in challenging times.
The University of California, Irvine’s new Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Building was designed with three major performance and aesthetic goals in mind: natural lighting, energy efficiency and sustainable design.
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