Post occupancy evaluation in architecture: experiences and perspectives from UK practice

Hay, R., Samuel, F., Watson, K. J. and Bradbury, S. (2018) Post occupancy evaluation in architecture: experiences and perspectives from UK practice. Building Research and Information, 46 (6). pp. 698-710. ISSN 1466-4321 doi: 10.1080/09613218.2017.1314692

Abstract/Summary

The importance of post-occupancy evaluation (POE) is widely acknowledged in the academic literature, industry press and, increasingly, by the professional institutes. Learning from previous projects in a systematic way is central to improving building performance, resulting in a built environment that better-fits the needs of clients, end users, wider society and the environment. The key role of architects in pushing forward this agenda has been recognised, however evidence suggests that take-up of POE is low across the profession. Whilst a great deal of research has investigated barriers to POE across the construction industry, very little has considered the unique perspective of architects. Drawing on in-depth interviews with UK-based architects, this paper explores their experiences in relation to POE and their perspectives on its potential as a standard part of architectural practice. The findings indicate that a considerable amount of practical work is being undertaken, but uncertainty over what constitutes POE means it is often excluded from the POE label with significant implications for a rigorous and joined-up evidence base. The paper also identifies an appetite for more holistic evaluation measures that move beyond current preoccupation with energy efficiency and consider building performance, and thereby sustainability, in a wider value framework.

Item Type	Article
URI	https://reading-clone.eprints-hosting.org/id/eprint/69649
Identification Number/DOI	10.1080/09613218.2017.1314692
Refereed	Yes
Divisions	Science > School of the Built Environment > Architecture Science > School of the Built Environment > Urban Living group
Publisher	Taylor & Francis
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