Description

Book Synopsis

How do we ensure sustainable buildings perform as intended?

The performance gap between predicted and actual energy use in new homes has been identified as a key problem by government and industry experts.

This updated edition is an illustrated practical design guide to delivering better energy performance in all types of new build homes. It introduces readers to the concept of the performance gap and highlights clear issues and solutions to help architects improve their detailing at design stage. The book:

  • Features annotated details with photos taken from live construction sites
  • Includes accessible practical guidance for busy practitioners
  • Highlights how to boost the construction quality and performance of new homes
  • Promotes the case for more architect supervision throughout the construction process.

A new chapter features innovative, low-carbon building methods, including hempcrete blocks, clay blocks and straw bales. All information has been updated to reflect the latest data with fresh details and technologies.



Table of Contents

How to use this book

Glossary

Introduction

Chapter 1: The performance gap and how to reduce it

Chapter 2: How to detail a thermally efficient building envelope

Chapter 3: Masonry – cavity wall construction

Chapter 4: Concrete frame construction

Chapter 5: Timber frame construction

Chapter 6: Insulated concrete formwork

Chapter 7: Off-site construction

Chapter 8: Natural building materials

Chapter 9: Building services performance

Chapter 10: How to deliver improved performance

Appendix 1: Site inspection checklist

Appendix 2: Designed to Perform checklist

Appendix 3: Thermal conductivity assumptions

Designed to Perform: An Illustrated Guide to

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    RRP £32.00 – you save £1.60 (5%)

    Order before 4pm today for delivery by Sat 27 Jun 2026.

    A Paperback / softback by Tom Dollard

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      View other formats and editions of Designed to Perform: An Illustrated Guide to by Tom Dollard

      Publisher: RIBA Publishing
      Publication Date: 01/10/2022
      ISBN13: 9781914124266, 978-1914124266
      ISBN10: 191412426X

      Description

      Book Synopsis

      How do we ensure sustainable buildings perform as intended?

      The performance gap between predicted and actual energy use in new homes has been identified as a key problem by government and industry experts.

      This updated edition is an illustrated practical design guide to delivering better energy performance in all types of new build homes. It introduces readers to the concept of the performance gap and highlights clear issues and solutions to help architects improve their detailing at design stage. The book:

      • Features annotated details with photos taken from live construction sites
      • Includes accessible practical guidance for busy practitioners
      • Highlights how to boost the construction quality and performance of new homes
      • Promotes the case for more architect supervision throughout the construction process.

      A new chapter features innovative, low-carbon building methods, including hempcrete blocks, clay blocks and straw bales. All information has been updated to reflect the latest data with fresh details and technologies.



      Table of Contents

      How to use this book

      Glossary

      Introduction

      Chapter 1: The performance gap and how to reduce it

      Chapter 2: How to detail a thermally efficient building envelope

      Chapter 3: Masonry – cavity wall construction

      Chapter 4: Concrete frame construction

      Chapter 5: Timber frame construction

      Chapter 6: Insulated concrete formwork

      Chapter 7: Off-site construction

      Chapter 8: Natural building materials

      Chapter 9: Building services performance

      Chapter 10: How to deliver improved performance

      Appendix 1: Site inspection checklist

      Appendix 2: Designed to Perform checklist

      Appendix 3: Thermal conductivity assumptions

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