Sustainable Design and Construction in Domestic Extension and Conversion; Viability Issues & Possible Solutions

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Acknowledgement

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Abstract

In this research we try to explore the notion of sustainable construction in a holistic context. The main focus of the research is on sustainable designs and constructions in domestic extensions and conversions and its relation with zero carbon constructions. The research also analyzes many aspects of sustainable architecture and tries to gauge its effect on the practical implications and probable solutions to the current problems pertaining to sustainable construction in the U.K. Finally the research describes various factors which are responsible for the notion of sustainable design and tries to describe the overall effect of the said phenomenon on the majority of small-medium enterprises in the U.K. who still use the traditional practices of construction.

Table of Contents

Contents

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION1

Background of the study1

Rationale2

and building of zero carbon homes.2

principles are universal.3

Aims and Objectives4

The research has following aims and objectives:4

Significance of the Study5

Research Questions6

Reliability7

Validity7

Ethical Concern8

CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW11

The need for sustainable construction11

Barriers to low carbon housing20

Code for sustainable homes (the CSH)22

The difficulty of processing25

The difficulty of processing26

Prototype Home28

Embodied energy reduction37

Skills, education and training is essential38

Access to economic rights38

Transformation40

Community Building41

CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY43

CHAPTER 4: DATA ANALYSIS45

Background information45

The current practice of low-carbon housing47

Drivers zero carbon homes48

Key Legislative Drivers49

Key cultural drivers49

Key business drivers50

key financial drivers51

The Main Legal Obstacle52

Key financial barriers53

Major cultural obstacles54

Design and technical obstacles55

The feasibility of zero carbon housing56

Discussion57

CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION59

Advantages and disadvantages62

REFERENCES64

APPENDICES71

Chapter 1: Introduction

Background of the study

The concept of sustainable development is referred to as a procedure of advancement on a societal level, substantiating a more even-handed and environmentally-friendly form of growth that calls for a deliberate consolidation of environmental, as well as social and economical objectives.

Since the 1990s, the concept of sustainable development has progressively been supported by governments and official bodies, and it has bit by bit came forth as a new international norm characterizing the kind of alteration that is to be looked upon veritable growth. In terms of governance, sustainable development arouses the challenge of how human societies are to deal with pressing environmental and developmental problems and how existent governance system (at the local, regional, national and international levels) can be rectified to guarantee a more suitable pattern of social advancement.

Research by Channel 4's The Home Show indicates that around 20,000 residential loft conversion projects are undertaken each year in the UK; with even more for house extensions.

Nowadays, lofts can be converted and rear ...