HISTORIC-building owners are increasingly aware of the need to improve their building’s sustainability – aims that can be achieved through a sympathetic, yet forward-thinking, approach to planning and architecture.
Two forms of sustainable development are particularly prevalent. Often, projects relate to the change of use of listed buildings and other heritage assets, while improving their energy and carbon performance. The other key area is the comprehensive redevelopment of sustainably located land in the built-up area, justifying the removal of historic buildings to meet the Island’s housing needs.
Altering the use or fabric of listed buildings to provide long-term sustainability can be challenging but is complementary to heritage conservation aims because the re-use of an existing building is arguably the most sustainable approach. Indeed, traditional Jersey buildings are often durable, and their thoughtful and positive adaptation to improve energy and carbon-performance encourages their continued use and provides comfortable modern homes and premises.
To meet modern living expectations, while ensuring the survival of the historic building, an understanding of traditional building construction and performance is vital. For instance, unlike modern buildings, historic buildings need to be able to absorb and release moisture to avoid poor living conditions and damage to the structure’s fabric. This does not mean they should be cold or draughty but does mean they can remain viable and useful in the future.
The first priority for the planner and architect is to understand the occupants’ aspirations so that their requirements for comfort and services canbe accommodated.
Secondly, it is necessary to understand the building’s condition and its important architectural and historic aspects. This leads a design that minimises the need for demolition and generation of waste – an important contributor to carbon emissions. Thoughtful re-use of salvaged granite, brick and even timbers, in particular joinery details, can also reduce waste and retain the character of the building.
Modern extensions and alterations to historic buildings are equally important to future sustainable use and can be designed to meet or exceed the Building Bye-Law standards. These sit alongside energy-management systems, which work with beneficial environmental conditions such as solar gain, to limit energy usage. Finally, the specification of low-energy components and low-carbon technology reduces future energy and water use.
Achieving the current Building Bye-Law regulations, which are designed for new buildings, while still meeting the requirement to maintain the character of the historic building, requires careful consideration. A successful balance between the historic interest and modern Bye-Laws results from careful negotiation and design to achieve an appropriate outcome.
A thorough understanding of client needs, the building, services options and local regulations allows planners and architects to deliver sustainable solutions for development.
