ABSTRACT
Housing is distinguished from other forms of building by the following characteristics:
No matter how rudimentary it may be, shelter is needed by everyone (other buildings are ‘optional’ in that needs are driven by commercial practices, technology, culture, etc.).
Its creation is largely in the hands of the occupants or builders rather than architects. Even in countries such as Australia, the percentage of housing designed by architects is very low; it is thought to be less than 5%.
Housing selection for most is based on emotive, very personal decision processes subject to individual tastes and preferences, as well as economic, social and cultural factors.
Even where choice is not available, due to economic or other circumstances, the way in which the house is used is subject to huge variation. Energy consumption for the same house can differ markedly between different occupants.
The main opportunities for reductions in energy consumption in the housing area are in the area of passive solar design, appliance energy efficiency and user attitudes to appliance use and building operation (mainly management of windows and other openings) to control solar energy penetration and ventilation.
All dwelling occupants have the opportunity to contribute towards reducing the greenhouse effect through their use of housing. It offers the chance of change at the ‘grass roots’ level, where individuals can become involved in actively pursuing the goals of energy efficiency. The greatest energy consumers, the developed countries, have the greatest opportunity to significantly reduce the amount of energy they consume.
