Wst06 - Functional adaptability – Above Green

Non-residential (1 credit available)

Aim

To recognise and encourage measures taken to accommodate future changes of use of the building over its lifespan.

Assessment criteria

The following is required to demonstrate compliance:

One credit - Functional adaptability

A building-specific functional adaptation strategy study has been undertaken by the client and design team by completion of the concept design which includes recommendations for measures to be incorporated to facilitate future adaptation.

Functional adaptation measures (see examples in Table 49) have been implemented in the design by completion of the technical design in accordance with the functional adaptation strategy recommendations, where practical and cost effective. Omissions have been justified in writing to the assessor.

Checklists and tables

None.

Compliance notes

Ref	Terms	Description
Shell and core (non-residential and residential institutions only)
CN1	Applicable assessment criteria	Both options: All criteria relevant to the building type and function apply. Refer to Appendix D – Shell and core project assessments for a more detailed description of the shell and core assessment options.
Residential -Partially fitted and fully fitted
CN2	Applicable assessment criteria - Single and multiple dwellings	Both options: This issue is not applicable. Refer to Appendix E – Applicability of BREEAM New Construction to single and multiple dwellings, partially and fully fitted for a more detailed description of residential assessment options.
General
CN3	Functional adaptation strategy study	The functional adaptation strategy study should consider: The potential for major refurbishment, including replacing the façade Design aspects that facilitate the replacement of all major plant within the life of the building, e.g. panels in floors or walls that can be removed without affecting the structure, providing lifting beams and hoists The degree of adaptability of the internal environment to accommodate changes in working practices The degree of adaptability of the internal physical space and external shell to accommodate change in-use The extent of accessibility to local services, such as local power, data infrastructure etc. For additional guidance, see Table 49
CN3.1	Functional adaptation implementation	The implementation will be specific to the building and scope of the project, but information should be made available to the assessor covering: The feasibility for multiple or alternative building uses and area functions, for example, related to the structural design of the building Options for multiple building uses and area functions based on design details, e.g. modularity Routes and methods for major plant replacement, e.g. networks and connections have flexibility and capacity for expansion Accessibility for local plant and service distribution routes, e.g. detailed information on building conduits and connections infrastructure The potential for the building to be extended either horizontally, vertically or both.

Methodology

None.

Evidence

Ref	Interim design stage	Final post-construction stage
All	Functional adaptation strategy and implementation plan report.	As per interim design stage.

Additional information

Relevant definitions

Building functional adaptation: Work to an existing building that responds to a required change of use or requirements and goes beyond maintenance and repairs. These changes solve functional problems and could provide significant improvements. The functional adaptation works could include alterations, conversions or extensions.
Functional adaptability: The ability of a building to be adapted for a change in operational requirements within the same building type, or for use as a different building type.

Other information

Table 49 provides examples of functional design measures that may be adopted for each assessment part when considering accessibility, spatial adaptability and expandability.

Table 49 Design measures allowing future adaptation

Accessibility

Spatial adaptability

Expandability

Fabric and structure:

External walls
Cladding
Ground and first floor
Roof.

Use of products or systems which allow easy replacements.

Location of structural components within the floor space.

Provision to add extensions or alterations to increase building capacity.

Core and local services:

Mechanical and electrical
Plumbing
Stairs and lifts
Fire.

Inclusion of facilities management requirements and construction design management feedback for future operational needs.

Provision of capacity in infrastructure to enable future expansion and adaptation.

Interior design:

Finishes
Floors
Interior walls
Connections.

Use of products or systems which allow easy replacements.

Layout in standardised grids.

Use of inherent finishes to allow replacement.

Use of standardised material sizes.

Identifying or recognising potential future functional requirements.

Efficient use of space to allow for any increase in occupancy.