It is relatively difficult to determine what makes a good building as the concept depends on an individual’s knowledge and understanding regarding buildings. But let us consider this: why do we build houses? Why do we even need a house? Arriving at the right answer will give us better understanding that a building, which is described as ‘good’ meets certain standards that cover a wide range of interests. Houses serve as shelter where we live, eat, sleep, drink and work in. So it affects our well-being and lives generally. While going about our daily activities, we spend more than 80% of our time in buildings that serve varying functions. This means that a good building must be built to conform to safety codes. More so, a building such as a house is a one-off investment which must serve us in the long-term.

A good building must be conceived and taken into perspective from the design stage. It must be well-built, meet the needs of the client and its users, be attractive and must be sustainable.

Factors that Determine a Good Building

• Strength and stability

Climate change, environmental degradation, urban growth and other factors have increased the frequency and severity of natural hazards. Hence, a good building is capable of bearing the expected load in its design and extra loads that come after. The design of its structural components such as beams, slabs, columns, walls and footing should meet safety requirements. It has a good foundation and the ground is able to bear the weight of the house. Its concrete components are reinforced with genuine Thermo-Mechanically-Treated (TMT) iron rods which will makes them strong, stable and not overturn or collapse even when hit by natural disasters.

• Durability and longevity

The load-bearing components of a good building are very strong and stable. This ensures comfort and conveniences of the users. It is protected from thermal agents, moisture, and resistant to high temperature and fire. It is durable and long-lasting to serve present and future needs.

• Appearance

A good building is not only designed to be strong, durable and long-lasting or meet standards, but also to meet the specifications of the design in terms of aesthetics. It must be appealing to emotions. It should be aesthetically-relevant, and enhance existing character.

• Sustainable design

A good building is designed with a proper balance of aesthetics, accessibility, cost-effectiveness, safety and security. It has efficient design and performance, reduces greenhouse gas emission, ensures thermal comfort and has appropriate humidity levels.

• Quality

A good building meets the cultural, social and physical requirements of its users and provides safe dwelling to shelter them from hazards that may impact their environments.

Final Words

Though the concept of good building is a notion with diverse interpretations, and depends on an individual’s perception, desire and specification, any building that is certified as ‘good’ must fulfil the parameters above.