About the project or challenge area

Are the houses built today adapted to the future? Are we considering the world increase temperature, frequency of storms and floods – to cite only few- in our design? Should we include sustainability and renewable energies in every new construction in order to reduce the carbon footprint of each house or building? The inadequacy of some constructions have been demonstrated in recent years with the death of elderly population during the hot season: can we remediate that? The project is about designing the future house, based on the existing and perhaps not yet- novel technology which should be introduced. It could be novel building material (made locally), novel energy storage and natural ventilation for human comfort, reactive lighting and exterior paint with varying emissivity, depending on the needs (reflective or deflective).

Why choose this project?

You will have the oportunity to research and learn on the latest technology related to the built environment, from a scientific and a socio-economical aspect . It could also develop your knowledge and interest on novel building techniques and policy decisions.

About you

No specific skills are required for this project but knowledge on building techniques, either novel or traditional will be a bonus. Any engineer, scientist or social/politic student should be able to carry on this project. 

How to apply

All students can apply using the button below, following the Admissions Statement (PDF, 188kB). Please note that this is an advertised project, which means you only have to complete Section A of the Research Statement.

This project is not funded, for further details please use this link.

Before applying, we recommend getting in touch with the project's supervisors. If you are interested in this project and would like to learn more about the research you will be undertaking, please use the contact details on this page.