20/10/2026
With and of buildings gaining momentum, this article raised interesting concerns regarding how to resolve comfort levels within existing large scale concrete apartment blocks. Like the Dezeen’s Mackintosh article we shared back in August, it also raises the issue of conservation of buildings design by iconic architects of the past, this time .
With the increasing heat levels over the years finding a solution to cool down a concrete building overnight whether through facilitating cross-ventilation, mechanical cooling unit, ensuring there are sufficient operable windows and maximising uncovered concrete surface areas internally. Residents can also reduce heat gain by shutting glazed openings during the day and opening them during the night for cooler airflow. Residents of Unité d'Habitationose who have recessed windows and/or double aspect flats are at an advantage.
One controversial aspect that ' The Guardian article uncovers is the question of how to preserve this iconic Corbusier building. One option suggested was to convert the residential building into a museum. Where would the current residents (many who have been living there for decades) go? What happens to an established community? Is a building really more valuable than people?
Conservation of buildings for future generations is important. They are great learning tools. However the question rightly raised is: are buildings more important than people? The best pieces of architecture are those that are timeless and adaptable to the needs of the people.
What are your thoughts on this?
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/aug/07/le-corbusier-social-housing-france-dream-summer-extreme-heat-nightmare
