Building depth Print


​​​Design Checklist​

  1. The building depth ensures effective access to natural light and ventilation


Overview


Building depth refers to the distance from the front to the rear of the building. This dimension affects the levels of natural light and ventilation available to internal spaces.

Buildings of an excessive depth have increased requirements for artificial lighting and ventilation, potentially increasing construction and running costs and negatively impacting the wellbeing of its occupants.


Better Design Practice

Design new buildings to a depth of 10 – 14 metres for optimal circulation and ventilation.​

Regardless of use, a building depth of 10–14 metres is considered optimal for a number of reasons:
  • A shallow building (less than 10 m wide) is often too narrow to integrate internal hallways, elevators and stairs; it also limits options for room layouts and circulation spaces
  • A building that is deeper than 14 metres is difficult to naturally ventilate. Natural ventilation is environmentally preferable and often economically advantageous to artificial ventilation; it is costly to provide air conditioning over the course of a building’s life
  • A building with a depth of greater than 14 metres will require artificial lighting in the centre of the building.

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