Durability of building materials, economy, functionality, aesthetics, health, ecology and social-cultural aspect can be considered as key factors in the design of sustainable housing. However, while these factors are being considered with vital importance during the design process in the industrialized countries, it has not always been the case in developing countries. There has been a tendency to over-look or underestimate these basic factors related to design of sustainable housing including the durability aspect of the building materials. The results have been associated with some undesired effects which do not meet the requirements for sustainability and service life of the building. In general, when it relates to housing provision issues in developing countries, it is the delivery aspect that is regarded as important and not, for instance, durability or quality. It is possible to change this mentality and adopt an effective approach whereby all the factors of sustainability are systematically analyzed and applied on design. One can also point out that a decent and a durable shelter in a wholesome environment is essential to human health and to human development. Additionally. it is worth mentioning that a durable and properly designed house contributes to the well-being of a society, from both economical and affordability points of view. Conclusively, there is great need for the developing countries as we enter the 21st century, to identify the problems and challenges to designing sustainable buildings. Priorities such as regulations, standards and codes of practice stressing all those design factors are needed to contribute to a design of sustainable buildings in the developing countries.
