The role of building engineering on integrated design and building sustainability

Building engineering is a multi-disciplinary field that incorporates and applies knowledge from many areas including architecture, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, material science and electrical engineering. Engineering in general and building engineering in particular are holistic, and are based on applied science and analysis, which allow setting, designing and controlling building performance to meet functionality requirements. The paper shows that building engineers are provided with the knowledge and tools to conduct all operations involved in the building life cycle: planning and design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation and disposal of buildings. Recent concerns about environmental responsibility and durability have shown that the design as well as the diagnostics and rehabilitation of buildings require a holistic approach, as have demonstrated a few case studies found in literature. As progress towards sustainable development and the construction of green buildings continues, the need for an integrated design process and the role of the building engineer will become more and more clear.