AnySelected

London is experiencing a heatwave crisis within its modern, glassy new-build homes. Residents are reporting unbearable interior temperatures, consistently reaching 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) for weeks on end. This isn't an isolated incident; it's a growing problem as the UK grapples with increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves.

The issue stems from the design and construction of these contemporary flats. Large expanses of glass, intended to maximise natural light and offer stunning city views, are proving to be a major disadvantage during periods of high heat. The glass acts as a greenhouse, trapping solar radiation and turning apartments into veritable ovens. Ventilation is often inadequate, and many buildings lack effective shading solutions, exacerbating the problem.

“It was 30 degrees inside the flat for two weeks,” recounts Sarah Miller, a resident of a newly built apartment in Canary Wharf. “The windows were practically radiating heat. It was impossible to sleep, and even with fans running constantly, it remained stifling. It felt like living in a sauna.” Her experience is echoed by numerous other residents across London, from Nine Elms to Shoreditch.

Experts are warning that the UK's housing stock is increasingly ill-equipped to handle the changing climate. Building regulations, while aiming for energy efficiency, haven't adequately addressed the risk of overheating in new-builds. “We’re seeing a perfect storm,” explains Dr. Emily Carter, a building performance specialist. “We have modern designs with large glass facades, combined with a climate that's becoming hotter and more unpredictable. Current building standards don't go far enough to protect residents from these extreme temperatures.”

The consequences of this overheating are significant. Beyond the discomfort and sleep deprivation, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can pose serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable individuals such as the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Increased energy consumption due to the constant use of fans and air conditioning also adds to the environmental burden.

So, what can be done?

• Improved Building Regulations: A review of building regulations is urgently needed to mandate better overheating protection in new-builds. This could include stricter requirements for shading, ventilation, and thermal mass.
• Retrofitting Existing Buildings: While more challenging, retrofitting existing buildings with reflective window films and improved ventilation systems can help mitigate the problem.
• Design Innovation: Architects and developers need to prioritise passive cooling strategies, such as incorporating external shutters, balconies, and green roofs.
• Resident Awareness: Educating residents about simple measures they can take to reduce heat gain, such as closing curtains during the hottest part of the day, is also crucial.

The situation in London's new-build flats highlights a critical issue facing urban areas worldwide: the need to adapt our buildings to a changing climate. Failure to address this problem will result in increasingly uncomfortable and potentially dangerous living conditions for millions of people.