Room for Debate: The Role of Architects and Regulations in Housing Architecture 

Since the 1930s, regulations and standards have dictated how housing should be designed. Recent changes in building regulations ease several requirements, once considered guarantees of dignified housing. What does this mean for architects’ ability to ensure that new homes are beautiful, functional, and sustainable?

Schedule:

6:00–6:40 PM: Boverket’s New Building Regulations – What Happens Next?

Centrum för boendets arkitektur, CBA (The Centre for Housing Architecture), as a stakeholder in the consultation process, participated in discussions on the regulatory changes with Boverket but saw its perspectives overlooked. Kaj Granath, a key contributor, now looks ahead. How can we ensure that the homes being built remain dignified?

Speaker: Kaj Granath, Architect SAR/MSA, Senior Lecturer in Building Design at Chalmers, Scientific Leader at CBA

6:50–7:30 PM: Building Regulations – A Necessary Evil

Reflecting on six decades at the intersection of urban planning and housing design, Per Johanson discusses his relationship with building regulations, sharing examples from his own projects.

Speaker: Per Johanson, Architect SAR/MSA, Founder of Joliark

Through ‘Room for Debate’, ArkDes invites stakeholders to discuss pressing issues, in this case, the Swedish National Board of Housing, Building and Planning’s new building regulations coming into effect on 2 July. In collaboration with Architects Sweden and the Stockholm Architectural Association, ArkDes is hosting a series of discussions centred around a physical example apartment designed by architect Love Di Marco, based on the new building regulations. The week includes additional programs and tours on the theme. Also, see February 11 – ‘Room for Debate: The Good Home?’ and February 14 – ‘Room for Debate: The New Building Regulations – Out of Sync with Reality and Research’ by Architects Sweden. This event is arranged by the Stockholm Architects Association.