The nation’s healthcare systems have a high level of future unpredictability so buildings need the flexibility to change and adapt to new needs and conditions, according to an article on the Health Facilities Management website.
An integrated building system (IBS) can be used creatively to achieve flexibility.
The IBS can be thought of as a set of rules and a kit of parts, with the rules being the most important. Rule 1: Project team members should identify permanent vs. adaptable elements, the article said.
This means identifying elements that cannot be economically changed versus those that can be changed easily.
Permanent elements should be designed for a range of uses. For example, air trunk ducts might be oversized so they will not have to be ripped out if the air supply needs to be increased.
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