Building physics in towns

Structural-spatial form and urban land use are among the main transformative fields of action of cities. Quality of life and the environment, identity and individuality as well as participation in local society are significantly influenced by urban surfaces. Most urban surfaces have so far been designed for the long-term fulfilment of individual purposes, but offer greater scope for design in terms of functionality and adaptability, quality and efficiency. It therefore makes sense to develop, evaluate, technologically expand and test the potential of urban surfaces in terms of building physics as a whole. In view of growing stress on urban structures due to climate-induced influences, such as flooding, extreme weather conditions or heat islands, new possibilities, processes, systems or materials are needed to improve resilience. The article presents exemplary developments that can be supplemented and combined. Hydroactive surfaces buffer rainwater and release it with a time delay to reduce heat and flooding equally. Green facades improve city climate and air quality. Sound-absorbing facades reduce inner-city noise. Optimized cleaning of traffic and open spaces reduces maintenance costs. The assessment of management processes by means of a life cycle assessment shows the potential for optimizing municipal material flows.