With flood events set to increase in both frequency and severity as a result of climate change, it is vital that we understand the ways in which the built environment can be adapted to cope with the challenges it is set to endure. This seminar will explain the key principles of designing for flood resilience in relation to both new build and existing communities.

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The physical, economic and social impacts of flooding can be both severe and wide reaching. It is a topic that often seems insurmountable and yet increasingly pertinent at local, national and international levels. It is the manner in which the built environment is configured that may often result in a community’s vulnerability to flooding and, as such, it is an area that architects and designers can play a huge part in helping to affect change. This seminar will introduce the key principles of designing for flood resilience. It begins by discussing the various types of flooding that can occur and explains the range of tools and techniques available for understanding flood risk contexts. Strategies for adaptation and resilience are discussed at the catchment, community and building scale in relation to both new and existing buildings. Using case studies and worked examples the speaker will explain how these techniques may be effectively applied.

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This comprehensive (2.5 hour) session covers:

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• Flood risk contexts: impacts at the global, national and community scale

• Types of flooding: the causes, impacts and relevant strategies

• Tools and techniques for understanding flood risk and resilience: key principles and resources available

• Flood risk management: traditional and contemporary approaches, both inland and coastal

• Community level strategies: Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), street level strategies

• Building level strategies: resistance and resilience measures for both new build and existing buildings

• Reflections on the pathway to a resilient future: opportunities and barriers to change