For buildings to be adaptable they should be able to accommodate substantial changes.
As most buildings are designed for a considerable lifespan it is inevitable that changes will be required.
This is especially valid in relation to building materials and services which are developing all the time.
A building that is adaptable will be utilised more efficiently and may stay in service longer as it can respond to change at a lower cost.
A longer service life may in turn translate to a better environmental performance over its lifecycle.
Innovative solutions are required to ensure that new buildings are flexible and adaptable to future change.