Adapting buildings for climate change: A case study of 78–90 Colmore Row

From wildfires near London airports to landslides in Switzerland, and from unseasonal April heatwaves to increasingly frequent storms, the evidence is mounting. Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it’s a pressing reality. These events all point to a common message that the built environment must evolve to withstand the growing impacts of climate change. 

Understanding climate risk in the built environment 

To respond effectively, we must understand the types of risks climate change presents. These risks fall into three broad categories:  

• Physical risks: Direct impacts on buildings and infrastructure.
• Ecosystem risks: Effects on natural landscapes and biodiversity.
• Societal risks: Arising from policy shifts, governance changes, and socio-economic factors. 

In the context of buildings, physical risks are often the most immediate and actionable. That’s why we conduct a Physical Climate Change Risk Assessment (PCCRA), a structured process that identifies vulnerabilities and informs adaptation strategies. 

According to the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report, climate risk is defined as the potential for adverse consequences from climate-related hazards on people, ecosystems, infrastructure, and services. Risk is shaped by four key components: 

• Hazard: A potentially damaging climate-related event (e.g. extreme heat, flooding).
• Exposure: The presence of people or assets in areas that could be affected.
• Vulnerability: The degree to which those exposed elements are susceptible to harm.
• Response capacity: The ability to anticipate, cope with, and recover from impacts. 

78–90 Colmore Row 

The redevelopment of 78–90 Colmore Row in Birmingham aligns with the city’s declaration of a climate emergency and its Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA). The CRVA identifies the city centre as a medium/high-risk area, due to factors like air pollution, flood risk, surface temperature, and limited green infrastructure. 

Using UK Climate Projections (UKCP18) under the worst-case RCP8.5 emissions scenario, we assessed six key hazards: extreme heat, drought, intense rainfall, flooding, wind, and wildfire. 

• Extreme heat: Projected maximum temperatures could reach 41.2°C by the 2070s.
• Drought: Warmer, drier summers are expected to become more frequent.
• Rainfall: Future summers may be wetter, with more intense downpours.
• Wind: While historical gust trends are stable, future increases are possible.
• Flooding: The site is in Flood Zone 1, but future precipitation patterns may alter flood risks.
• Wildfire: Though urban risk is low, nearby events could still impact the property. 

Each hazard was assessed for likelihood and impact, resulting in an initial risk profile: extreme heat (very high), rainfall and flooding (high), and drought, wildfire, and wind (moderate). Our team implemented a range of strategies to ensure the building is resilient to known climate-related risks. Below is a summary of the key adaptations: 

To reduce these risks, the design team implemented targeted solutions: 

• Extreme heat: BREEAM assessments guided mechanical systems aligned with RCP4.5. Openable windows, high-performance glazing, and a green roof reduced the risk rating from very high to moderate.
• Water scarcity: Rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and groundwater monitoring were integrated.
• Rainfall: Upsized drainage, inverted roof design, and protected rooftop equipment were added.
• Flooding: Waterproofing and reinforced concrete upstands protect vulnerable areas.
• Wind: Rooftop furniture storage and backup systems ensure safety and continuity.
• Wildfire: Non-combustible materials, HVAC filters, and fireproof finishes enhance resilience. 

Results and ongoing monitoring 

These measures reduced the building’s climate risk by 58% at Stage 2, and a further 17% by Stage 4. Ongoing monitoring will continue throughout construction to ensure long-term resilience. 

The retrofit of 78–90 Colmore Row demonstrates how climate resilience can be embedded into refurbishment projects. As many buildings in Birmingham are over 30 years old and built to outdated standards, the CRVA map offers a vital tool for identifying site-specific risks and guiding adaptation. 

By upgrading insulation, improving drainage, enhancing biodiversity, and integrating passive cooling and backup power, other buildings can follow suit – transforming into resilient, low-carbon assets that support Birmingham’s climate goals and safeguard communities for the future.