Key facts
- Modern apartment buildings in London are causing extreme indoor heat.
- The architectural style, sometimes called New London Vernacular, features large windows and limited cross-ventilation.
- Residents are struggling to cope with temperatures potentially reaching 35°C.
- The Mayor of London's office is exploring solutions beyond air conditioning due to energy and environmental concerns.
- Air conditioning is installed in only 7% of UK homes.
Modern apartment buildings in London, particularly those designed with large windows and sheer facades that limit cross-ventilation, are leading to unbearable indoor heat for residents. This architectural trend, sometimes referred to as New London Vernacular, has become a significant issue as temperatures in the city are forecast to reach 35°C.
Residents like Alex Long, a video editor living in Bermondsey, describe their apartments as being constantly blasted by the sun, making living spaces unusable during summer. Architects acknowledge that some designs are inherently prone to overheating, with Tom Dollard of Pollard Thomas Edwards noting that even powerful air conditioning units may not suffice.
The office of London Mayor Sadiq Khan is concerned about the environmental impact of widespread air conditioning use, including increased greenhouse gas emissions and contribution to urban heat islands. Consequently, the city is exploring alternative solutions and is expected to publish a report detailing its plans to address urban heat.
Historically, the New London Vernacular style emerged as a response to previous architectural shortcomings, aiming to maximize natural light while echoing the city's traditional aesthetic. However, building regulations that encouraged larger windows, coupled with a push for denser housing, have inadvertently led to overheating issues without adequate external shading.
Historian Jon Winder's research indicates that Londoners living in these overheated homes find the conditions challenging, with some describing the heat as potentially life-threatening. Incidents like triple-glazed windows shattering due to heat have been reported, and residents feel unable to use their living areas or host guests. For individuals with mobility issues or health conditions, the rising indoor temperatures pose a serious risk.
Access to cooling remains limited across the UK, with air conditioning installed in only 7% of homes. Portable units are present in an additional 8% of households.