The UK population isn’t only growing, it’s getting older too. It’s expected that by 2039, there will be 74 million people in the UK, with 18 per cent aged 65 and over, and 2.4 per cent aged 85 and over.

For once, I am going to come down hard on one side of this question: FACT. But before we get to the science part, let us zoom far out to the earliest ‘modern’ civilisations. The most cursory of glances at building design in the ancient world, both private and public, will quickly reveal that the use of space, light and ventilation was a key factor.

Our ears developed in natural environments, where we are still the most audibly comfortable.Their main purpose has always been to warn us of approaching danger… and to allow verbal communication.

Air is a vital We can live 30 days without eating, 3 days without drinking but only 3 minutes without breathing.

Light has always been a source of warmth, health and happiness for mankind.

We need light to be able to perform most tasks.

Early settlement began in mild climates.

As man moved North, he had to develop different kinds of shelter to be comfortable through the changing seasons.

On human beings and their national and built environments…Like all mammals, we are relatively fragile beings.

We spend up to 90% of our time indoors or in vehicles, so the buildings we live, work or play in everyday have a significant impact on our comfort, health and wellbeing.