7 Touko 2024

Sustainable Futures with James Rixon: Retrofit Architecture

Retrofit is one of the biggest practical challenges in architecture: how do we make existing buildings work harder, last longer and use less carbon without treating sustainability as a bolt-on?

Stephen Drew speaks with James Rixon of Rixon Architecture about sustainable design, retrofit practice, the RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge and the knowledge-sharing needed to decarbonise the built environment.

The conversation covers:

What retrofit means in practice
Why thoughtful design can improve performance without needless cost
How training and shared knowledge help smaller practices
How clients can make better retrofit decisions
Where AI tools may help and where judgement still matters

Read the episode on Architecture Social: Sustainable Futures with James Rixon

Watch on YouTube: James Rixon on Retrofit Architecture

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to retrofit and sustainability
05:00 Getting on with retrofit before policy catches up
10:00 Thoughtful design without unnecessary cost
15:00 Training, knowledge gaps and upskilling
20:00 Retrofit networks and shared knowledge
25:00 AI experiments and design tools
30:00 Helping homeowners decarbonise confidently
35:00 Audience questions and broader retrofit discussion
40:00 Retrofit opportunities and closing thoughts

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Architecture Social

Find more architecture career advice, practice insight and live roles at Architecture Social.

Explore more conversations on the Architecture Social Podcast, browse free resources at Architecture Social Resources, or join the community at Architecture Social Club.

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Affiliate learning partner

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Architecture Social may earn a commission if you join through our link or use the code.

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