Resilience in the built environment
By : J. David Chapman/January 30, 2025
Extreme weather events and human-made crises are becoming more frequent, highlighting the need for resilience in the built environment. Real estate must focus on designing and managing spaces that can withstand and recover from disasters, ensuring safety and economic stability.
Natural disasters like earthquakes, wildfires, tornadoes, and extreme weather require proactive measures. Seismic retrofitting and adherence to building codes are critical in earthquake-prone areas, while fire-resistant materials and defensible spaces can mitigate wildfire risks. In tornado zones, impact-resistant windows and reinforced roofs offer essential protection. Adapting to climate extremes involves energy-efficient designs and passive cooling and heating systems, reducing energy costs and maintaining livability. The UCO Real Estate Program recently hosted a symposium called “Innovation in Construction,” focusing on building techniques designed to accomplish these goals.
Human-made risks, such as terrorism, necessitate secure building designs with features like blast-resistant glass and advanced surveillance. Dr. David McIlhatton of Coventry University and I serve as co-directors of the Center for Security and Counterterrorism, housed at the University of Central Oklahoma. The Center is actively engaged with forensic science, criminal justice, and other areas to mitigate events and risks associated with terrorism.
Economic resilience is equally vital. Adaptive reuse of buildings—e.g., converting office spaces to residential units—ensures flexibility and stability in shifting markets while also providing affordable housing options. Downtown OKC developers Tannenbaum and Beffort are leading some of the most progressive efforts in this area by converting office buildings into residential spaces.
Historical lessons also inform resilience strategies. The Great Fire of London (1666) gutted the medieval City of London and extended beyond its walls, while the Great Fire of Chicago (1871) destroyed 3.3 square miles of the city and left over 100,000 residents homeless. These events remind us of the devastation disasters can cause and underscore the need for continuous research and improvement. Similarly, ongoing analysis of the Northern California fires will further refine our practices.
Resilient properties often see lower insurance premiums, while unprotected ones face rising costs. Community recovery depends on robust networks and infrastructure, with real estate developers playing a key role in ensuring quick rebuilding and restoration of services. Resilience, supported by research and investment, is both a necessity and a sound strategy. By adopting resilient designs and planning, real estate stakeholders can protect lives, preserve property values, and foster stronger communities.
J. David Chapman, Ph.D., is professor of finance & real estate at the University of Central Oklahoma (jchapman7@uco.edu).