Value for money—building economics

The development of buildings in this country uses an increasing part of our capital resources and demands evidence of benefit in financial or social terms. Government imposed limits on expenditure are directed almost entirely at the initial capital cost. A better assessment would be obtained on a basis of total cost. The cost of buildings is often only a small part of the total expense in financing an enterprise. The usefulness of buildings can be much improved by increased standards of artificial lighting. The initial cost of a lighting installation, although small in relation to that of a complete building, should be carefully considered in the overall cost plan.