Built environment infrastructure design: some lessons from the past

Some valuable lessons for the designer have been drawn from the author’s experiences as a professionally qualified civil and structural engineer. Ten main lessons have been identified from a brief review of vernacular construction; other industries; feedback from asset managers; site experience; strength assessment, repair and strengthening; multi-disciplinary design challenges; feedback from construction and maintenance specialists and the author’s interaction with various client organizations. The challenge faced by construction professionals engaged in infrastructure design is to ensure that these lessons are not forgotten and that appropriate action is taken to improve the service provided to their clients and to Society, in general.