Field studies in occupied buildings and the building performance evaluation (BPE) approach – Polish and British practice

Field studies in already commissioned and occupied buildings are common both in the UK and Poland. Those generating knowledge applicable beyond the studied buildings are the focus of thematic issue of “Architectus” with two major objectives in mind. Firstly the aim is to showcase current research practice and expertise of various academic disciplines in relation to conducting empirical studies in occupied buildings or urban spaces in Poland. Secondly the issue aims to initiate a discussion on the potential to implement in Poland a building performance evaluation (BPE) approach developed in the UK and based on field studies in buildings over recent decades. This paper provides the necessary background for introducing the subject of BPE into the Polish context. It also offers an overview of similarities and discrepancies in state-of the art research practices in each country. Key recommendations for future research and actions needed to facilitate emergence of BPE focused community of practice are identified.