building

Building refers to the act of constructing enclosed structures or the structures themselves. In architecture and civil engineering, a building is a permanent, habitable system designed to shelter people, activities, and goods. Buildings vary widely in size, function, and design, from single-family homes to high-rise offices and infrastructure facilities.

A typical building project follows stages such as site assessment, program development, schematic and detailed design, permitting and approvals, procurement, construction, and commissioning. Projects involve coordination among clients, architects, engineers, contractors, and regulatory authorities. Risk management, budgeting, and scheduling are essential to meet performance and safety standards.

Common construction materials include concrete, steel, timber, masonry, and composites, often combined with insulation, glazing, and cladding systems. Modern practice increasingly uses modular or prefabricated components to improve quality, speed, and sustainability. Building codes, accessibility laws, fire safety regulations, and local zoning govern layout, structural integrity, and occupancy.

Sustainability and resilience are growing priorities, with emphasis on energy efficiency, water conservation, materials lifecycle, and passive design. Buildings require ongoing maintenance and adaptations to extend lifespan and meet changing needs. The term building also describes the construction industry and the professions involved in planning, delivering, and operating built environments.