Certifying Architecture

This article reviews how the quality of architecture is assessed in the evaluation technology for DGNB certifications. It rests on publicly accessible documents concerning DGNB certification and discusses these against theories for assessment of architecture in criticism. The review shows that the DGNB subdivides buildings into parameters which are assigned points for the alignment with pre-defined features. The addition of points from all parameters determines the indicated level of sustainability. Based on a review and discussion of selected parameters, the article argues that 1) individually considered, some parameters appear arbitrary for either evaluation of quality in architecture or sustainability in buildings and 2) parameters that appear to promote qualitative architecture play a negligible role in the overall evaluation. It concludes that assessment of architecture does not play any significant role in the evaluation technology for DGNB certification for sustainability of buildings. Lastly it reflects upon a present elevation of aspects of certification into building legislation.