Building Type E: Reducing Construction Costs
Innovative Solutions and Fewer Regulations for More Affordable Building
In Germany, construction has been anything but easy due to endless of DIN standards and building regulations that complicate the process, making it a costly endeavour. But now there's a new way.
What Is Building Type E?
Gebäudetyp E, or Building Type E in English, stands for “simple” or “experimental” construction. The concept aims to allow for flexibility from rigid technical standards and established building norms (also known as “generally accepted rules of technology” or aRdT).
While fundamental requirements like structural integrity, fire safety, and environmental protection remain in place, many existing regulations—some of which drive up costs and can even have ecological downsides—could be relaxed under this model.
The Benefits of Building Type E
The goal of Building Type E is to open up the regulatory system to simpler and more experimental approaches. It enables streamlined construction methods and could support the creation of affordable housing or the adaptive reuse of existing structures.
The key lies in a collaborative definition of project goals and quality standards between architects and clients—independent of strict regulatory norms, yet still guided by them where useful.
Real-World Examples and Pilot Projects
Several pilot projects already demonstrate how sustainable and cost-efficient construction is achievable. These case studies prove that creative solutions outside conventional norms are not only viable, but can also lead to significant long-term operational savings.
Challenges and Legal Considerations
One major obstacle is that DIN standards are often automatically interpreted as “generally accepted rules of technology” (aRdT), making it difficult to legally justify deviations. This leads to legal uncertainty.
A recent legal analysis recommends excluding aRdT by default in contracts between building professionals, unless explicitly stated. This would give builders and designers more freedom—without compromising the safety or function of the buildings.
The Road Ahead
The current status and proposed processes for implementing Building Type E were presented at a national symposium and approved by the cabinet in November 2024. While legal questions remain, the German federal government supports the initiative, hoping that the necessary legal changes can soon be enacted. However, due to the change of government, the proposal has not yet been signed into law.
Architects need greater freedom to meet today’s urgent challenges—such as the housing shortage and the demand for sustainable construction—with creativity and innovation. Building Type E has the potential to transform architecture in Germany, creating new opportunities for innovative, affordable, and sustainable projects.
All eyes are now on how quickly the legal framework can adapt to turn this bold vision into reality.
We hope it happens soon to allow more people to finance a property and get started on their retirement plans.
