In May 2025, the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) and the Irish Green Building Council (IGBC) launched the Design for Performance (DfP) framework.
DfP is designed to support project teams in embedding, meeting and verifying sustainable building performance targets from early design stages through to post-occupancy.
DfP indicators
The framework focuses on four key environmental indicators: whole-life carbon, energy consumption, water usage and indoor environmental quality. Performance targets for these indicators align with RIAI’s 2030 Climate Challenge (2021), which sets numerical benchmarks to guide design decisions and promote improved environmental outcomes.
Methodology
DfP provides architects with a detailed methodology for achieving these benchmarks including a Microsoft Excel-based Project Tracker, reporting templates and stage-specific guidance aligned with RIAI work stages 01–08 and relevant EU standards.
Intended purpose
The framework aims to enhance architectural practice by increasing design accountability, fostering collaboration between building professions and aligning with future environmental regulations.
Through DfP, RIAI and IGBC say they are positioning the Republic of Ireland as leaders in sustainable design in keeping with emerging European best practice.
The full framework guidance can be read here.
If you have any questions or comments about the DfP framework, please contact Curtis Large, RSUA Policy and Public Affairs Officer, at curtis@rsua.org.uk
