This article challenges the assumptions of the techno-economic paradigm that has dominated U.K. energy policy and associated domestic energy efficiency programs since the 1970s. The process of development of an alternative conceptual framework, the everyday householder-centered approach, is described. The study began with semistructured interviews with domestic energy efficiency program providers, the results of which guided a subsequent literature review. The developed framework was structured around three core traits of the everyday householder in the context of information and advice programs for domestic energy efficiency: self-interest, energy knowledge, and cognitive capacity. The conceptual framework is presented for practical application in guiding the development of effective information and advice-focused domestic energy efficiency programs.

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Novel architectural forms can be created by connecting reciprocal frame (RF) and mutually supported elements (MSE) circuits together. These networks produce interesting architectural and engineering opportunities and challenges. The opportunities include the creation of roof and standalone structures that have distinctive architectural expression. The challenges include the determination of the often-complex configuration geometry between the elements and their connection system. A key feature of sloping RF and MSE geometry is that at the joint locations the element's centroidal axes generally do not coincide. An eccentricity at these positions has therefore to be incorporated within the connection system. This has a direct impact on element sizing, connection design, fabrication and erection sequences. RF and MSE spatial structure networks give rise to complex structural behaviour. Element-to-element connection eccentricity orientation is a controlling key feature in the determination of how the forces, moments and stresses are distributed between MSEs. The orientation of the eccentricity can be random or aligned to produce a vertical intersection distance as generally used in RF construction. The eccentricity derived from the common perpendicular to the centroidal axes is more commonly used in MSE circuit assembly. This paper considers the various methods used to connect RF and MSE networks and discusses their impact and comparative design advantages and disadvantages.

The paper presents the opportunities and challenges of reciprocal frame (RF) structures. These are discussed through some recently built, innovative examples such as the Mount Rokko-Shidare Observatory in Japan and the Kreod Pavilion in UK, as well as through the explorations with physical models in both small and full scale carried out over the last few years at The Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts School of Architecture in Copenhagen. The RF structure gives the potential for achieving novel and expressive curved three-dimensional complex forms, using straight members. At the same time, it offers the possibility for fast and simple construction using low-tech techniques and simple joints. This makes it a possible solution for many types of applications, ranging from short-span canopies, to geometrically complex structural forms, to rapidly constructed emergency shelters after disasters. No other structural system can offer the same level of variability and scope for different applications.

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The main aim of this paper is to present the different types of load-bearing woven systems that stand by friction or with the use of a locking device. A review of the different types of systems has been done and an attempt of classification has been proposed. The paper focuses on the different types of elements that can be used to create reciprocal systems or nexorades. Configurations with elongated, ring, tile and block elements are shown. The different parameters that define such structures are also presented. Although the description of the parameters is quite easy for simple construction, a broader approach is still needed to be done for more complex configurations.

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