The earliest surviving written work on the subject of architecture is De architectura, by the Roman architect Vitruvius in the early 1st century AD According to Vitruvius, a good building should satisfy the three principles of firmitas, utilitas, venustas,commonly known by the original translation – firmness, commodity and delight. An equivalent in modern Design.

In the late 20th century a new concept was added to those included in the compass of both structure and function, the consideration of sustainability, hence sustainable architecture. To satisfy the contemporary ethos a building should be constructed in a manner which is environmentally friendly in terms of the production of its materials, its impact upon the natural and built environment of its surrounding area and the demands that it makes upon non-sustainable power sources for heating, cooling, water and waste management and lighting.

Durability – a building should stand up robustly and remain in good condition.

Utility – it should be suitable for the purposes for which it is used.

Beauty – it should be aesthetically pleasing.