Author(s)

S. BRUNORO

Abstract

The paper summarizes the experience carried out by the Department of Architecture of the University of Ferrara in cooperation with ACER (Emilia Romagna public housing company) to assess the state of decay of a large part of social buildings between Ferrara and Reggio Emilia and to suggest architectural and technical interventions in order to meet new requirements both in terms of energy efficiency and architectural value. The main aim was to provide strategies of refurbishment mainly considering feasibility, real conditions and the cost of construction besides of the new energy efficiency standard. Examples of interventions focused on the use of renewable energies and sustainable technologies for building envelopes (e.g. external thermal insulation, greenhouses) are examined.

Keywords

Energy retrofit, renewable energies, social housing, sustainable technologies.