A Conceptual Methodology for the Renovation of Multi-apartment Buildings with a Combined Performance and Lifecycle Approach

Abstract

Background. Renovation of existing buildings has become a crucial tool to keep the built environment functional, by which unnecessary waste of resources can be reduced. Although many assessment methods and indicators are set, with the booming “renovation wave”, a question that counters us is how influential and intact these are as a measuring tool. Several debates have emerged in the literature on the integration of different indicators and approaches to have a better way of accessing the buildings.  

Purpose. The aim of the study was, first, to have a set of integrated indicators for the renovation of residential buildings and, second, to develop an assessment methodology aimed at a comprehensive evaluation of the renovation process throughout its lifecycle stages. A requirement specification and an outline of the tool were developed based on the literature review and the survey. 

Design. The study has applied a qualitative multi-method research approach, including an online survey with experts, and case studies. The survey was part of renovation needs, barriers and evaluation methods and indicators comprising four sections addressed to experts about building renovation. The aim was, besides collecting general knowledge about the renovation in practice, to identify key indicators and areas where development or modification could have effect during the renovation. The developed methodology was applied in a case scenario of a multi-apartment building in Lithuania.

Conclusions. This paper included the development of a combined methodology which applies to the renovation of the existing multi-apartment buildings with a checklist of indicators corresponding to environment, economic, and social aspects.