Transformation and Adaptive Re-Use of Existing Buildings

This course is an introduction of transformation and reuse of existing buildings, focusing on their potential in a life cycle perspective. Various methodologies and tools are used to get an overview of buildings technical, functional performance (usability) and adaptability to meet new demands for the future (reuse). It gives an assessment analysis of building or buildings portfolio potential, as a starting point to manage the transformation processes. This analysis is important to minimize the gap between existing building performance and new demands and regulations. The focus will be on the transformation management, together with special topics on rebuilding techniques, old construction methods, building traditions and challenges of the upgrading process.

Knowledge

The course gives basic knowledge about

• transformation processes and management of reuse based on alteration of existing buildings
• earlier construction methods, building traditions, former legislation
• methods and tools for analyzing architectural quality and building performance (technical -, environmental -, economy (life cycle costs) and social aspects) and thereof potential of refurbishment
• challenges to bridge the gaps according to the regulations.
• knowledge about tools and methods for -management and development of buildings
• methods and regulations relating to energy, environment and waste
• fire protection / safety, energy efficiency, Universal Design to extend the life cycle of building.
• special challenges such as cost calculation, procurement documents, technical systems into old buildings etc

Skills

The course shall give the student practical skills to:

• perform condition surveys in all aspects using tools and methods to detect potential for refurbishment
• use of analytical methods, tools and legislation that are relevant in refurbishment and transmission projects
• understand the principles for sustainable preservation and development of existing buildings.
• have knowledge about technical -, environmental - and social condition in management and development of buildings.
• use basic tools and methods in a transformation process

General competence

• To understand principles of sustainable conservation and development of existing building stock
• methods and regulations related to energy, environment and waste, fire safety / security, energy efficiency, universal design to extend the building's life cycle
• special challenges in costing, tender documents, technical systems in old buildings, etc

Lectures together with a practical obligatory project assignment. The project should be done as group work, attached to a practical refurbishment project, and a more theoretical individual assignment.

In order to be eligible for the exam you must pass the compulsory assignments. Mandatory exercises consist of an oral presentation, and at least 80% attendance at the lectures.