Enabling energy-efficient renovation: the case of vertical extension to buildings. Issue 1 (5th March 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sundling, Rikard; Blomsterberg, Åke; Landin, Anne
• Is Part Of: Construction innovation. Volume 19:Issue 1(2019)
• Page Start: 2
• Page End: 14
• Publication Date: 2019-03-05
• Subjects: Energy -- Densification -- Energy-efficient renovation -- Lifecycle impact assessment -- Lifecycle profit analysis -- Vertical extension of buildings; Construction industry -- Data processing -- Periodicals; Information technology -- Management -- Periodicals; 690.0285
• DOI: 10.1108/CI-04-2018-0034
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1471-4175

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: This paper is based on a study of six similar buildings built in Gothenburg, Sweden, in 1971, which were in urgent need of renovation. A life cycle profit analysis shows how four competing concepts were evaluated to find a financially viable renovation concept; additionally, the environmental impacts of these renovation concepts using a life cycle assessment are presented. Design/methodology/approach: Four renovation concepts are compared to find the most appropriate concept, namely, minimalist, code-compliant, low-energy and low-energy plus vertical extension concepts. The methods used for comparison are life cycle profit analysis and life cycle impact assessment; the methods used for data gathering included site visits, interviews, document study, co-benefits study and energy simulation. Findings: The findings show that vertical extension supported the energy-efficient renovation of the buildings and that the combination of low-energy and the vertical extension had the highest return on investment and the lowest environmental impact. The selected concept for renovating the remaining five buildings combined was the low-energy plus vertical extension. Additional benefits from vertical extension include more apartments in central locations for the housing company, a wider variety of apartment layouts and a wider range of tenants. Drawbacks include increased use of infrastructure, green space and common appliances, as well as gentrification. Originality/value: This study shows how a vertical extension can financially enable an energy-efficient renovation and further lower its environmental impact. Benefits and drawbacks of densification are also highlighted to better understand the implementation of vertically extending a building.