Traditional Buildings Back to the Future. Adaptive Energy Efficiency in Reuse

This study examines the impact of building use variable on the energy retrofit for vernacular buildings. In Italy, the main part of the building stock is composed of urban textures based on vernacular buildings. This part shares regional values and features that distinguish the landscape and influence the global primary energy demand of buildings sector. Moreover, historical towns underwent a renovation process which includes changes of use driven by economic factors and totally unaware of the effect on energy performance. The result of the study shows that the criterion of appropriate building use transformation could lead to a consistent reduction in energy demand for heating and cooling. A case study of the Casa Medori in Civita di Bagnoregio (Italy) demonstrates that this reduction is about 20%. Based on the findings, it can, therefore, be stated that to determine the suitable building use in relation to energy performance is crucial to limit others retrofit strategies that affect building elements and appearance. Besides, this criterion complies with conservation principles for cultural heritage and retains the significance of the building.