Publication: Energy efficient refurbishment strategies in 100 years-old single family houses
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Type
Thesis
Degree
MA
Date
2025
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Published Version
Abstract
This master thesis examines whether and to what extent interior design can contribute to the energy-efficient refurbishment of existing single-family homes. The focus is on developing and elaborating strategies that demonstrate the extent to which interior architecture can act as a bridge between the preservation of architectural identity and technical modernisation. How can spaces be created that meet both parts, the historical character of a building and the ecological requirements?
The basis for this is the issue of climate change and, in this context, the increasing urgency for sustainable construction. Ambitious climate goals in Germany, such as climate neutrality by 2045, advocate the relevance of renovating existing buildings. In Germany in particular, a large proportion of the building stock consists of old buildings, which is why energy optimisation can serve as a central lever for CO2 savings and more climate-friendly living.
In the course of this master thesis, it emerges that interior architecture can be used as a mediating bridge between history and the demands of the present. Furthermore, this thesis also refers to theoretical concepts such as adaptive reuse and the palimpsest approach, as well as to technical knowledge such as embodied energy to show strategies how interior design can contribute to old buildings. Spaces are seen here as a projection surface for the future and also serve as preservers and carriers of historical narratives. An example of an energy modernisation in a detached house in Darmstadt shows how successfully old houses can work with new technologies. This shows that an energy-efficient refurbishment does not have to compromise comfort or destroy the character of the building. On the contrary, through targeted planning and design sensitivity and technical innovation, both requirements can be achieved.
This master thesis comes to the conclusion that interior design can serve as a bridge in today's world as well as in this important area of interaction. It plays a key role in the design of spaces and at the same time conveys values. Interior design is the link between functionality and atmosphere, between what has been and what is yet to come.