Should We Be Talking More About Refurbishment?

“The most sustainable building is the one that already exists.” This statement encapsulates the fundamental principle of architectural refurbishment, which prioritizes the reuse of existing structures while minimizing the environmental impact of new constructions. As cities expand, materials deteriorate, and the effects of demolition and new developments become more apparent, refurbishment in architecture becomes more relevant. This approach seeks sustainability by repurposing the built environment and enhancing it to meet modern standards of energy efficiency while preserving its historical and cultural value.

Rather than demolishing old buildings and investing in new materials—which consumes valuable resources and generates significant waste—refurbishment allows architects to work with the existing urban fabric, updating it to meet contemporary demands for comfort and efficiency. Additionally, it avoids the creation of much of the embodied carbon—the carbon associated with the production and transportation of new materials. When well-planned, refurbishment can significantly improve a building’s energy performance through upgrades such as better thermal insulation, high-performance glazing, and the integration of renewable energy sources.

Beyond environmental benefits, refurbishment plays a crucial social role. In densely populated and consolidated urban areas, where space for new construction is limited, the renovation of existing buildings offers a viable solution to meet the growing demand for housing without compromising the cohesion of local communities. The adaptation of old buildings to new uses and their alignment with modern sustainability standards represent a unique opportunity to balance development with preservation. In this edition of the Building Future Newsletter, we will explore examples of refurbishments that have transformed buildings, giving them new life and relevance in today’s context.

See you in the next edition!

Eduardo Souza, Senior Editor, Brands & Materials

Refurbishment vs. Demolition: Enhancing Housing for Sustainable Energy Efficiency

Discover how refurbishing buildings with energy-efficient materials and systems extends their lifespan and reduces environmental impact.

Housing Refurbishment in Latin America: 10 Projects that Excel in the Use of Materials

These projects combine circularity with tradition, addressing local challenges and incorporating Indigenous, colonial, and modern influences.

Preserving Local Identity with Urban Renewal and Innovation in S?o Paulo

Sustainable architecture in LAPI: Reuse of demolition materials and eco-friendly practices to revitalize urban spaces.

Will Refurbishment be the Architectural Specialization of the Future?

How to update (and even automate) the buildings of the past to adapt to new needs for efficiency, sustainability and well-being?

The Hidden Carbon Cost of Climate Retrofits

Explore the challenges and benefits of integrating circular economy principles in building retrofits for a more sustainable future.

Integrating New Material Systems and Future-Proofing Listed Buildings

Integrating modern materials and building systems into listed buildings while preserving their historic character and ensuring their functional longevity.