B6449 - Renovation and Conservation of the Built Heritage M

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student is able to develop technical and design solutions aimed at defining the interventions to be implemented in the field of building renovation and performance upgrading of the built environment

Course contents

The course is organized into interrelated instructional modules designed to provide students with an integrated knowledge base concerning interventions on the built heritage. It offers an in-depth exploration of technical-construction issues, architectural and functional retrofitting, and energy performance enhancement. The course structure consists of a theoretical component and a practical component, the latter conducted through group work activities.

1. Theoretical Modules Interventions on Historic Masonry Buildings in Seismic Contexts

This module aims to provide foundational knowledge regarding theoretical approaches and technical solutions for the conservation, maintenance, and seismic upgrading of historic buildings. The content is structured into two parts:

• Part One focuses on the theoretical principles underlying intervention strategies. It includes a critical analysis of the structural logic of historic masonry systems and explores the interplay between theory and construction practices in pre-modern architecture through selected case studies and exemplary theoretical frameworks.

• Part Two addresses practical intervention methodologies for the rehabilitation of historic buildings, with a particular emphasis on traditional anti-seismic techniques. The module adopts both a theoretical and hands-on approach to the application of these methods in real-world contexts.

Criteria and Practices for the Energy Retrofit of Existing Buildings

This module explores the challenges and strategies associated with improving the energy performance of existing buildings. Emphasis is placed on:

• Adapting existing structures to current energy efficiency standards;

• Analyzing the technical and economic feasibility of retrofit solutions;

• Evaluating the appropriateness of interventions through cost-benefit analysis and performance assessment;

• Understanding regulatory frameworks and sustainability criteria.

Readings/Bibliography

R.Gulli, Recupero e conservazione degli edifici. Tutela e prevenzione in ambito sismico. Edicom, 2021.

Teaching methods

The course includes lectures (ex cathedra) and a design laboratory.

The practical component will focus on the design of a restoration project for a masonry building, specifically addressing seismic upgrading and energy retrofitting. Students will work in groups to develop technical and architectural solutions, applying the theoretical knowledge acquired during lectures to a case study.

Assessment methods

Individual assessment will be based on an oral examination covering the topics discussed in the lectures and addressed in the respective teaching modules.

Project work assessment will be based on the presentation of analytical and design outputs, following guidelines and formats that will be specified during the course.

Office hours

See the website of Riccardo Gulli

See the website of Giorgia Predari