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This module introduces the methods, practices, and consequences of retrofit measures utilised to decrease energy demand and improve the environmental performance of our buildings and equips students with the knowledge required to identify solutions and issues associated with retrofit implementation. It will introduce the key drivers for retrofit in the built environment as well as the policy landscape and assessment tools and methodologies (such as the Passivhaus framework) that underpin it. In addition to methods applicable to the general stock, the module will also explore approaches applicable to more challenging sectors of the stock such as heritage buildings via sustainable strategies for conservation and reuse, while taking into consideration implementation implications, including the optimisation of social, economic and environmental resources that will provide opportunities for students to gain an understanding of how different sociocultural factors influence outcomes and perspectives. The module will explore the following: (1) Determine the key principles of retrofitting the built environment (2) Investigate the range of solutions, approaches, and issues associated with retrofit (3) Introduce the concept of unintended consequences of retrofit interventions or adaptations (4) Demonstrate how the frameworks such as Passivhaus and EnerPhit retrofit standards are applied (5) Provide an understanding of heritage buildings from the material, environmental and cultural perspectives, including their sustainability merits; (6) Highlight strategies for supporting environmental sustainability of heritage buildings, including control of environmental conditions, energy performance, use of renewable energy. Throughout the module, the issues of conservation, durability, and compatibility of materials will be explored, highlighting the key differences between modern and historic construction practices and considering the socio-cultural expectations and conditions. Project Based Learning supplemented with workshops designed to introduce new concepts, and develop hands-on skills of importance to students’ projects. All 30-credit modules will be led by 2 module co-leaders with different educational backgrounds and expertise.

The aims of the module are to:

• Provide a sound understanding of the key drivers, policies, approaches and issues surrounding the retrofit of buildings.
• Understand the methods to improve environmental conditions, energy performance and use of renewable energy in buildings, ensuring durability and compatibility are accounted for.
• Understand strategies for supporting the environmental sustainability of heritage buildings considering theirÌýmaterial, environmental and cultural values.

By the end of the module students should be able to:

• Have a sound understanding of the principles and approaches to retrofit, including Passivhaus & EnerPHit standards & requirements.
• Be able to consider theÌýcost/benefit over several timescales of retrofit strategies and suggest and test the effectiveness of alternative strategies and approaches.
• Understand the interconnection of the unintended consequences of retrofit interventions or adaptations.
• Understand the policy and regulatory landscape that impacts built environment retrofit.
• Understand the challenges around retrofitting historic buildings to reduce energy consumption.
• Identify strategies for extending the life of historic buildings and upgrading their performance.