OVERVIEW
Conventional wisdom might suggest that structural integrity and other kinds of durability are the keys to designing lasting buildings. Real-world evidence suggests otherwise.
The decision to demolish is typically complicated, emotional, and entwined in local political, social, and economic concerns. It’s often more related to deferred maintenance and occupant dissatisfaction—factors that feed a vicious cycle of long-term building degradation.
One thing is clear, though: the embodied impacts of renovation are usually dramatically lower than the impacts of new construction. Here you’ll learn why this is, some strategies for saving buildings, and how to decide when something is just ready to be torn down.
IN-DEPTH
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When Investing in Energy Retrofits Makes Sense
June 5, 2018News Brief
Thoughtful analysis and spending across the portfolio can result in better ROI, according to research from the Rocky Mountain Institute.
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The Sound of Sustainability: Acoustics in High-Performance Design
September 6, 2017Feature Article
Acoustic performance is often overlooked by human-centered design. A holistic approach shows how to navigate the complexities of “sustainable acoustics.”
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Mind the Gaps: Making Existing Buildings More Airtight
July 25, 2017Feature Article
Leaky building enclosures create health hazards, comfort problems, and high energy bills. Fixing them isn’t rocket science; but you’d better know your building science.
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20 Ways to Advance Sustainability in the Next Four Years
January 4, 2017Feature Article
In this age of political revolution and environmental urgency, it’s time to step back and take a look at priorities, challenges, and opportunities
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The Death and Rebirth of DC Power
August 4, 2016Feature Article
Direct current is replacing AC in microgrids and other setups that maximize the efficiency of lighting, HVAC, and onsite renewables.
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Design Strategies for Occupant Engagement—and Why They Boost Performance
July 6, 2015Feature Article
Researchers reveal simple ways to empower occupants to reduce energy, water, and waste. It all starts with good design.
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Raze or Retrofit? Six Extraordinary Answers to an Everyday Question
November 3, 2014Feature Article
Saving a building is usually an environmental win, but thoughtful renovation isn’t easy. And there comes a time to tear things down.
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New York State Launches Initiative to Scale Net-Zero Retrofits
July 25, 2017News Brief
The state has budgeted $30 million to develop a self-sufficient, private sector-based market for deep energy retrofits of multifamily buildings.
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Whole-Building Life-Cycle Assessment: Taking the Measure of a Green Building
April 29, 2013Feature Article
Why we will never understand the true impact of our buildings-and how we should try to anyway
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Study Reinforces Carbon Benefit of Renovation
May 25, 2017News Brief
A new study of the U.N. headquarters demonstrates how retrofitting existing buildings is a critical strategy for addressing the urgency of climate change.
