RIBA: AO PRESENT RETROFIT PROJECTS AT RIBA SEMINAR

Alexander Owen were proudly asked to speak at RIBA’s HQ on Portland Place to present 3 case studies as part of a seminar on retrofitting historic buildings to a room of architects:

RIBA Seminar: Retrofitting Historic Buildings

Tuesday 16 Sep, 6-8.30pm

The RIBA, 66 Portland Place

Retrofitting traditional and historic is one of the key challenges for the UK built environment. A holistic approach is required to make these buildings environmentally, socially and economically sustainable.

This seminar explores the issues and solutions surrounding historic building retrofits, adopting a practical approach illustrated by case studies and the latest research.

In addition to quantifiable considerations such as technical options, planning legislation, capital costs and efficiency standards, less tangible issues will also be considered. Occupant behaviour, performance predictions, conservation principles, aesthetics and occupied building retrofit must all be understood. Architects need to know when to engage planning and conservation bodies, how to marry modern materials with old buildings, and what could go wrong.

This seminar will focus on London, drawing on other UK projects and policy as applicable. It will cover:

–       Key elements of a successful refurbishment strategy

–       Constraints (e.g. planning, technical, financial) of upgrading historic buildings, and how to overcome them

–       Risks of inappropriate interventions

–       Introduction of modern materials into traditional buildings

–       What is meant by ‘success’ for sustainable historic building retrofits