Retrofitting our built environment has the potential to save up to 80% of our embodied carbon emissions. I joined Atelier Ten at FOOTPRINT+ to learn from architects, clients, developers, structural engineers and asset managers who are at the forefront of the retrofit movement.

Despite the varied experiences shared by the speakers at this year’s Retrofit Agenda stage, three common threads emerged that will enable the real estate and construction industry to take decarbonisation to the next level.

COLLABORATION
Working with the right partners in a constructive, creative way is more than just about sharing a common goal – it’s about upskilling everyone in the industry, from designers, engineers and public and private clients. Innovative concepts need to be shared within project teams and within the wider industry to ensure they are adopted more widely.

INFORMATION
From archival research, material sampling and stress testing existing structures, to ensuring clean communication between planners, architects, developers and engineers through clear and comprehensive optioneering, getting the right information at the right time is crucial for widespread retrofit of the built environment. After all, no two projects are the same, and all retrofit projects require upfront information to help guide decision-makers. Post-completion monitoring can help unlock further operational reductions.

LEGISLATION
Legislation provides a crucial framework for developers, investors and architects and can help incentivise the sector towards desired outcomes. In the UK, many argue that removing VAT would make retrofit a more viable option, while many US cities, such as New York impose their own regulation and levy fines on energy-inefficient buildings to encourage renovation and retrofit.

It was also great to catch up, meet everyone and get in touch with old and new contacts from Hawkins\Brown, Simten, Threefold Architects and EPR Architects and JTRE London.

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By Peter Smisek,

Content Editor,

Caro Communications