Abstract: The WellBEH project proposes the development of an original reflection method called ReCARe, through its application to practical cases for the integrated design of a diagnosis and intervention plan based on the challenging articulation of three pillars: preservation of housing heritage; improvement of energy efficiency; and enhancement of residents’ comfort. WellBEH views intervention practices as the result of an integrated exercise, combining historical and architectural values, bioclimatic strategies and participatory processes, in which Architecture and Research – through the Project – play a fundamental role. This research project is based on a coherent approach to the built environment as a process for decision-making in the context of preserving architectural heritage in balance with current environmental and social needs, while also considering the uses of spaces and their respective impact on energy consumption to enhance the comfort of residents. Intervention in modern architecture is an urgent and complex process, both due to the necessary response to contemporary societal challenges (e.g. climate adaptation and well-being), and due to the deep connection with the cultural and heritage values of this legacy. Within this context, particular attention should be paid to standard housing estates with distinctive characteristics and enormous potential for adaptation and improvements in efficiency and comfort. These buildings constitute a significant part of the urban and cultural fabric, yet are frequently overlooked in intervention policies. Managing the preservation of this heritage through energy-sustainable solutions is a pressing and fundamental challenge to ensure the continuity and value of these estates whilst safeguarding the well-being and comfort of their residents. The project brings together a team of architects, engineers and sociologists, with diverse experiences and professional backgrounds, as well as international consultants with distinguished track records in the project’s disciplinary fields. WellBEH also fosters greater cooperation between academia, industry and society in the implementation of new approaches to built heritage. WellBEH stems from the knowledge gained through the research project ‘Design and Intervention between Form and Function’ [CEEC/INST/00162/2018] in analysing the relationship between intervention strategies and energy sustainability measures. WellBEH will also work in conjunction with the activities carried out by the International Committee of Experts on Technology of Docomomo and Docomomo Portugal.
Scientific Area(s): Architecture; Civil Engineering; Sociology
Target population / End beneficiaries: Residents of the municipal district of Cerco do Porto.
Timeline: January 2025-August 2026
Team: Luciana Rocha (Principal Investigator) (CEAU/FAUP), Rui Fernandes Póvoas (Co-Principal Investigator) (CEAU/FAUP), Ana Tostões (CITUA/IST-UL), Ana Sofia Guimarães (FEUP), Azar Mohammadpanah (CEAU/FAUP), Eliseu Gonçalves (CEAU/FAUP), Gisela Lameira (CEAU/FAUP), Giuseppe Galbiati (USI, Suíça), José Virgílio Borges Pereira (IS-UP/FLUP), Pedro Varela (CEAU/FAUP), Marco Reschetti (FAUP), Martina Ghilardi (FAUP)
