A new specialized online portal dedicated to building conservation and renovation has launched, emphasizing that the future of construction lies not in new buildings but in how we handle existing structures. The portal, called BauNetz Wissen Building with Existing Structures, addresses what experts consider the central challenges of construction's future, including climate protection, building culture, and housing availability.
According to the portal, approximately 85 percent of buildings in Europe were constructed before the year 2000, with many featuring low energy efficiency standards. These existing structures not only dominate the urban landscape but also shape neighborhoods and cultural identity across the continent. The new resource aims to tackle this complex cross-cutting planning challenge by providing comprehensive guidance on working with the built environment.
The portal offers detailed explanations of fundamental principles, legal frameworks, and funding opportunities for building conservation projects. It highlights both the opportunities and challenges inherent in renovation work while consolidating practical expertise across multiple areas. Coverage includes building assessments, maintenance and modernization, reconstruction and additions, serial renovation techniques, and historic preservation requirements.
To demonstrate the diverse strategies available for working with existing buildings, the portal showcases several completed projects. In Munich, the Werkhalle 3 at Triebwerk Neuaubing underwent heritage-compliant revitalization, while a former heating plant was transformed into the Bergson cultural center. In Dresden, a former chocolate factory now houses an integrated family center, illustrating the potential for adaptive reuse of industrial buildings.
The specialized portal is being written and regularly updated by experts working in collaboration with the BauNetz Wissen editorial team. The project is made possible through a partnership with Schüco, a major industry partner. The initiative reflects growing recognition that sustainable construction practices must focus primarily on upgrading and repurposing the massive stock of existing buildings rather than pursuing new construction projects.
