Criteria for enhancing comfort and liveability conditions in homogenous built contexts through innovative façade interventions

This research is conducted within the framework of the Interconnected Nord-Est Innovation Ecosystem (iNEST) project, funded by the Next Generation EU and the Italian National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP). The global project focuses on developing sustainable solutions for the built environment in Northeastern Italy, aligning with both UN Agenda 2030 and European directives on energy transition, environmental protection, and climate change adaptation. This research refers to the methodology Renovation through Design for Adaptability/Flexibility/Change to analyze and enhance existing buildings, with particular emphasis on façade systems and spatial concepts. The research applies to the case study of the Panzano residential District (1907–1927), a historic workers’ village associated with the Monfalcone shipyards, comprising of over 600 dwellings. This district exemplifies the challenge of balancing the general requirements for adapting dwelling units to contemporary needs, providing additional spaces, and mitigating energy impacts while preserving the historical value of the built heritage of a 20th -century company town. In the research approach, technology should become an integral component of the architectural design process, focusing on façade systems as a key point. These interventions aim to enhance environmental comfort, to ensure the transformability of interior spaces, and to foster inclusive interactions between individuals and their environment, while maintaining compatibility with the principles of heritage preservation. The developed methodology contributes to defining effective approaches for renovating existing buildings, while addressing both the technological and social aspects of sustainability.