Facade Renovation Study “Elisabethhochhaus”

The renovation of an urban architectural structure built in the last century is crucial to satisfy even more demanding social needs and comfort levels and reduce energy consumption. We examine the renovation possibilities of the high-rise building “Elisabethhochhaus” in Graz built-in 1967. 
As of aim, weathering of the concrete construction elements is to be prevented together with the building energy consumption reduction. Two options are studied, each including photovoltaic façade elements integration, once with a thermal skin renovation and once without it. 
Potential photovoltaics yields and, due to expected reduced heating requirements, are compared with an initial value of the building’s energy consumption. These consist of a 289 340 kWh/a electricity consumption and a 744 706 MWh/a district heating consumption read from the yearly energy cost bills and recomendations for the calculation from Austrian norms. Assumption of construction costs must be considered and compared as the actual start of construction is planned for 2023. 
We study and define the basic requirements for structural and architectural renovation. These include moisture issues prevention, reduction of heating and cooling requirements, the possibility of energy saving, the architectural expression of the building changes in its geometry, colour, construction, living comfort, and the impact on the urban fabric and public spaces quality and others. 
The final report presents the knowledge exchange with specialists from building physics, thermal and structural engineering, façade planners, photovoltaic system specialists, local energy suppliers and architects.