Seismic and Energy Renovation for Sustainable Cities

The complex, multicriterial renovation of housing

districts. Integrated concept of projects for houses and
city. Results of “SIR research project” in Romania
Codruta Iana; Mihaela Stela Georgescu; Cristina Victoria Ochinciuc;
Carmen Dumitrescu; Cerasella Craciun; Ana Opris
University of Architecture and Urbanism “Ion Mincu”, Bucharest, Romania, 18-20 Academiei Street; 010014 Bucharest,
Romania, phone: 0040213077154, fax: 0040213077105

Abstract

The paper presents the results of the research project, SIR: "Integrated solutions for the rehabilitation of the
complexes, buildings and units", carried-out during 2008-2011, in the framework of an interdisciplinary Romanian
National R-D Plan – PNII.
The coordinator was UAUIM – University of Architecture and Urbanism “Ion Mincu” Bucharest, having as partners
Technical Universities of Cluj – Napoca and Iasi, research institutes ICPE and IPCT-Installations.
The authors have proposed a methodology for complex analysis and intervention in the rehabilitation of dwellings. A
new concept for the rehabilitation of existing multi-story residential buildings has been studied: complex,
multicriterial, integrated urban and dwelling integration with respect to the specific requirements for sustainable
development. It was proposed a multicriterial labeling system and an overall performance Certificate. We proposed a
methodology for assessing the needs: check-lists, rules and regulations to be defined for further sustainable
development.
Advantages to be obtained: visibility, shorter execution times, lower investment costs to increase energy performance,
added value, community space, parking, playgrounds, etc. The project aimed at:
- Defining a methodology for analyzing / evaluating realities, diagnosing specific problems (several models of
analysis and criteria lists were studied and the analysis grid was chosen as a model adapted to the Minnesota
criteria, starting from which, it was proposed an IT program)
− Proposing a system for the assessment and certification of buildings and a model of Certificate. Performing an
analysis and diagnostic program.
− Selecting the technologies, materials, solutions to be used in the development of integrated rehabilitation
solutions.
− A case study of an ansamble of several multi-story buildings (11 to 5 stories) on which was applied the proposed
multicriterial analyses, including thermal rehabilitation with smart solutions, regenerable energy sources, interior
and urban scale modernization, vertical and horizontal extensions of different buildings.

Keywords: complex, multicriterial renovation of housing districts; integrated concept.

Mihaela Stela Georgescu; Cristina Victoria Ochinciuc; Carmen Dumitrescu; Codruta Iana; Cerasella Craciun; Ana Opris
Introduction

Problems of housing rehabilitation are based on many coordinates, from the relationship with the
environment, urban and natural, and ending with the new psycho-social relationships, and have changed
so much in the last 20 years in Romania. In the present context it must change this attitude and act on the
principles of sustainable development: it must take into account the lifecycle of the product, using new
materials, "green" technology and regenerative energies. To illustrate this approach, we will present some
elements of the SIR project - "INTEGRATED SOLUTIONS OF COLLECTIVE HOUSING
REHABILITATION IN ROMANIA"[2].
The general objectives of SIR project are to increase competitiveness by stimulating partnerships in
priority areas, targets were tracked using technologies, innovative products and services in solve complex
problems and creating mechanisms for implementation. The achievement of these goals is made through
research partnership between the coordinator University of Architecture Ion Mincu from Bucharest
(UAUIM) and two universities, UT Cluj and UT Gh. Asachi Iasi, a prestigious research facility ICPE S.A.
from Bucharest and a research facility with young researchers GREEN HEAT SYSTEMS SRL. Among
the project goals we can include:
 Creating an insight from analysis of the current situation, the concepts, requirements, evaluation
criteria and the development of methods, development of technical solutions, using innovative
technologies in the priority areas for the project energy and environment versus construction;
 Validation of knowledge through experimentation of the selected solutions, the synthesis of
innovative knowledge of proposals for regulations, choosing a pilot investigation as a case study,
implementation and wide dissemination in the interdisciplinary field of construction, and
architectural planning;
 Creating a new concept of rehabilitation and complex tools for multicriteria analysis for housing,
apartment blocks, residential community including public space
 Enhance the competitiveness of construction market by implementing innovative solutions
designed;
 Improving the quality of housing in order to increase the quality of life;
 Develop strategies for integrated rehabilitation approach.
Derived objectives of the project are the communities welfare that are living in apartment buildings
(personal property) by optimizing the criteria of quality and reliability and performance technology on the
principles of sustainable development.
The objective of this research is to identify problems arising from the complex process of
rehabilitation housing projects and provide integrated solutions for improved comfort, reduced energy
consumption and pollutant emissions, as well as identify ways to implement a sustainable development
strategy in the rehabilitation of housing. The research will develop a partnership between three
universities and two research institutes and will integrate critically the views of civil society and local
authorities.
The motto that precedes the "Official Journal of the European Union" C146/10 dated 06/30/2007 on
regional politics and the housing includes ideas concerning the physical relationship between landscape
and buildings, homes, jobs and local services, energy efficiency and sustainable development and avoid
residential areas of ghetto.[4] Educating local communities to acquire skills needed to improve areas
where they live, creating green spaces and improve energy efficiency can offer solutions to declining
neighborhoods, and may be a new source of labor employment.[5]
It is important that residential areas to reflect the culture of communities living there. Local landmarks,
such as community and religious centers, local markets or specialty stores, all are important for creating
communities.
1.1. SIR project has developed in several distinct stages [2]:
The complex, multicriteral renovation of housing districts. Integrated concept of projects for houses and city. Results of “sir
research project” in Romania
1-st stage:
 Documentation on various analytical models.
 Documentation on various types of rehabilitation intervention
 Organize information using a standardized form, organize a database.

2-nd stage
 Define a methodology for analysis and evaluation of concrete realities, diagnose specific
problems. We considered several models for analysis and lists of criteria and we eventually
chose as analytical model fits the criteria of Minnesota, from which it has developed a computer
program for analysis.
 Propose a system to evaluate and certify buildings.
 Computer program analysis and diagnosis
 Selection of technologies, materials, solutions for use in integrated solutions for rehabilitation.

1.2. Case Study

 We have chosen a representative case for problem areas and rehabilitation of housing units - a set
of buildings in the area of "Politehnica" in Bucharest.
 We did a survey of the area.
 We have identified and administered a questionnaire to clarify the specific problems in terms of
beneficiaries.
 It was then a proposal for rehabilitation complex, with solutions for sustainable architecture,
incorporating new materials, green technologies, modern and efficient, renewable energy, from
urban scale to construction detail. It was proposed to partially double facade, complete with a
volume of lateral attic and volumes. Solar panels for hot water and as photovoltaics,
greenhouses, green walls - it incorporated several elements into solutions that can optimize the
use of space and enhance comfort, while facilitating a better quality of life Community (Figure 1
and 2, images of the exterior and interior of the set).

1.3. Questions of strategy for implementing the methodology and proposed solutions.

 We will arrange meetings with project partners and representatives of beneficiaries and local
government and departments concerned.
 We will define a strategy for implementing the method of analysis and intervention.
 We will propose the adoption and implementation at the national certification system proposed
by our SIR project.
 We will build partnerships for the practical application of integrated solutions offered by the
project.
For each step we have used various means of dissemination: the realization of two web pages, writing
articles and presentations at various conferences. In the end the project, the research results will be
presented in volume and profile.
The methodology developed during this project can be applied for specific interventions as well as
large scale, involving integrated solutions tailored to specific situations. It intends to continue the study
through local initiatives for housing rehabilitation and also to the convergence with the European
development programs.

1.3. Discussion, Conclusions and Acknowledgements

Mihaela Stela Georgescu; Cristina Victoria Ochinciuc; Carmen Dumitrescu; Codruta Iana; Cerasella Craciun; Ana Opris

How to structure and develop research was well balanced and quite efficient. The results are (even
before the completion of the research) and promising, both in terms of the analysis on the concrete details,
the proposed solutions or implement the strategy. It is hoped that this project will trigger reactions and
good instigate significant changes in the way of understanding and begin the process of rehabilitation of
areas and apartment buildings.[1]

2. Project Overview

The central idea of the project is to define properly integrated systems that solve complex problems of
collective housing by the rehabilitation in the Romania.
The work of this project unfolds in the four main phases.
a) documentation;
b) generating a multicriteria system analysis and diagnosis for buildings to be rehabilitated using a
computer program whose end result is the proper strategy of rehabilitation for the subject in case
and also granting certificates of sustainable architecture that will certify the quality of works;
c) choosing a particular case for apply the theories above steps to generate a rehabilitation concept
and methodology of study and analysis to govern integrated rehabilitation project;
d) establishing practical implementation strategies of the concepts generated in the previous steps
by building partnerships and meetings with project partners and Local Government
Representatives of Institutions and Departments Concerned.

2.1. Key moments in the steps of progress

We can observe an important evolution in the regulatory process and evaluation in the European
Community and mention the subject's draft regulation for the EU Eco-label in May-June 2010, prepared
of European Parliament and subject to consultation with all EU countries. Thus, the examination and
certification system proposed by SIR project incorporates the main elements of this draft as well as
elements from other types of certifications developed of the research centers of universities as the
University from Minnesota or prepared of well-known organizations and BREEAM, LEEAD, or
rehabilitation concepts such as "Building for Life" in Britain.
Our first phase will operate a classification of buildings which are the subject of rehabilitation, after
two categories: the existing buildings and new buildings. These main categories are distinguished by a
different system of scoring problems.
The objectives pursued are:
 limiting the generation of waste and increase recycling activities;
 reducing energy and water consumption;
 promoting the use of materials with good performance in terms of relationship with
environment;
 encourage using of renewable resources and of substances which are less hazardous for the
environment;
 promoting the comfort and welfare state in the interior space;
 promoting information and education on proper management of building;
 educating on proper management of the impact of construction on the environment whether
urban or natural.
The complex, multicriteral renovation of housing districts. Integrated concept of projects for houses and city. Results of “sir
research project” in Romania
The general requirements for application and granting of Eco-label, applied by the SIR project are
those where the applicant must respond to the European legal regulations, national and local building
especially those relating to landscape and biodiversity conservation and water management on site.
Therefore, the building in case must be completed and in operation, built in respect of all legal and
statutory elements relevant to the site. Comply with European, national and local conservation laws and
regulations regarding especially water sources, water treatment and disposal, products and materials, the
subject applicant will respect the conventions about waste collection and disposal, equipment
maintenance and service and about the safety and health.
SIR project proposes a system of criteria which cover all fields, from the psycho-social to the
ecological impact on the environment, generating particular scoring criteria. After Eco-Label, the
necessary minimum score is 44 points will be grouped as follows:
 less than 6 points for criteria documentation chapters, Design, Construction, impact site;
 at least 26 points for criteria concerning the materials, energy and water consumption;
 at least 12 points for criteria from Health and well being, operation, maintenance and facilities
matters.

Fig. 1, Certificate model

One of SIR project proposals is a digital program which it can generate multi-criteria analysis of the
subjects studied, that will generate concrete applicable rehabilitation strategy. One of the major goals of
Mihaela Stela Georgescu; Cristina Victoria Ochinciuc; Carmen Dumitrescu; Codruta Iana; Cerasella Craciun; Ana Opris
this project is to develop and to provide a multicriterial analysis and granting certificates of sustainable
architecture, according to accumulated points calculated by this digital program. The quality of
construction is certified by granting “keys” bronze, silver, gold or platinum. SIR project proposes a
system of criteria which cover all fields, from the psycho-social to the ecological impact on the
environment, generating particular scoring criteria.
After Eco-Label, the necessary minimum score is 44 points will be grouped as follows:
 less than 6 points for criteria documentation chapters, Design, Construction, impact site;
 at least 26 points for criteria concerning the materials, energy and water consumption;
 at least 12 points for criteria from Health and well being, operation, maintenance and facilities
matters.
The research SIR aims to relate at the established labeling system for buildings as one developed by the
Research Center of University of Minnesota and published in the Minnesota Sustainable Design Guide,
keeping the principles of analysis of the main criteria (indicators) in the assessment of sustainable
buildings. Final assessment is based on a maximum score of 100 points. At the end of this process of
analysis, depending on the score gained, it will be appreciated providing a label as follows:
 Silver key: 52 - 67 points;
 Golden key: 69 - 81 points;
 Platinum key: 82 - 100 points.

2.2. Concept generation for rehabilitation of the communist block flats

Fig. 2,

Rehabilitation SIR concept

After several proposals, it was developed a concept to guide the rehabilitation project. It started from the
image provided by the housing blocks and the specific life style. Similar or identical from the point of
view of the general shape and appearance, residential buildings containing without any factor of
individualization, the apartments like cabinets, resemble strikingly well with of beehive. The averaging
policy of previous years of the ‘90s decade has resulted in blocks with volumetric conformation similar to
bee hives. The housing cell and the need of typification, has generated the concept of prefabrication
module. One point on which we must focus shall be the price. The high price of rehabilitation can only
The complex, multicriteral renovation of housing districts. Integrated concept of projects for houses and city. Results of “sir
research project” in Romania
lead to lower standards or giving up procedure. Thus, the advantages of standardized elements,
prefabricated, lower the cost price and provide the quality made by the industrial detail. In order to
operate this type of item without forgetting the individualization of the final product will be use the
module. We propose a module in hexagonal form, inspired by from shape of honeycomb cells. This
module will be the basic unit, multiplied or not, will accommodate the functions required by the
rehabilitation. The module thus established, will be found both in the plans conformation and in the
volume shape. Selected module shall be a hexagon with sides of 2 meters, creating an area of about 10
sqm. The first step is to create a project type, district studied by applying the concept on a particular site
from the study area.

2.3. Case study analysis

After an important documentation step, whose sources were from many fields of knowledge and has done
so visiting rehabilitated neighborhoods from Europe and by informing about the different experiences on
the subject, followed by a phase of establishing rehabilitation strategies based on a multicriteria system of
analysis and assessment from the dwelling unit up to urban planning, psycho-social problems to questions
of ecology and renewable energy.

Fig. 3, Example of urban studies

The research results made of the interdisciplinary team of the coordinator, UAUIM together with
students, are relevant for the purposes intended. The students have completed the survey of the area,
applied the questionnaire and helped to prepare the necessary gathering and information processing of the
case study. There were used also the results of the analysis of thermal rehabilitation of an apartment
block, located in the area under study, conducted of a team which includes members of the SIR team,
Prof. Dr. Eng. Mihaela Georgescu and Prof. Dr. Arch. Cristina Ochinciuc.
Considering the analysis and evaluation criteria listed above, we searched for a suitable area for a study
case. This should be as representative for the residential areas that we want to rehabilitate according with
the methodology proposed of SIR – it should be a well-defined urban area as defined by primary and
Mihaela Stela Georgescu; Cristina Victoria Ochinciuc; Carmen Dumitrescu; Codruta Iana; Cerasella Craciun; Ana Opris
secondary streets, parking, green spaces and built areas to present a more complex problem as a good
potential for intervention. Thus, we chose a residential section from a neighborhood-type bedroom, from
the east of the city, an area which arise pretty much all the typical problems that we face in the
neighborhoods built in the '90s.
 lack of balance between the functionality - of dwelling, facilities, services;
 unresolved traffic and parking problems;
 lack of equipment and landscaping of green spaces;
 lack of amenities required for a quality community life;
 relatively high age sections of blocks (built in the ‘70s) with all the matters related to facilities,
facade, roofing, insulation.
The advantages of choosing this area are:
 location in the city in an area under development and up-grading of standing;
 wide variety of urban spatial organization;
 generous green areas;
 variety of heights;
 sections of the block and variety of apartments, etc.

The proposals in terms of urban planning, landscape and architectural design, offer a full range of
options and solutions. It was covered a first stage of consultation with beneficiaries, the results of this
feedback were integrated in the study and elaboration of new proposals. According to the strategy
originally proposed, these consultations will be repeated on the scale and broad participation and in the
next stage (final) SIR project. The intention shall be having extended this study through a real
materialization.
For a better analysis of existing situation of the beneficiaries, we defined a questionnaire. The
questionnaire was presented to a number of residents from the area studied. Responses have provided
qualitative and quantitative information, very useful in analyzing the area and assess how local realities
are perceived by users. The questionnaire asked residents questions from several major chapters: the
traffic - both pedestrian as well as auto accessories from various fields, social, problems the existing and
proposed functions of people, functions present in the neighbourhood, block, housing units, economic,
comfort etc. After processing the responses to the questionnaire, it came to some conclusions concerning
the solution of rehabilitation, which changes and enriches the concept originally adopted and put in the
question. They refer to:
 need to extend the useful area the existing apartments;
 opportunity to increase the number of apartments through attic;
 extension of facade or roof solar;
 creation of underground spaces for parking in the spaces between the blocks, which integrate
harmonious in site.
The complex, multicriteral renovation of housing districts. Integrated concept of projects for houses and city. Results of “sir
research project” in Romania
Four categories of solutions are proposed:
I. Restoration of the buildings housing from the point of views that were found in the previous
research phases;
II. Adding additional space with house functionality, fulfilling the needs of residents, such as:
a. balconies closed containment greenhouse for buffer space;
b. dining room near the kitchen area or living room, where appropriate;
c. balconies or gardens with sun vertical orientation depending on;
III. Adding an attic for increase the percentage of occupancy for a metropolis, as Bucharest. Our
spaces are arranged housing obtained in two ways: simple and duplex. Access to them will be
made with a vertical circulation node that also serves the third volume of proposed project;
IV. Adding a new building that includes community functionality, often by survey questionnaires to
community needs, such as community administration offices, spaces for community events, such
after-school facilities, fitness rooms, rooms for community events.
Construction will have its own metallic structure covered with green terrace will become a common
area for residents.
The study conducted among residents from the area found, among other things, a need for additional
parking and patios landscaping to increase the potential of leisure. As a result, it proposed rearranging
adjacent spaces between the blocks for parking spaces redistribution. Diversification of the types of
plantations is done using native species, and the addition of semi-enclosed building, multi-type pavilion
leading the more attractive courtyards.
The rehabilitation solution takes into account the plan rehabilitation the existing building and the
orientation towards the cardinal points. There are two types of the existing configurations, each having an
opposite orientation. Thus, constructions with smaller constructed area will receive more than just an attic
level and those with bigger surface will develop attics on two levels. Attics will contain only function of
dwelling, including approximately 100 sqm apartments. The terraces and photovoltaic panels on the
facades, gardens and vertical location are distributed depending on the orientation of the cardinal points.
Attic access shall be made on a mane ladder and an elevator located in an adjacent building which
includes also community facilities and utilities. The exterior walls are made from light elements,
sandwich type and will be partly covered with photovoltaic panels or vertical gardens. Opened balconies
which ensure ventilation and lighting are provided with Sunscreen protection systems. [3]

The structure will be independent of the existing construction: metal pillars and lamellar wood beams.
The solution is chosen for aesthetic reasons and environmental concerns. The beams will remain visible
in the living space for an impression of increasing the interior space. Intermediate floor attic ties hang on
main beams and are also clad on wooden structure using recycling materials. The interior walls are made
of prefabricated panels from recycled wood also. They will contain storage spaces of various sizes. The
facades with opaque or transparent panels, are ventilated "double skin" type. The solutions proposed for
rehabilitation of the envelope are considering the following objectives:
 reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions;
 provision of thermal comfort conditions, hygiene, sound and vision;
 protect natural environment and biodiversity.
As finishing for facades are proposed wooden tiles with special waterproof finishing, sheet metal
panels, ceramic tiles. The windows will be PVC or metal.
Mihaela Stela Georgescu; Cristina Victoria Ochinciuc; Carmen Dumitrescu; Codruta Iana; Cerasella Craciun; Ana Opris

Fig. 4, Typical sections from the rehabilitation solution. The structure will be independent of the existing construction: metal pillars
and lamellar wood beams
The complex, multicriteral renovation of housing districts. Integrated concept of projects for houses and city. Results of “sir
research project” in Romania

Fig. 5, Plan detail with hexagonal modules solutions of the new insertion
Rehabilitation of thermal energy in buildings aims to reduce energy consumption for exploitation,
which can be
achieved through
two categories of
measures:
Mihaela Stela Georgescu; Cristina Victoria Ochinciuc; Carmen Dumitrescu; Codruta Iana; Cerasella Craciun; Ana Opris
I. Measures to reduce energy consumption for heating / cooling system which relies on
additional insulation of opaque elements of the envelope and optimization of
glass elements;
II. Measures through which the exploitation of solar energy through converting thermal
energy into visible radiation (greenhouse effect) or electricity (photovoltaic effect).
Implementation of these measures in the sustainable construction solutions suitable for each
individually situation, involve the use of advanced materials with certain characteristics, consistent with
objective pursued. For this reason, before presenting constructive solutions it was made a synthesis of
materials used in rehabilitation works, starting with high efficiency insulating materials and continuing
with transparent materials with dynamic features and smart materials.
Details of the rehabilitation of thermo energetic performance have been compiled for different
versions: the outside heat, heat through the interior, additional insulation and turning in the front
ventilated façade. Terraces have extra insulation in the compact structure, terrace garden, attic.
Corrections to the proposed model shall be made based on feed-back results from consultation with the
beneficiary.

Fig. 6, Image of the final image of the project

3. Conclusions

The proposed solutions for this case study can become an example of integrated rehabilitation,
designed to open new perspectives of study but and concrete rehabilitation, to which actively participate
not only scientists and engineers, but and policy makers and residents, the beneficiaries themselves.
The complex, multicriteral renovation of housing districts. Integrated concept of projects for houses and city. Results of “sir
research project” in Romania
The research project highlighted the benefits of interdisciplinary work and the general structure of the
research was balanced through contribution for each team from partnership. Interesting to notice the
development of a computer program for analysis and dissemination through organizing a national
symposium. Collaboration between the partners will continue to choose and defining the best details,
materials, equipment and technologies integrated in the new and effective solutions. Besides the study
and design of solutions will give a great importance of the strategy - in the involvement of all
stakeholders and the communication - through an efficient communication with customers, builders,
makers of the administration, direct beneficiaries and the general public.
We believe that the study allowed us to check options and continue to perfect interdisciplinary
teamwork. Cut overall research plan, though modified over time, keep up the strategy and initial results
are interesting and in the materialized in this phase. In this way the research is addressed to investors and
project managers, designers and users who provide a way to measure energy efficiency not only of
operating the of building, but measuring its sustainability.
It is important to note that, although always relate to European legislation and starts from the
systems analysis and evaluation criteria been finalized by other organizations, SIR project aims to adapt
the concept of rehabilitation to the conditions and the local legal system, and not another theory of
rehabilitation becoming difficult to implement in the real conditions. SIR also aims to integrate concepts
of rehabilitation in the all areas of knowledge, from the technical innovations and materials to the
concepts of visual and psychological comfort. The next step is to complete the project proposed of SIR
and the update and comply with the feed-back from local authorities and inhabitants

4. Acknowledgements

The paper presents some results of the research project, SIR: "Integrated solutions for the rehabilitation of
the complexes, buildings and units", carried-out during 2008-2011, in the framework of an
interdisciplinary Romanian National R-D Plan – PNII, Programme 4. Contract UAUIM no.21/2008
(Contract PNCDI nr. 22120)
The coordinator was UAUIM – University of Architecture and Urbanism “Ion Mincu” Bucharest, having
as partners Technical Universities of Cluj – Napoca and Iasi, research institutes ICPE and IPCT-
Installations

References

[1] DUMITRESCU C., GEORGESCU M., TARBUJARU D, IANA C., CRACIUN C., MINDU G.,
BRATU C., MOGA I., BIRO A.M., BLIUC. I., SERBANESCU I., “Complex Rehabilitation of sets of
buildings housing: context, criteria and directions”, Analele arhitecturii, No. 3/2009, pp.16.
[2] GEORGESCU M., OCHINCIUC C., TARBUJARU D., DUMITRESCU C., MINDU G., IANA C.,
“Sustainable development of the City and Housing: examples of strategies, solutions and integrated
project”, 3-th National Conference AAEC: “Energy efficiency of buildings”, Proceedings, pp. 7-8,
October 2009 (in Romanian).
[3] DUMITRESCU C., “Symposium SIR: Complex Rehabilitations”.
[4]''White Carta'' – Europe and Tomorrow's Architecture, Planning Proposals for the built from Europe,
Architects Council from Europe, Brussels, 1995.
[5] European Conference of Ministers responsible for Spatial Planning (CEMAT) – “Guiding Principles
for Sustainable Spatial Development of the European Continent”, Hanover, 7 to 8 September 2000.