Renovating old buildings in European cities is becoming increasingly important for preserving the cultural heritage and promoting sustainable development. Modernising these structures with contemporary materials, such as aluminium façades and large glazed surfaces, addresses the growing demand for functionality, aesthetics and energy efficiency.
Why is it so important to renovate old buildings?
Renovating existing buildings is key to preserving cultural heritage of European cities, especially since many of those structures hold historic, architectural and cultural value for local communities. Protecting these buildings is not only about aesthetics, but also about maintaining the identity of the place. In many cities in the UK and Ireland, old buildings are a testimony to the history and urban evolution.
Beyond the historic aspects, the renovation and modernisation of old buildings also align with modern environmental trends, an alternative to demolition. Revitalising existing structures reduces construction waste and allows for the re-use of some materials, supporting the concept of sustainable development, leading to an improved quality of life. Modernising buildings also improves their energy efficiency, resulting in lower energy consumption and lower maintenance costs.
Is renovating old buildings in the United Kingdom a growing trend?
In recent years, building renovationhas gained popularity in the United Kingdom. Statistical data show that from 2018 to 2023, the number of renovation projects increased by approximately 15%. In the largest cities, where there is significant pressure to increase the supply of flats and commercial spaces, the modernization of existing structures has become increasingly common.
This trend is driven by several factors. Firstly, local authorities and developers are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of renovation. Secondly, the rising costs of new developments and the challenges in obtaining construction permits make modernisation of existing buildings a more profitable solution.
Statistical data also indicate that this trend will continue. The focus on sustainable development is stronger, stimulating investments in renovation. Furthermore, government and European Union programs provide financial support for projects aimed at improving the energy efficiency of buildings, encouraging owners to invest in modernisation measures.
Modern technologies give new life to buildings
Renovating buildings is not just about restoring their original beauty; it is also about upgrading them to modern technical and functional standards. In this context, modern energy-saving technologies and materials, such as aluminium façades, and windows and doors play a crucial role.
Products offered by Aluprof and other manufacturers are a ideal solution for modernised buildings. Aluminium is known for its high durability and resistance to corrosion, ensuring that the façade will remain long-lasting. Moreover, it is lightweight nature, facilitates easier assembly and reduces the load on the building’s structure. When combined with advanced technologies, aluminium windows, doors and façades may significantly improve the thermal insulation properties of the building, ensuring lower energy consumption and lower costs of heating and air conditioning.
The solutions offered by Aluprof are well suited for renovation investments, as well. The range of products meets the highest standards of sustainable construction. These include, among other solutions, MB-MT50N curtain walling system, designed in accordance with the Cradle to Cradle certification and intended for building light facades, skylights and largesurface glazed fronts.
Among the aluminium windows, MB-SLIMLINE with thermal separator are noteworthy, as they feature not only a high thermal insulation coefficient, but also excellent acoustic isolation. This is a system of narrow-profile windows that is aesthetically well suited to heritage buildings.
Other interesting solutions include MB-SR50N ZS façades with built-in screen-type sun covers, which ensure the ability to swiftly darken the big glass surfaces, or SkyTwin protection from the sun, combining external shades with screens.
‘Aesthetics is an important aspect of the modernisation of old buildings’, says Wojciech Brożyna, UK managing director of Aluprof. ‘Aluminium façades and glazed surfaces make it possible to create modern, visually attractive fronts that align with contemporary architectural trends’, he adds. Thus, renovation of old buildings does not mean giving up on a modern outlook. On the contrary, it can provide an opportunity for a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
Control the climate, control the costs
Renovating old buildings with modern technologies is a trend for the future, allowing for the preservation of cultural heritage, improving energy efficiency and aesthetics of the buildings. This approach, adapts old structures to contemporary standards, benefiting owners, users, and the environment.
Aluprof is dedicated to protecting cultural heritage and climate by creating environmentally friendly, energy-efficient doors, windows and façades from recycled low-carbon aluminium. In doing so, it aims to build a better future by leaving a cleaner environment and restoring architectural gems.
Aluprof’s new campaign ‘Control the climate, control the costs’ is designed to promote energy-saving aluminium solutions. The campaign is endorsed by the internationally acclaimed football referee Szymon Marciniak and highlights the advantages of modern aluminium systems which reduce both maintenance costs and CO2 emissions.
Article sponsored by Aluprof
