The guidelines define pros and cons of natural ventilation (NV) techniques in buildings versus mechanical ones. The report lays out the principles, existing standards and guidelines, and perspectives focusing on both energy consumption and indoor well-being. Different techniques of NV are explored and grouped according to the driving forces they exploit. Examples of real buildings using the techniques are also included. Also included are the main purposes NV can be used for and some guidelines to be consulted for developing NV.

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Integration of energy and technical building systems within prefabricated timber façade panels for existing building renovation. The solution includes the integration of passages for pipes and electrical systems, Building Applied Photovoltaics (BAPV), Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), and decentralised mechanical ventilation units positioned close to windows. 

The integrated timber prefab panels are designed to simplify and accelerate renovation processes by combining multiple technical systems within a single façade solution. The approach supports more efficient installation processes and reduces the amount of onsite work required during renovation activities.

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BIM and Digital Twins are used to optimise building performance from environmental and economic perspectives. The approach enables a comprehensive evaluation across the building lifecycle, including environmental impact, costs, and energy use, as well as aspects such as community inclusivity, use of indoor and outdoor spaces, water management, noise and pollution, and architectural quality.

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Raising climate awareness among citizens requires a multi-faceted approach, with educational facilities playing a key role in sustainability education. At Oslo’s Voldsløkka school, Living Lab engagement activities target secondary school and cultural school pupils, their parents, and the wider neighbourhood community. The activities focus on the energy transition and circularity, including energy technologies and building materials. Engagement with pupils and the local community aims to increase awareness of sustainable behaviour, with particular emphasis on energy-efficient solutions.ns.

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The study, design, and testing of a system to retrofit and thermally activate an existing tunnel (in operation or abandoned) for an energy purpose not envisaged originally. The system includes a network of pipes capable of transporting a heat transfer fluid. A prototype of such a system is being investigated by means of preliminary numerical analyses with the final aim to install it in the Piedicastello tunnels within the Trento demo. The tunnels, today abandoned and devoted to an exhibition hall, will be turned into a heat exchanger with the ground and with the internal environment for road de-icing and/or heating and cooling purposes of an adjacent building to test the potential of the identified solution in a realistic operating environment.

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Analysis and catalogue of EU-funded projects related to Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) using dry and off-site techniques for building energy renovation. The standardized catalogue of modular solutions—covering materials, systems, and integration methods— aims to shift from traditional on-site processes to off-site, thereby reducing costs and time while enhancing quality. Despite each project’s unique features, common challenges are identified, and a clear trend emerges toward multifunctional modular façades that are customizable in appearance and capable of integrating renewable energy systems like Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) and Mechanical Ventilation Systems (MVC).

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Circular design strategies for renovation and new construction, as demonstrated in the Oslo demo project, focus on preserving and reusing existing structures and materials to minimise waste and retain historical value. This includes maintaining architectural elements such as façades, cornices, columns, and radiators, while re-establishing lost features using historical documentation. Energy efficiency upgrades are implemented in a non-invasive manner, such as internal insulation to preserve external aesthetics, and selective replacement of degraded components with durable, low-impact materials. New structural additions are designed for disassembly and adaptability, ensuring future reuse or modification. Discovered heritage artifacts, like mason-signed stones and original emblems, are integrated into the design to enrich cultural storytelling. Overall, these strategies blend traditional design with modern performance, enabling buildings that are environmentally responsible, adaptable, and deeply rooted in their historical and cultural context.

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Development and demonstration of timber and bio-based modular renovation and construction solutions designed to minimise disruption during building operation. The approach combines prefabricated plug-and-play components, sustainable materials, and integrated monitoring systems to support low-carbon and circular renovation practices.

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