Video: Restoring historic buildings and saving energy

A brand new window with thin-layer glazing combines energy efficiency with the aesthetics of a baroque window.

Restoring historic buildings and saving energy at the same time is now a reality. Passive house window expert Franz Freundorfer developed the heat-saver for the Waaghaus in Bolzano, a building from the 13th century. Combining new technology and old traditions the scientists want to bridge the gap between the conservation of historic buildings and improving energy efficiency.

Also, the Palazzina della Viola, built in Bologna in 1497, was given a make-over. Preserving delicate original material had limited the energy savings, but even though the heating and cooling loads were reduced by 12% and 30% respectively. The indoor climate conditions were improved for achieving comfort and artwork-preserving conditions. Today,the building is the headquarters of the University´s Department of International Exchange, serving seven thousand students every year.

Passive house window expert Franz Freundorfer developed the heat-saver together with researchers and experts of the 3encult project for the Waaghaus in Bolzano, a building from the 13th century.