A pioneering renovation method developed under the Horizon Europe REHOUSE project is showing promising results in tackling the dual challenge of seismic safety and energy efficiency in Europe’s ageing building stock.
Tested in a social housing block in Margherita di Savoia, Italy, the new approach combines structural reinforcement with green technologies — all with minimal disruption to residents. The technique strengthens key exterior joints using carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP), boosting seismic resilience fivefold, while improving insulation and energy performance through bio-based panels and Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) cladding.
Crucially, the entire intervention is carried out externally, reducing the need for tenant relocation — a common barrier to seismic upgrades. The integrated photovoltaic system is expected to cover the electricity needs of the building’s heat pumps, contributing further to energy independence.
As part of the broader REHOUSE initiative, this scalable, sustainable model offers a practical path forward for safer, greener, and more socially inclusive renovations across the EU.
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