Abstract
Norway currently faces the challenge of outdated and energy-inefficient apartment blocks, with approximately 350,000 units lacking elevators, according to NBBL.To address these issues and create sustainable housing options, the Tresindustrelle concept explores the potential of expanding existing housing associations and condominiums by adding additional housing on top using wood construction. The Vestlia Borettslag transformation project is based on this concept and focuses on renovating this housing association built in 1973, comprising 16 blocks. The project aims to improve the quality and energy performance of the existing buildings while providing additional housing without the need for additional land or excessive carbon emissions from new foundations. Although the initial focus is on a cluster of 5 blocks, the transformation approach can be applied to the entire project. Energy performance is a key consideration in the transformation, with an emphasis on reducing the energy load through a combination of passive and active strategies. The project explores the integration of greenhouses as a passive strategy to enhance energy performance and provide a year-round usable space. Beyond energy efficiency, the transformation also seeks to enhance overall living conditions, address the accessibility issue, and create an attractive and sustainable housing solution.
The thesis encompasses an analysis of the project area, the study of four different design proposals, the development of a final proposal, and the energy and daylight analysis. Through its approach, the Vestlia Borettslag transformation project showcases the potential to improve existing housing stock while addressing energy efficiency and accessibility challenges.
