Functional and Aesthetic Aspects of Modernization of Large Panel Residential Buildings

Abstract

A significant part of the population of Central and Eastern Europe lives in multi-family residential buildings made of large prefabricated concrete slabs. Such buildings are often heavily depleted, as they are 30–50 years old and they do not meet the current utility needs of tenants in functional terms. Such multi-storey buildings dominate urban landscapes and make them look monotonous. Internal infrastructure (e.g. heating or plumbing installations) is outdated, while thermal insulation is insufficient. It is necessary to improve the structural, functional and energetic efficiency of the said buildings through renovation solutions, which would bring economic and social benefits, as well as a reduction in energy consumption. The article presents the aspects of technical, functional and aesthetic modernization of prefabricated panel buildings in order to improve the quality of entire housing estates and individual apartments. The analyses will be carried out in the context of technical and social requirements. The aim of the research is to present various design criteria and examples indicating preferred directions of revitalization and adaptation of housing estates to current needs. Modernization actions will be presented basing on case studies from Germany and Poland.