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Multi-Objective Optimization of Façade Retrofit Solutions for Italian Residential precast concrete Buildings

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  • Neri Banti,
  • Cecilia Ciacci,
  • Vincenzo Di Naso,
  • Frida Bazzocchi
Neri Banti
University of Florence
Cecilia Ciacci
University of Florence
Vincenzo Di Naso
University of Florence
Frida Bazzocchi
University of Florence
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36253/tema-16959

Published 2025-12-05

Keywords

  • Residential building stock,
  • precast structure,
  • energy retrofit,
  • optimization,
  • BIM

Abstract

The current European policies aim to obtain a significant reduction in CO2 emissions, targeting a carbon-free economy by 2050, and propose an extensive renovation plan for the residential building heritage. The majority of Italian residential buildings predates energy-saving regulations, and they are nowadays affected by several environmental related issues.  The paper proposes retrofitting measures for the external walls of an existing residential precast building dating back to the 1980s, located in the Province of Florence. Two different technological solutions have been evaluated for façades redevelopment, featuring recladding with a Vêture system and a rainscreen solution. The methodology of the research implements a BIM-based approach: the building was modelled in Revit environment, while optimized façade layouts were generated using an algorithm developed in Grasshopper and considering various design parameters. As for the Vêture solution, the configuration chosen reduces the total number of panels installed, minimizing at same time the use of special components. A similar approach has been adopted in case of the rainscreen solution but recurring to an optimization procedure through genetic algorithms. The solutions of interest have been hence selected in the Pareto front, considering type and number of panels. The retrofit interventions explored improved the building’s energy label from F to E, also enhancing its aesthetic quality.

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