MustBe0 - Résidence Philippe le Hardi

The interior has been optimally designed. While a real loggia with the façade could have been considered, it would create thermal bridges that need to be addressed.

We need to evaluate the systems implemented over the long term. Placing them in the technical rooms was crucial, and seeing how they are installed, a suitable outdoor space is necessary. It's great that nothing is visible on the façade.

The choice of materials, specifically the aluminum cladding, was complicated to install. Even with a manufacturer who had real expertise, it was still challenging. The façade builder will take care of their work, but the surrounding area must be protected, as others on the site can damage it. However, the dry process is interesting, and aluminum cladding works very well with brick. It has a historic aspect, and the combination of modern and ancient is very interesting. All the brick joints were made on site.

We are still working with building supports that don't have any 90-degree angles, so mechanical systems are very useful in rehabilitation projects because they adapt to the building in a custom way.

Given this is a retrofit project, the use of red aluminium cladding integrates aesthetically well with brick, which is the predominant construction material used in the area.

Regarding isolation, in the north of France, people usually don't open their windows due to the humid climate. They only open them at night when it's hottest. However, the building owner encourages residents to open their windows for 15 minutes a day because it's not a common habit. Homes often suffer from poor ventilation, which can lead to humidity and a lack of fresh air.

Start very early given that certification process can take time, and look at every product already certified: this will smoothen the process a lot.

The AB’s (Les architectes des bâtiments de France) approval is needed for the prior declaration. Try to consult them beforehand to facilitate dialogue. Ideally, there should be an initial discussion with the ABF during the APS phase.

Informing the residents with informative materials (booklet, videos, reminder sheet) and with regular campaigns is essential to make them aware of the correct usage of a Plus Energy Building.

Due to the small size of the dwellings and the need for space for technical rooms (heating and domestic hot water), a significant effort was made to add space that blends well architecturally at the rear of the residential building.

The original flats had no entrance hall, and consisted in a closed kitchen, and a living room accessed through the kitchen door. A corridor led to the bathrooms, with two other doors leading to the bedrooms. There were too many doors for such a small space.

So, we redesigned the kitchen to connect it to the living space and gained more space with the added façade. In the bathroom, we aimed to have an independent toilet and integrated a space for the washing machine, which was often in the kitchen. We also installed a shower to save space.

An engineering consultant was hired to ensure the calculations of E=0 over 25 years. The consultant was also in charge of monitoring the site so that calculations match real life conditions.

The systems in place are costly today. Initially, more interior fittings are needed, but they are not always necessary. In other buildings, a logical layout can optimize costs.

All materials have increased in price: quarry stone has increased the least in price, so it might be worth considering. However, stone is heavy and requires a suitable structure. Aluminum is also costly but remains an interesting option. Plastering is a good solution, especially with the choice of tint.

The Energiesprong program is beneficial, and we continue to use it. However, complications arise when buildings are not rectangular or L-shaped. It's important to consider the type of housing and maintain simple forms as much as possible. Although expensive to set up, the system can be repeated on optimal models that are economically sound.

In some regions, the cost of renovation is less attractive than it was 10 years ago, so careful choices must be made. Renovation should be well-planned with quality materials to ensure longevity, but speed is also an advantage.