The construction and real estate industry is facing major challenges: Resource scarcity, climate change and rising costs call for innovative approaches. In this context, existing buildings have taken on a new significance. “Refurbished existing buildings are the new new buildings” – this statement sums up the trend of rethinking the old. However, this does not mean that new construction is becoming superfluous. Rather, both approaches are faced with the task of designing sustainable construction.
Sustainability as a central goal
A major advantage of refurbishment is that it saves resources. Instead of producing new building materials, it uses existing structures and materials. This significantly reduces CO₂ emissions, as the energy-intensive production of concrete, steel or bricks is no longer necessary. At the same time, less construction waste is produced – a crucial point in the circular economy.
But new buildings can also be sustainable. With innovative construction methods such as timber or hybrid construction, energy-efficient concepts and clever planning solutions, many new construction projects are now focusing on a CO₂-neutral or even climate-positive future. The difference: refurbishments exploit potential that already exists, while new buildings create this potential from scratch.
Refurbishment: Preserve and modernize
Refurbished buildings combine the best of the past and the future. Historic façades and details such as stucco, brick or wood lend character and charm, while modern technology – from energy-efficient heating systems to smart building technology – ensures comfort and efficiency. In addition, adapting old buildings can be a sustainable solution to the housing shortage, as existing stock can be used more quickly than a new build from scratch.
However, refurbishment is not always easier or cheaper. Particularly in the case of listed buildings or properties in need of major refurbishment, the effort and costs involved in modernization are high. Creativity is required here to combine modern requirements with the special features of the old building.
New construction: essential for the future
Despite the advantages of refurbished existing buildings, new construction remains indispensable. There are scenarios in which refurbishment is simply not possible or sensible – for example, in the case of severely damaged buildings or in locations where new usage requirements need to be met. New buildings also offer the opportunity to implement innovative architecture and urban concepts that old buildings cannot always achieve.
With modern materials, passive energy concepts and smart design, many new buildings are setting standards in terms of sustainability. Especially in growing cities, where new living space is urgently needed, new construction remains a key strategy.
Synergy instead of opposites
Refurbishment and new construction should not be seen as opposites, but as two sides of the same coin. Both approaches have their justification – and their strengths. While existing buildings have the potential to enrich our cities through preservation and revitalization, new buildings can meet the requirements of a dynamic society and realize architectural visions.
Conclusion: A balanced future
The future of building culture lies in balance. The refurbished existing buildings show us how we can combine sustainability, resource conservation and history. The new building, on the other hand, proves that progress and innovation remain central building blocks of modern architecture.
If we cleverly combine the two, we can create a construction method that is ecologically, economically and socially sustainable – and honors both the past and the future of our cities.