Search Results (96)

The green renovation of existing residential buildings is a key way for the construction industry to achieve sustainable development and the dual carbon goals of China, which makes it urgent to make collaborative decisions among multiple stakeholders. However, because of divergent interests and risk perceptions among governments, energy service companies (ESCOs), and owners, the implementation of green renovation is hindered by numerous obstacles. In this study, we integrated prospect theory and evolutionary game theory by incorporating core prospect-theory parameters such as loss aversion and perceived value sensitivity, and developed a psychologically informed tripartite evolutionary game model. The objective was to provide a theoretical foundation and analytical framework for collaborative governance among stakeholders. Numerical simulations were conducted to validate the model’s effectiveness and explore how government regulation intensity, subsidy policies, market competition, and individual psychological factors influence the system’s evolutionary dynamics. The findings indicate that (1) government regulation and subsidy policies play central guiding roles in the early stages of green renovation, but the effectiveness has clear limitations; (2) ESCOs are most sensitive to policy incentives and market competition, and moderately increasing their risk costs can effectively deter opportunistic behavior associated with low-quality renovation; (3) owners’ willingness to participate is primarily influenced by expected returns and perceived renovation risks, while economic incentives alone have limited impact; and (4) the evolutionary outcomes are highly sensitive to parameters from prospect theory, The system’s evolutionary outcomes are highly sensitive to prospect theory parameters. High levels of loss aversion (λ) and loss sensitivity (β) tend to drive the system into a suboptimal equilibrium characterized by insufficient demand, while high gain sensitivity (α) serves as a key driving force for the system’s evolution toward the ideal equilibrium. This study offers theoretical support for optimizing green renovation policies for existing residential buildings in China and provides practical recommendations for improving market competition mechanisms, thereby promoting the healthy development of the green renovation market. Full article

Industrial building renovation is a sustainable strategy to preserve urban heritage while meeting modern needs. However, how interior material scenes affect users’ emotions, thermal perception, and functional preferences remains underexplored in adaptive reuse contexts. This study used virtual reality (VR) to examine four common material scenes—wood, concrete, red brick, and white-painted surfaces—within industrial renovation settings. A total of 159 participants experienced four Lumion-rendered VR environments and rated them on thermal perception (visual warmth, thermal sensation, comfort), emotional response (arousal, pleasure, restoration), and functional preference. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and Pearson correlation. Wood and red brick scenes were associated with warm visuals; wood scenes received the highest ratings for thermal comfort and pleasure, white-painted scenes for restoration and arousal, and concrete scenes, the lowest scores overall. Functional preferences varied by space: white-painted and concrete scenes were most preferred in study/work settings, wood in social spaces, wood and red brick in rest areas, and concrete in exhibition spaces. By isolating material variables in VR, this study offers a novel empirical approach and practical guidance for material selection in adaptive reuse to enhance user comfort, emotional well-being, and spatial functionality in industrial heritage renovations. Full article

The architectural legacy of the French colonial period forms a key part of Vietnam’s urban identity, especially in Hue. Yet, this heritage is rapidly declining: from over 240 structures in 2000, fewer than 100 remain today. This study introduces a heritage-based evaluation framework to assess and preserve French colonial buildings using Le Loi Street, Hue’s historic “Western quarter” as a pilot site. Fourteen colonial-era buildings were systematically assessed through field surveys and expert consultation. A total of 40 specialists participated in the criteria development process, and eight selected experts conducted detailed building evaluations. The final framework includes three main categories and nine specific criteria, based on a 100-point scale, incorporating architectural integrity, historical and cultural significance, contextual fit, and adaptive reuse potential. The results show that all the surveyed buildings qualify as Group A or B, warranting strict conservation or minimal renovation. The study emphasizes the value of localized, expert-informed approaches to heritage planning. The research provides a practical foundation for integrating historic architecture into context-sensitive urban conservation strategies in Hue and comparable Southeast Asian contexts. Full article

Recent advancements in artificial intelligence, particularly in generative technologies, have significantly redefined the design paradigm for community public cultural spaces, shifting from a traditionally designer-centric model to one that emphasizes multi-stakeholder co-creation. This paper focuses on the design of public cultural spaces at the community scale, proposing a generative dynamic workflow-based co-creation framework that integrates large language models (LLMs) with text-to-image technologies. The framework includes a natural dialogue-based needs-capturing module, a needs analysis module, and a needs expression text-to-image module. This study validates the proposed framework by developing a system prototype for renovating a public space in a student dormitory at Tongji University’s Jiading campus. The results show that the prototype demonstrates good usability and a relatively satisfactory capability in capturing user requirements. These findings indicate that this research helps address key limitations in traditional community design practices, such as limited resident participation, inefficient integration of diverse needs, and slow iteration processes. Full article

Although previous quantitative studies have examined various elements involved in the adoption of residential photovoltaic systems, there has been weaker emphasis on qualitative research despite its ability to understand the complexities behind adoption decisions. This article analyzes data from in-depth interviews with adopters and identifies emerging themes about the factors leading householders to adopt residential photovoltaic systems. Thematic analysis identified five key themes related to the economic, environmental, social and technological motives and barriers to adopting residential photovoltaics. Adopters’ main motive was to acquire an additional regular income, which, inter alia, would enable them to cover anticipated expenses such as costs linked to having children at university. Many adopters also combined the adoption with life events such as house renovations. The adoption of photovoltaics was also seen as providing a safe way to invest savings. Moreover, most adopters identified themselves as technology enthusiasts indicating the positive effect of technophilia on residential photovoltaic adoption. Despite having installed photovoltaics, participants recognized that adoption can be inhibited by high capital cost, investment taxation and limited grid capacity. The similarities and variety in the decision-making patterns identified in this study can be used to develop or improve strategies aiming at increasing residential photovoltaic adoption. Full article

The brown kiwi (Apteryx mantelli) is a flightless, nocturnal bird native to New Zealand and is classified as “At Risk” due to predation from domestic dogs and ferrets. In the U.S., brown kiwi have been managed under the AZA Animal Population Management and Studbook Program since 2006, with the Smithsonian National Zoological Park (NZP) and Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) maintaining the species since 1968. However, because they are nocturnal, kiwi are not good exhibit animals and often are difficult for zoo visitors to observe during the day. To address this, the NZP launched a “Meet-A-Kiwi” ambassador program in 1989 to engage the public and raise awareness. The program ran successfully for 28 years until 2017, when renovations closed the Bird House at the zoo in Washington, DC, and the birds were moved to the Front Royal, VA campus. Over time, concerns about the suitability of kiwi as ambassador birds arose as they are nocturnal and do not imprint on people. This study assessed the effects of outreach events, housing, and relocation on adrenal activity in five kiwi (four males, one female) by measuring fecal glucocorticoid metabolite (fGCM) concentrations, a physiological stress indicator, from March to October 2016. Two males participated in outreach (ambassadors), while two males and one female did not (controls). The results showed no significant differences in fGCM concentrations between ambassador and control birds, suggesting that outreach did not cause undue stress. However, individual factors (age, sex, hatching type, and display status) were associated with differences in fGCM concentrations, highlighting the need for personalized management. Further longitudinal studies are needed to explore the physiological responses of kiwi to captive conditions. Full article

The “Rural Toilet Revolution” is a pivotal initiative aimed at improving living conditions and health standards in rural China. Utilizing data from 683 questionnaire responses from rural residents across China, this study constructs a multi-stakeholder collaborative governance system and delves into the current state of rural toilets, assesses the average willingness of rural residents to invest in toilet upgrades, and identifies key factors influencing their financial commitment to such renovations. The findings reveal that the average willingness to pay for the modernization of sanitation facilities is CNY 791 (approx. USD 110), constituting approximately 26.37% of the actual renovation costs, and the ratio of government and residents’ contributions can be determined as 3:1. Moreover, a positive correlation was observed between the frequency of toilet cleaning and the propensity to invest in upgrades, highlighting a heightened awareness of hygiene risks among those prioritizing sanitation. Conversely, satisfaction with existing toilets inversely affected the willingness to pay for improvements, indicating that contentment with current toilets diminishes the likelihood of participation in renovation initiatives. Additionally, previous engagement in toilet renovation programs emerged as a significant predictor of continued willingness to contribute financially to the “Toilet Revolution”, underscoring the positive impact of prior renovation experiences. Full article

In recent years, rural return has emerged as a significant trend in China, largely driven by central and local government policies promoting rural revitalization and urban-to-rural migration. This study aims to explore the impact of rural return on the evolution of rural spaces at the village level in China, with a particular focus on how urban-to-rural migration reshapes village spatial structures. This study examines the spatial implications of this phenomenon through case studies of three traditional villages in Zhejiang Province, utilizing qualitative fieldwork, spatial mapping, and in-depth interviews. By analyzing migration patterns, residential choices, and subsequent spatial transformations, this research elucidates how urban-to-rural migrants reshape spatial structures at the village level and integrate into local communities. The research findings reveal that the proportion of the migrant population is less than 30%, yet this relatively small proportion has brought significant changes to the village, manifested in the substantial increase in third spaces within the village. The study also identifies ten distinct migration types within the sample, with short-term residency comprising the majority, and migrants’ relocation needs play a crucial role in determining spatial adaptations. The predominant strategy for village integration involves the functional transformation of traditional dwellings into mixed-use commercial and residential spaces, as well as the renovation of existing structures to accommodate new social and economic activities. Additionally, the study underscores the active participation of migrants in public life and communal spaces as a key driver of spatial regeneration. This research contributes to the understanding of rural transformation in contemporary China by demonstrating that urban-to-rural migration not only reshapes village spatial configurations but also catalyzes social and functional revitalization. These insights provide a nuanced perspective on the evolving dynamics of rural settlements and inform future rural development strategies. Full article

In the European Green Deal and Renovation Wave framework, cities should be more self-sufficient and sustainable, promoting investment in the regeneration and maintenance of the built and natural heritage. The New European Bauhaus reinforces this vision, promoting the value of beauty as a product of environmental harmony/sustainability and participation. Many cities are already working to improve infrastructure and public services, with the aim of creating better socio-economic and environmental conditions in urbanised areas. At the same time, they aim to increase and relocate attractiveness and competitiveness to less densified rural areas, and to reduce overcrowding problems in cities. The aim is to propose a virtuous model of circular regeneration, by identifying virtuous strategies of the regeneration of rural villages capable of aligning the transformation of the built environment with climate objectives, social cohesion and local economy strengthening, and the integration of historical and identity values. Rural villages in marginal areas are left behind places. They require new economic development strategies, grounded in a circular bio-economy model for reducing/avoiding spiraled down processes. The application of European evaluation criteria to the main topic literature background allowed for the construction of a virtuous practices observatory about regenerated rural villages, which is elaborated using registry, systemic, and analytical/analysis forms. From the ex-post evaluation analysis of the case studies, it was possible to identify a number of dimensions/clusters in which investment is being made today for the regeneration of rural villages. By reasoning on the investment clusters, it was possible to identify a circular regeneration model for rural villages, transferable to other realities in order to implement the broader vision of circular settlement development. The “Rural Village Regeneration Model” represents an operational tool for regional transformation, suitable for reactivating lost connections between rural villages and larger towns in functional areas, characterised by greater self-sufficiency and exploration of the potential of digital tools to improve services, connections, infrastructure, and cooperation. Full article

This study introduces an evolutionary game model to investigate the strategic interaction among government regulatory agencies, shopping center investors, and tenants in the global energy-saving renovation market. The focus is on three innovative aspects. Firstly, the model reveals that positive tenant behavior can stimulate investors’ participation in energy-saving renovation projects by triggering potential market demand, thereby establishing a dynamic balance between supply and demand. This viewpoint has been previously overlooked in energy renovation research. Secondly, the model demonstrates the dynamic transformation of government regulatory strategies. In the early stages of market development, direct intervention through subsidies and penalties is crucial, and investors’ decisions are constrained by both returns and costs. When returns exceed the cost premium, investors actively participate, and policy incentives lower early cost barriers to promote market expansion. As the market matures, a transition toward policy guidance optimizes sustainable outcomes. Thirdly, extensive numerical simulations have confirmed the existence of multiple stable equilibrium states under different incentive and cost conditions, providing new evidence for the stability and adaptability of the energy-saving renovation market. These findings significantly advance the theoretical understanding of multi-stakeholder interactions in green building transformation and provide practical guidance for developing adaptive and effective policy frameworks. Full article

Approximately 3% of home-owners in Flanders (Belgium) are “locked-in”, residing in substandard dwellings with limited financial means for improvement. Under the European Urban Innovative Actions project ICCARus, 84 dwellings of locked-in home-owners in Ghent (Belgium) underwent renovations with an average budget of EUR 29,000. Their impact on housing quality, energy performance, indoor environmental quality (IEQ), and user satisfaction was assessed. The housing quality was evaluated using the Flemish Housing Code, and energy performance was calculated. A monitoring campaign in selected dwellings evaluated the IEQ. Interviews documented home-owners’ satisfaction. The results revealed a significant enhancement in housing quality, with post-renovation compliance reaching 83%. Energy performance notably improved, from a pre-renovation F-label prevalence (31% of the cases) to a post-renovation majority achieving a C-label (55%). The average indoor temperature in all rooms increased after renovation. A moderate correlation between enhancement in the living room and bathroom temperature and budget for energy performance measures was noted. The CO₂ concentration in the majority of the homes remained unchanged. A total of 61% of the participants reported increased satisfaction with their dwelling post-renovation, with more pronounced improvement in winter. This enhanced satisfaction was correlated with improved energy performance. Full article

Energy Efficiency Contracting (EEC) enables structural improvements in buildings by financing upgrades through the savings generated, eliminating the need for upfront investment by property owners. Although the model supports the energy transition and the reduction in GHG emissions, its adoption in the private sector faces relevant barriers such as the lack of information from the Energy Service Companies (ESCOs), distrust from clients in benefits with no upfront costs, and legal and behavioral barriers. To overcome these challenges, the FinSESCo platform, funded by Era-Net 2020 joint call, aims to channel private investments into building renovations and renewable energy installations via a crowdfunding portal. The platform allows individuals and organizations to finance small-scale renewable energy installations and energy efficiency measures for homeowners, tenants, and apartment owners. The new platform is likely to change the way EE investments are made and reach out to new audiences. A survey of 2585 German households sought to understand the drivers of EE investments, factors affecting the decisions, and their relationships with several demographic variables. Using a stepwise backward regression model, the study found significant differences between traditional investors in EE and those who would use the FinSESCo platform. Low- and medium-income households were more likely to take up the platform, and previous renewable energy ownership, experience with EEC models, and knowledge of crowdfunding further raised willingness to participate. The results point to the potential of the FinSESCo platform to expand EEC to new audiences, underlining its role of democratization and diversification of investments in building energy efficiency. Full article

Urban green development is crucial for citizen well-being and serves as a key pillar of sustainable development strategies. Collaborative governance mechanisms help address management, technical, and financial challenges in urban green development. The renovation of old residential communities within the context of urban renewal is becoming a focal point in the development of Chinese cities. To promote green development in the renovation of old residential communities in China, this study introduces the collaborative governance mechanism of government–social capital cooperation and identifies the factors influencing social capital participation in green development. A hybrid approach is proposed, combining grounded theory, IGAHP subjective weighting, CRITIC objective weighting, game theory, and ISM. This approach is applied to identify, evaluate, and analyze the factors driving social capital participation in the green renovation of old residential communities. The results indicate that government incentives and constraints, policy support, the costs and benefits of implementing green renovation, the development of green renovation technologies, and construction technical abilities significantly influence the decision-making of social capital. The findings provide theoretical support for decision-making by governments and social capital in participating in the green renovation of old residential communities and offer a methodological reference for analyzing social capital participation in other urban green development projects and for further policy formulation. Future research should focus on examining social capital involvement in other types of urban green development projects. Full article

With the increasing public awareness and strength of industrial heritage protection, industrial heritage plays an increasingly important role in tourism after transformation and upgrading. The influence of built environment factors and visitors’ participation on satisfaction has been fully confirmed, but the primary and secondary relationships between the two variables remain unclear. The purpose of this study is to explore the relationships between the built environment, tourist participation, and tourism satisfaction, and compare the actual loads of different routes to find the dominant variable. The data of this study came from three industrial heritage renovation projects in Shanghai with remarkable transformation results. Field investigations and questionnaire surveys were conducted on them, and a total of 362 valid samples were received. Descriptive statistical analysis and structural equation models were used to analyze the data. Two paths of “built environment–tourism satisfaction” and “tourist participation–tourism satisfaction” are compared and demonstrated. The path coefficient of the former is 0.63, while that of the latter is 0.77, and the influence of the latter is more significant than that of the former. The study creatively found the audience orientation of both sexes for different types of experience activities, confirmed the mediating effect of subjective perception, and provided the following suggestions for managers of built industrial cultural heritage. Interactive experiences and guided tours deepen visitors’ understanding of the historical and cultural value of industrial heritage. Virtual reality and augmented reality technologies can be introduced to provide an immersive visit experience and attract a wider audience to participate, effectively enhancing the attractiveness of and satisfaction with industrial heritage tourism. Full article

As an important carrier of sports services and the main force participating in the “short board” project of urban development, the renovation and upgrading of old stadiums have become an important trend for the sustainable development of venues in the context of urban renewal, consumption upgrading, and national fitness. However, owing to the complexity of the transformation process, the probability of safety accidents continues to increase, posing a serious threat to national property security. In order to reasonably evaluate the safety of the stadium renovation construction process and reduce the incidence of accidents in the renovation project, this study proposed a safety evaluation model for the stadium renovation construction based on the combination weighting extension model. First, according to the 5M1E theory, 27 influencing factors were selected, a safety evaluation index system for stadium reconstruction construction was constructed, and the safety evaluation grade of the index was quantified. Second, based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and improved entropy weight method, the combination weight of the index was determined, and a safety evaluation model was constructed using the matter–element extension theory. Finally, the established evaluation model was applied to the example of stadium renovation, and the construction safety level of the renovation project was obtained. The research results showed that the model has strong operability, and the evaluation results are reasonable and reliable, providing a new concept for the safety control of stadium reconstruction construction. Full article