Evaluating Resilience and Thermal Comfort in Mediterranean Dwellings: A Level(s) Framework Approach

Abstract

The construction sector plays a pivotal role in urban development, providing a critical opportunity to foster a cultural shift towards the regeneration of housing stock. This shift focuses on sustainable and resilient urban interventions to extend the lifespan of buildings, starting from the design phase. In this context, the European Union’s Level(s) framework, which establishes sustainability indicators, is particularly relevant to this research, as it promotes circular economy principles and building resilience. The framework provides a comprehensive set of indicators that guide resilient housing rehabilitation methodologies. Indicator 2.3 supports the design and renovation of obsolete housing, emphasizing the maximization of resilience against climatic, functional, and socio-economic impacts. Meanwhile, Indicator 4.2 evaluates the thermal comfort of building occupants concerning indoor conditions throughout the year. The primary aim of this study is to develop a resilient housing rehabilitation methodology based on Level(s), which includes (i) assessing the current resilience of a pilot case, (ii) designing new resilient housing configurations, (iii) evaluating thermal comfort duration for older adults, and (iv) analyzing cost amortization. The research findings indicate that the proposed rehabilitation approach significantly improves occupants’ resilience to climate-related stressors and thermal comfort, particularly vulnerable populations such as older adults. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of adapting thermal comfort standards for these populations and demonstrates the cost-effectiveness of resilience strategies. The outcomes contribute to a flexible and accessible refurbishment model that meets diverse tenant needs, offering a scalable solution for sustainable urban interventions.