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Argument › No. 17/2025

Assessment and Sustainable Retrofitting of Existing Office Buildings. Case Study: BRD Headquarters Tower, Victory Square Bucharest

https://doi.org/10.54508/Argument.17.04

  • / “Ion Mincu” University of Architecture and Urban Planning Bucharest, RO
  • / “Ion Mincu” University of Architecture and Urban Planning Bucharest, RO
  • / Maslaev Consulting SRL, RO
  • / CRIBA PROIECT SRL , RO
  • / ARCMOSC SRL, RO

Abstract

The building envelope plays a critical role in ensuring safety, sustainability, and energy efficiency, especially in aging office buildings subject to evolving regulatory demands and natural degradation. Facade systems such as curtain walls, natural stone cladding, and glazing elements are essential to long-term durability and occupant comfort, yet their performance is highly dependent on execution quality and regular maintenance. This paper presents a comprehensive technical assessment of the BRD headquarters in Victory Square, Bucharest, focusing on the integration of expert evaluations to verify compliance with essential performance standards. The proposed intervention addresses safety risks, improves energy efficiency in line with NZEB (Nearly Zero-Energy Building) targets, enhances thermal and hydro insulation, and incorporates green and volumetric design strategies. The approach highlights the importance of early diagnostics and proactive maintenance in extending facade lifespan, reducing operational costs, and supporting the sustainable transformation of existing urban buildings.

Keywords

envelope retrofitting, proactive maintenance, energy efficiency, existing building environmental mitigation

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