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Facing climate emergency of an unprecedented scale, how can we improve the performance of London’s historic terraced housing using a sustainable and resilient approach without compromising historic fabrics and knowledge? This project addresses the current irreconcilability between environmental design practice and heritage conservation concerns through a series of speculative ‘what if’ scenarios to inspire discussion between all parties with the aim of retrofitting London’s historic terraces. Through a ‘pattern book’ for professionals and a booklet for householders, the project promotes dialogue between everyone involved and affected, thereby finding a new way forward in conservation policymaking and practice.
Akin to a Georgian or Victorian pattern book, this book seeks to present a series of 'what-if' scenarios to inspire discussions between all parties concerned with the retrofitting of London’s historic housing stocks amidst ongoing climate emergency.
The booklet is created for the householders of London’s historic terraces. It provides simple and accessible hand-drawn illustrations that accompany concise, easy-to-understand sentences to achieve greater accessibility for non-professionals.
Speculation on a possible future where Victorian terraces are clothed with various interventions, building on principles of commonality, reversibility and flexibility. They are designed as seasonal installations, although some may become permanent.
A second skin may not only enhance the performance of the existing house but also improve the living experience of the residents as the skin becomes an inhabitable space.