Mémoire de fin d'études: Potential of Converting Office Buildings into Housing: A case Study of Liège's Built Stock from 1960 to 1980

Abstract

The European Union has set the objective of becoming climate-neutral by 2050. To achieve this goal, it aims to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 (Secrétariat général du Conseil de l’Union européenne, 2021). On average, around 60% of office stock in Belgium is over 15 years old and has not been renovated since construction; this percentage is even close to 80% in Liège (Verelst , 2019). The Liège region features many buildings that are part of the modernist architectural style, characterized by the consistent use of concrete. The result is buildings that resemble residences but have an office function, buildings to which the typical residential model is applied (Donnay, 1978). For these reasons, this research will focus on office buildings constructed between 1960 and 1980 and still exist today. This raises current concerns about the future of these constructions regarding reducing their energy consumption. It becomes logical to establish a culture of renovation that is mindful of the environment and, more generally, of energy savings. Sustainable construction is a current necessity and an engine of economic growth for the entire construction sector. Due to the expected increase in the Belgian population, the City of Liège is estimated to face a housing shortage by 2030 (Roisin, 2024). The "Cité Ardente" intends to establish 15.000 housing units by then (Kinet-Poleur, et al., 2020). Thus, this research aims to understand the potential of converting office buildings from 1960 to 1980 into housing. How can the buildings in question be made comfortable and efficient to meet the needs of tomorrow's homes and lifestyles?