What does the term “building retrofitting” refer to?

Building retrofitting refers to the process of making upgrades to existing structures to enhance their energy efficiency, performance, and overall functionality. This can involve a wide range of improvements, such as updating insulation, installing energy-efficient windows, implementing modern HVAC systems, or adopting sustainable technologies. The goal of retrofitting is to reduce energy consumption, lower operating costs, and improve the environmental impact of the building without the need for demolishing or entirely replacing the existing structure.

In contrast, creating new building designs from scratch involves initial construction rather than modification of existing buildings, while constructing additional floors pertains to vertical expansion rather than efficiency upgrades. Replacing entire building structures is a more drastic approach, focusing on building new facilities rather than enhancing the performance of what already exists. Thus, the focus of retrofitting on improving and optimizing existing buildings makes it a key strategy in modern building management and operations.