Methods and instruments for prefabricated housing refurbishment: the French case (1960-70)

The 60s and 70s housing blocks consisting of large two-dimensional prefabricated elements represent a sizable share of European building assets: their upgrading as regards architecture, energy efficiency, environment and social services is a priority for European Union aims by 2050. Prefabricated housing blocks total to such large numbers as to require new methodologies and technologies to be developed, in order to make upgrading technically viable and economically sustainable. This study focuses on analysing the front panels of two French patents (i.e. Balency and Camus): developed in the 60s, they were widely resorted to in Europe. The material, geometrical, and construction-related data led to implementing a BIM model that furthered the development of a methodology of digitisation of European prefabricated building stock, with a view to its upgrading, as far as architecture, environment and functions are concerned.