Bologna’s HERIT4AGES Lab: Co-Creating Energy-Efficient Solutions

On 22 May 2025, the HERIT4AGES project hosted an interactive online co-design workshop led by our partner University of Bologna – Alma Mater Studiorum. The event brought together 21 researchers, stakeholders, and technical experts to collaboratively shape innovative retrofitting solutions for the historic engineering building at UNIBO — one of the project’s Living Labs.

The workshop showcased the integration of digital twin technology, environmental monitoring systems, and clay-based insulation panels produced from local and recycled materials. These panels, developed by the University of Bologna in collaboration with project partner Fundación CETIM, are designed to enhance energy efficiency while respecting heritage constraints and minimising environmental impact.

Fundación CETIM was represented by Stephany Arrejuría, Researcher in Sustainable Construction Materials, who presented recent advances in the development of sustainable, demountable construction solutions for heritage buildings. Her contribution highlighted the project’s circular approach, using local waste materials such as hemp hurds, reeds, and expanded clay to produce high-performance, low-carbon insulation.

The session concluded with an interactive survey and open discussion, allowing participants to provide input on materials, installation methods, and functional features. This feedback will directly inform the refinement of prototypes and their implementation in the Bologna Living Lab.

HERIT4AGES demonstrates how technological innovation, stakeholder engagement, and heritage preservation can work together to create energy-efficient, climate-resilient solutions for historic buildings across Europe.