Integrated Energy and Aesthetic Upgrade of the National School of Judicial Officers

The project concerns the energy and aesthetic upgrade of the National School of Judicial Officers and the redesign of the surrounding area of ​​the building. The study was called upon to resolve important issues of energy efficiency, problems of environmental and thermal comfort inside the building, problems of wear and tear and overall aesthetic degradation. In addition, functional issues of the surrounding area and accessibility issues were addressed.

Approach

The study was implemented with the main focus on the energy and environmental response, the conditions of thermal and visual comfort and the improvement of the qualitative characteristics of the indoor climate. The aim was the comprehensive energy upgrade which improves the overall experience of the building users while improving its energy performance.

The geographical location of the building, its direct contact with the sea, the strong presence of the natural element in the surrounding area, the microclimate and the orientation played an important role in the design choices for handling the shell, the interior and the surrounding area. The energy and aesthetic upgrade of the building shell was sought with emphasis on the principles of bioclimatic architecture for the Mediterranean climate.

For the preparation of the study, a methodology was followed which included an assessment of the user experience using questionnaires, on-site measurements, as well as an assessment of the effectiveness of the interventions using special simulation tools. Emphasis was given to the assessment of the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of natural lighting before and after the interventions. In addition, emphasis was placed on upgrading the shell and implementing an external sun protection system, which was deemed necessary for reasons of energy efficiency and improvement of visual and thermal comfort.

The surrounding space is redesigned, upgraded and utilized as a reception, relaxation and meeting space.

Benefits

The energy upgrade of the building acts as a starting point for the redefinition of the shell and the overall image, operation and experience of the building. Accessibility is ensured for all users. At the same time, the redesign of the surrounding space expands the social space, upgrades the user experience and achieves the necessary connection of the interior with the outdoors and the dialogue with the natural elements.