Integrating Energy Efficiency and Lifelong Living - Lessons from Practice

Abstract

Currently lifelong living and energy efficiency in housing are, two separately studied fields. If integrated they could result in more appealing, affordable and sustainable housing concepts. Theoretical investigations show how lifelong living and energy efficiency are integrated in practice. Ten case study passive single-family homes were examined in order to outline the adopted measures and the motivations behind. Mixed methods were used for analysis including semi-structured interviews with homeowners, a questionnaire, architectural drawings and video recording of a home walk-through. In ten cases, both energy efficiency and lifelong living measures and the design approach varied. People focused on the practical long term effect of their choices on their families. Results show that for home owners it is easier to get information on energy efficiency than lifelong living. Meanwhile building professionals present resistance rather than facilitation towards residents’ sustainability goals. Better, user-centered, communication and awareness is needed between professionals and homeowners.