Housing and information society: integration of ICT in the existing housing stock

Abstract

This paper describes an ongoing research concerned with the insertion of technology in domestic spaces, and more specifically in the existing housing stock. The study evolves with the premise that the insertion of technology in domestic spaces can reduce energy consumption and the environmental impact, in general, of the use and functioning of buildings, while contributing for improving the quality of life of its inhabitants. It also considers that the rehabilitation of existing buildings and urban areas is preferable to the construction of new housing, if one is concerned with the environmental impact of construction activity in the city. The study focus on the buildings built in Lisbon during the period 1950-1970 which accounts for a considerable part of the existing housing stock. The goal is to identify the strategies to follow in the refurbishment of these buildings so that they fulfill the requirements of modern life. The strategy should specify the level of technology to incorporate considering the profile of the targeted households.