Energy Consumption for Traditionally Built Dwellings

Introduction

Historic Scotland initiated this study to address gaps in understanding the energy performance of traditionally constructed dwellings, which are integral to Scotland’s architectural heritage. The project, conducted from 2012 to 2016, aimed to provide data that would support effective conservation and retrofit strategies while improving energy efficiency.

Context and Objectives

Energy Consumption and Building Characteristics

The study focused on eight dwellings, including urban tenement flats and rural bungalows, constructed before 1919. These homes represent a variety of traditional construction methods, from solid sandstone walls to red-bricked cavity walls, each with different levels of retrofitted thermal insulation.

Methodology and Data Collection