Intervention to the building – Exploring the interrelations by systematic literature review

Abstract

Various factors contribute to the obsolescence of a building or its part(s), and these are addressed through interventions resulting in physical alterations. In other words, intervention is a complex process involving the following components: building or its part(s), factors, obsolescence, and intervention approach (i.e. intervention type and criteria). Additionally, there are numerous intervention types, such as adaptation, conservation, maintenance, remodelling, renewal, replacement, restoration, strengthening, etc., whose contexts may sometimes partially overlap. Therefore, this study aimed to gain insight into the boundaries, interrelations, and differences within the scope of the intervention process through a systematic literature review of 170 articles. Firstly, the components of the intervention were examined and classified from key references. Subsequently, 170 articles to be analysed were determined through a literature scan. While reviewing these articles, the preliminary classification was refined, and the articles were systematically categorized accordingly. Finally, analyses were performed on the categorized data to understand the scope and focal points of each intervention component, the relationship between them, and the physical output of the intervention, namely the planned/executed application. In conclusion, it is observed through this review that parts of the envelope, which constitute the boundary between the external and internal environment, are generally the primary targets of intervention to remove marks of physical and environmental obsolescence. Retrofit is the most common intervention type, typically applied to fulfil sustainability criteria, regardless of heritage value. Additionally, rehabilitation and restoration are frequently applied in heritage buildings, while refurbishment and renovation are more prevalent in non-heritage ones.