An architectural permanence to fight against energy poverty

A groundbreaking approach to retrofitting social housing in the Nord-Pas de Calais Mining Basin demonstrates that inhabitant participation can significantly enhance energy efficiency and combat energy poverty. The study, conducted over three years with Maisons & Cités, reveals that involving residents from the project's inception leads to more tailored and effective retrofit strategies, addressing behavior-driven energy consumption—responsible for half of a home's total usage. This participatory method not only improves energy outcomes but also fosters democratic design practices and empowers local communities. The research challenges traditional power dynamics by embedding architects permanently in project sites, acting as 'local architects' to bridge communication gaps between residents and decision-makers. This innovative model, tested in the Cité d’Orient estate, offers a scalable solution for sustainable urban development.

Pagnier, M. (2025). An architectural permanence to fight against energy poverty. Architecture, Landscape, and Design in Post-Mining Territories, 51–61. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003476306-8