Lar de Lembranças: Renovação de uma casa de praia

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the intersection between low environmental impact architecture and heritage renovation in the context of the city of Luanda, Angola, through the revitalisation of Casa da Praia, a space full of memories. The study aims to apply eco-efficient architectural practices to an existing building, using methods that meet the specific climatic and social needs of Luanda, a rapidly growing city. The dissertation is divided into four main parts: a contextual analysis of Luanda, the theoretical development of environmental efficiency in architecture, the analysis of case studies and the practical application of the solutions in the Casa da Praia project. The work proposes an integrated approach that combines the preservation of the symbolic value of the house with the use of low environmental impact technologies, such as rainwater harvesting, solar energy and the use of local materials. The challenges of greenwashing in low environmental impact architecture and the importance of ensuring authenticity in the practices adopted are explored. The dissertation also analyses international and local case studies, as well as highlighting the adaptability of eco-efficiency solutions in emerging economies, with a focus on climate resilience and energy efficiency. It concludes that the renovation of Casa da Praia can serve as a model for the implementation of environmental performance strategies in urban contexts in developing countries, by creating a synergy between technical innovation and respect for family and cultural memories.