HouseEurope! The Renovation Show

This design studio curated the exhibition “The Renovation Show” exploring the transformative power of renovation and its profound impact on our built environment. The exhibition is part of the European Citizens’ Initiative HouseEurope!, which advocates for EU policies that support sustainable renovation over demolition and new construction. Since 2023, this initiative has worked to integrate social, economic, and ecological considerations from the architectural sphere into legislation and public discourse. In a culture that often favors the new over the old, this exhibition reconsiders the enduring value of existing structures. Showcasing the work of diploma students and experiences and convictions of teaching assistants and professors at the Department of Architecture at ETH Zurich, the exhibition captures the profound change in the architectural education shifting from newly built to renovation design. Renovation is not merely about improving efficiency or property value; it engages with the social, environmental, and economic fabric of our urban landscapes. It is essential for preserving the cultural and historical narratives that define our communities, preventing architectural heritage from being exploited for profit-driven gentrification, and protecting our environment from further degradation. The studio’s collective work highlights the agency of the architect to initiate the broader cultural shift to make renovation the new norm.

The Renovation Show (Exhibition)
Renovation Voices (Ep 1) On Ecology
Renovation Voices (Ep 2) On Economy
Renovation Voices (Ep 3) On Society
The Renovation Show (Reader)