With the scarcity of open spaces, the high concentration of empty buildings in areas already consolidated in cities, and an awareness of the impact of new constructions on the environment, refurbishments are increasingly part of both the architect's work routine and the client's choice. At the same time, they are often synonymous with unexpected surprises and problems, causing delays and discomfort. This text presents four pre-work strategies that can help you better prepare for this moment.
Although all types of works are susceptible to accidents and imponderables, when making alterations to an already completed building, it is necessary to deal with a series of elements that do not exist in a new construction. In a reform, it is necessary to deal with something pre-existing, which has two main obstacles. The first is the common lack of information about what has been built, and what is masked behind the finishing layers. The second is how long that building has existed and its consequent degradation. In addition, because they are renovations, many problems are discovered and resolved during the work, which opens up a gap of uncertainty, both for the client and for those who monitor and manage it.
