Samenvatting

This thesis investigates the restoration and structural reinforcement of a historically protected 19th-century residential building on the island of Hydra, Greece. Undertaken within the strict constraints of Greek heritage law (ΦΕΚ 594Δ/1978), the project aims to enhance structural safety and environmental sustainability while preserving the architectural and cultural authenticity of the building.
A multidisciplinary methodology was adopted, including on-site visual inspections, comparative case study analysis, expert interviews, and digital documentation using 3D laser scanning and Building Information Modelling (BIM). Although structural analysis software (NEXT) was initially considered, its limitations in modeling masonry structures necessitated a shift toward literature-based evaluation and precedent studies for performance assessment.

The final intervention strategy involved the full injection of Natural Hydraulic Lime (NHL 3.5) mortar into all masonry walls to restore cohesion, improve crack distribution, and preserve the building’s breathability. The deteriorated pitched roof was entirely reconstructed using engineered timber, anchored with stainless-steel rebars to act as a flexible seismic diaphragm without compromising the building’s original geometry or appearance. For the floor structure,
deteriorated timber joists were reinforced internally with flat steel plates concealed within the existing material profile, enhancing shear and bending capacity while maintaining visual continuity.

To support energy autonomy, Dyaqua Invisible Solar Tiles were proposed for roof integration. These photovoltaic tiles replicate the appearance of traditional Byzantine-style clay tiles, allowing renewable energy generation without violating visual conservation standards. Simulations confirmed their potential to achieve net-zero energy consumption under typical Mediterranean solar conditions.
All proposed materials and methods were selected based on performance, reversibility, compatibility with traditional construction, and regulatory compliance. This research offers a replicable and conservation-sensitive framework for the sustainable retrofitting of heritage buildings in coastal and seismic environments, balancing modern performance requirements with long-term cultural preservation.