Building performance in refurbishment projects: a hybrid framework for holistic performance delivery

Purpose Refurbishment projects are recognised as complex in nature, as they embed a high number of uncertainties and risks. One of the optimum aims in a refurbishment project is ensuring that performance is holistically and systematically accounted for. Although many studies have attempted to focus performance, limited studies have focused on the process followed or complexities encountered. This paper aims to provide an improved mechanism that support building performance accountancy for refurbishment projects. Design/methodology/approach Data have been attained using secondary data from the literature and primary data using semi-structured interviews. The secondary data supported identifying building performance attributes for refurbishment projects whereas the primary data were obtained from two building surveyors, two quantity surveyors, an architect and an MEP engineer who are involved in managing performance when executing refurbishment projects. Findings The findings show that refurbishment projects are primarily managed in the same way as new-build projects, which can be one of the major issues that cause many pitfalls as the project progresses. Analysis revealed that there is a lack of coordination between stakeholders and relevant data/information, which cause poor consideration of performance indicators. Analysis also showed that there is a lack of standardised approach to follow for refurbishment projects, which lead to poor performance considerations. Originality/value This paper presents a novel hybrid framework designed to proactively enhance building performance in refurbishment projects. By addressing the unique complexities and data requirements of existing structures, this framework aims to drive both immediate performance improvements and long-term optimisation.