A Discussion on the Conceptual Design of Multifunctional Exoskeletons for Sustainable Regeneration of Buildings in Urban Areas

The design and erection of new buildings and structures are today driven by strict requirements in terms of sustainability and circular economy, but they represent only a minor part of the built heritage. Hence, it is clear that the maintenance and upgrading of existing buildings play a key role in the achievement of the objectives identified in many developed countries, so that the regeneration of buildings represents the core of many real-world projects. Regenerating existing buildings requires the achievement of modern reuse requirements, the modulation of structural and energy performance, but primarily the fulfilment of many objectives associated with extrinsic (urban planning) and intrinsic (architectural, structural and technological) features. In the present paper, a discussion on the role and potentialities of exoskeletons is reported with the objective of supporting decision makers in resolving the issues associated with the need to improve the overall performance of existing buildings in urban areas. In particular, relevant aspects associated with the conceptual design of multifunctional exoskeletons are reviewed in order to chart a rational course to perform multiscale and interdisciplinary design methodologies.