A structural equation modelling paradigm for eco-rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of cultural heritage buildings

The study developed an integrated hierarchical structural equation modelling (SEM) for the eco-rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of cultural heritage buildings (CHBs). The research method constituted 1) keyword-based mapping analysis, 2) questionnaire survey, and 3) model formulation using SEM. The model constituted three environmental parameters, corresponding criteria, and their relative importance weights (RIWs). This portrayed the efficient use of materials and resources (MR), indoor environmental quality (IEQ), and energy efficiency (EE), and ranked them to prioritize action. The results showed that MR, IEQ, and EE acquired RIWs of 33.03%, 32.28%, and 34.7%, respectively. For MR criteria level, heritage elements' integrity, material durability and resilience, and designing for adaptability attained RIWs of 8.67%, 8.12%, and 7.95%, respectively. For IEQ criteria level, heritage building age and condition, the efficiency of the ventilation system, as well as space function and activity, depicted RIWs of 15.34%, 13.33%, and 11.41%, mutually. For EE criteria level, interventions to attain an energy-efficient heritage building envelope, the efficiency of the electromechanical system, and installing smart systems for monitoring and control rendered RIWs of 15.59%, 15.01%, and 13.61%, consecutively. The study applied the proposed model to two distinct case study projects. The differences between them were evident at both the parameter and criteria levels due to either the inherent potentials or limitations of the project. Thus, the proposed model provided flexibility for application and promoted novel approaches for heritage conservationists, environmental engineers, and decision-makers to think, act, and respond to CHB ecorehabilitation and adaptive reuse principles and practices.