For a long time, energy-efficient refurbishment was primarily designed with winter in mind: improving insulation, upgrading heating systems and reducing energy consumption. But summers are changing, and our buildings must adapt accordingly.
The summer of 2026 reminded us once again that summer comfort is becoming a key consideration in renovation projects. Good insulation is not enough if solar gain, glazing, sun protection and ventilation are not considered as an integrated whole.
Think about the summer before the renovations begin
The first solution is to prevent heat from entering. External sunshades, the choice of glazing and effective management of night-time ventilation can significantly limit overheating.
Air conditioning should therefore not be the default solution. Certain solutions, such as geocooling, sunshades or specific technical choices, are much easier to incorporate when planned from the outset of the project.
A renovation decision made today will have an impact for the next 20 or 30 years.
The role of CI Rénovations
Our CI Rénovations service supports property owners in taking a holistic approach to renovation: feasibility studies, energy assessments, investment planning, planning permission, site management and performance monitoring.
Our aim is to enable property owners to make the right decisions at the right time, taking into account energy, technical, regulatory and economic considerations.
Because a successful renovation should not only improve the building in winter; it should also ensure its occupants remain comfortable as temperatures rise.
To read the full analysis and discover the five questions to ask yourself before starting a renovation, see our article in the Tribune de Genève.
