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Back to Knowledge Hub07.04.2025
Historic preservation is an important topic in architecture and construction that focuses on preserving cultural heritage. When it comes to ventilating historic buildings, preservationists and restorers face unique challenges. Preserving the building fabric and protecting it from moisture are essential, but modern ventilation systems must not detract from the appearance of the listed building. In this context, decentralized ventilation systems are becoming increasingly important.
Integrating ventilation systems into historic preservation requires tact and expertise. In this article, you will learn more about the challenges and advantages of decentralized ventilation systems in historic buildings. We highlight best practices and show how ventilation systems can be installed inconspicuously and effectively. In addition, we discuss possible subsidy options for the use of decentralized ventilation in historic preservation. A practical example rounds off this article and shows how successfully decentralized ventilation systems can be used in the renovation of historic buildings.
Historic preservation plays a crucial role in preserving cultural values and historical artifacts. Historic buildings are not only testimonies to past eras, but also shape our identity and give us insights into history. The protection of these buildings is therefore of great importance in order to preserve their cultural heritage for future generations.
In the context of ventilating historic buildings in monument preservation, special challenges must be taken into account. On the one hand, ventilation systems must meet modern requirements for comfort and energy efficiency, but on the other hand, they must not compromise the integrity and aesthetics of the listed building.
Striking a balance between protecting historical heritage and the need for modern technologies such as decentralized ventilation systems is of central importance. Official regulations and requirements for listed buildings also play an important role in ensuring adequate ventilation of buildings without endangering their historical substance. Decentralized ventilation units offer an ideal way to implement energy-efficient ventilation in listed buildings. They do not require complex ductwork, can be discreetly integrated into walls or windows, and enable targeted ventilation of individual rooms. These advantages make them a key technology for architects, specialist planners, and craftsmen who specialize in the renovation of old buildings.
Careful consideration of the requirements of historic preservation and the potential applications of modern ventilation technologies is crucial to finding a sustainable and future-oriented solution for ventilating historic buildings.
Ventilating historic buildings presents planners and architects with particular challenges:
Structural limitations
When retrofitting ventilation systems in listed buildings, care must be taken to preserve the aesthetics and fabric of the building. Often, the existing structures are not designed for modern ventilation systems, which can lead to technical and design problems. Listed buildings often have strict requirements that severely restrict structural interventions. In many cases, a central ventilation system with ducts running through walls and ceilings is simply not feasible. In addition, insufficient air circulation can lead to moisture accumulation and long-term structural damage.
Energy efficiency & thermal insulation
Many historic buildings have thick walls made of brick or natural stone, which have high thermal inertia but are nevertheless poorly insulated. Inadequate ventilation can further increase heating requirements as warm indoor air escapes uncontrolled. Decentralized ventilation systems with heat recovery help to minimize heat loss and increase energy efficiency.
Requirements for historic buildings
Preserving the historic façade is a key requirement of historic preservation. Ventilation systems must therefore be designed so that they are barely visible and do not alter the exterior appearance of the building. Decentralized systems offer a solution here, as they can be integrated with discreet exterior covers or into window systems.
Close coordination with historic preservation authorities and specialist planners is, of course, an important aspect of this. Approval for changes to listed buildings requires precise planning and compliance with strict regulations. Expertise and experience are required here in order to meet ventilation requirements while preserving the historic character of the building. Ultimately, the ventilation of historic buildings requires a holistic and individual concept that takes both technical and design aspects into account. Through careful planning and implementation, listed buildings can be equipped with modern ventilation systems without compromising their historic charm.
Our soundproof ventilation fan range is particularly flexible and compact and has represented the highest sound insulation performance on the market for years. We see our primary task vis-à-vis architects and specialist planners when it comes to implementing decentralized ventilation tasks as providing competent and individual advice. There are almost endless installation options available to solve your project-specific tasks. With Ventomaxx, you can implement hybrid concepts combining passive and active soundproof ventilation from a single source.
Are you ready to take the next step? We look forward to hearing from you! Whether you have questions, need further information, or simply want to share your thoughts with us, please do not hesitate to contact us. Send us an email at info@ventomaxx.de or call us at +49 (0) 871 – 95 34 06 – 0. Our team is here for you and will support you every step of the way.
Decentralized ventilation systems offer a variety of advantages, especially in the context of historic preservation. Their decentralized design allows them to be individually adapted to the structural conditions of historic buildings. This is particularly important because conventional central ventilation systems often cannot be installed without major alterations to the building structure.
Easy retrofitting
Decentralized ventilation systems do not require complex air ducts and can be installed without major structural alterations. They are installed directly in the exterior wall or integrated into existing windows. This reduces the planning effort and enables rapid implementation.
Preservation of historical character
Thanks to modern designs and inconspicuous exterior covers, decentralized ventilation systems blend harmoniously into listed buildings. Special installation methods allow for installation without damaging the original building fabric.
Mold prevention & humidity control
Many historic buildings are at risk from moisture problems. Poor air circulation can lead to condensation forming on walls, which in the long term leads to mold growth. Decentralized ventilation units with humidity sensors automatically adjust the ventilation to ensure an optimal indoor climate.
Heat recovery & energy savings
High-quality decentralized ventilation units feature heat recovery, which returns up to 85% of the exhaust air heat back into the room. This reduces heating costs and keeps the building energy efficient.
Furthermore, decentralized ventilation systems offer a high degree of controllability and customizability. Modern technologies allow them to be controlled according to demand to ensure optimal air quality in historic buildings. This not only contributes to the well-being of the occupants, but also to the long-term preservation of the building fabric. In summary, the advantages of decentralized ventilation systems in historic preservation can be summarized as follows: flexibility, energy efficiency, easy installation, high controllability, and customizability. The targeted use of such systems allows the ventilation of historic buildings to be designed effectively and sustainably.
The integration of decentralized ventilation systems in historic preservation requires a special touch and expertise in order to ventilate historic buildings appropriately without compromising their architectural integrity.
A key best practice approach is the customized planning and adaptation of ventilation systems to the specific requirements of the respective historic building. This includes a careful analysis of the structural conditions and individual coordination of the ventilation solution.
Another important aspect is the selection of high-quality and durable materials that meet the high requirements of historic preservation. Particular attention should be paid to the integration of the ventilation components into the historic building to ensure a harmonious integration.
Sound insulation plays a crucial role in ensuring living comfort in historic buildings. The use of sound insulation can minimize disturbing noises and create pleasant room acoustics.
Furthermore, regular maintenance and care of decentralized ventilation systems is essential to ensure long-term high functionality and efficiency. Specially trained professionals who are familiar with the special features of historic buildings should be employed for this purpose.
A holistic approach that takes into account the requirements of historic preservation, air quality, and energy efficiency is essential. Through close cooperation between historic preservation authorities, architects, building services engineers, and ventilation experts, optimal solutions for the use of decentralized ventilation systems in historic buildings can be found.
The structural implementation of decentralized ventilation systems in listed buildings requires a high degree of sensitivity and expertise. Monument protection places particular emphasis on the preservation of historical building fabric and compliance with certain guidelines for renovation and conversion measures. The integration must not only be functional, but also aesthetically unobtrusive so as not to detract from the overall appearance of the historic building.
The gentle integration of ventilation components into listed buildings requires close coordination between planners, architects, and historic preservation authorities. It is crucial that the ventilation systems are integrated inconspicuously into walls or ceilings in order to preserve the character of the listed building. Careful planning of the air flow and positioning of the ventilation components is essential to ensure optimal air circulation without compromising the historical charm of the building. With customized solutions and professional installation, decentralized ventilation systems can be successfully integrated into listed buildings.
Various possible configurations:
Half-timbered houses & historic residential buildings
Half-timbered houses require constant air circulation to protect the sensitive wood from moisture damage. Decentralized ventilation units with regulated humidity, which can be discreetly integrated into the wall construction, are suitable here.
Churches & large public buildings
High ceilings and large room volumes pose particular challenges for ventilation. Here, decentralized units with powerful fans and smart controls can ensure optimal air circulation.
Schools, administrative buildings & old apartments
Old schools and administrative buildings often have poor air quality because window ventilation alone is not sufficient. Retrofitting decentralized ventilation units significantly improves the indoor climate and reduces the CO₂ content in the air.
Thanks to modern technologies, decentralized ventilation systems can not only help improve the indoor climate, but also support the preservation of historic buildings.
Ventomaxx offers a wide range of products that are suitable for installation in protected buildings. Take a look at our product portfolio and don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
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Investing in monument preservation measures, such as the installation of decentralized ventilation systems, can be financially demanding. It is therefore important to find out about possible funding opportunities in order to reduce costs and facilitate the renovation of historic buildings.
Many countries have government funding programs that support the preservation and modernization of listed buildings. Measures to improve energy efficiency, such as the installation of energy-efficient ventilation systems, are also often eligible for funding.
Some subsidy programs focus specifically on historic preservation and offer grants or low-interest loans for measures that serve to protect and preserve historic buildings. In these cases, the installation of decentralized ventilation systems may be considered an eligible measure.
It is worth inquiring about funding opportunities with regional historic preservation authorities, energy agencies, or building subsidy agencies. Combined subsidies are often possible, for example, by combining historic preservation and energy efficiency subsidies.
When applying for subsidies, all necessary documents should be carefully compiled and the application deadlines observed. It is advisable to find out about the various funding options at an early stage in order to benefit optimally from them when planning and implementing renovation measures.
In this way, not only is the preservation of historic buildings promoted, but the use of modern technologies, such as decentralized ventilation systems, is also supported in accordance with the requirements of historic preservation.
After two years of renovation, the historic “BONIFATIUS” on Nockherberg in Munich shines in new splendor. Built at the turn of the century, the listed apartment building was renovated with great attention to detail and at the same time adapted to modern requirements. With its 55 residential units and 6 commercial spaces, it is a prime example of the successful combination of historical charm and contemporary technology.
Challenge: A ventilation solution suitable for historic buildings without interfering with the building fabric
As the building is a listed historic monument, a ventilation solution had to be found that did not require any structural changes to the facade or building structure. At the same time, high sound insulation values and efficient air circulation had to be guaranteed.
Solution: AIR CONTROL FLAT with flat duct installation
The AIR CONTROL FLAT system was installed with a flat duct for discreet installation in the suspended ceiling and a facade closure in the window lintel. This solution enables invisible integration and ensures optimal air flow from room to room. The sound insulation is particularly noteworthy – with tested standard sound level differences of up to 65 dB Dn,e,w, outside noise is kept outside.
With its tested lengths of 500, 1000, and 1500 mm and a modular connection system, the flexible AIR CONTROL FLAT system offers a tailor-made solution for use in listed buildings. It was specially developed for areas with complex requirements, such as roof battens or loggias.
Result: Efficient, invisible ventilation solution for a listed building
Thanks to its discreet integration into the existing building fabric, the BONIFATIUS am Nockherberg was able to be upgraded with modern ventilation technology without compromising its historic appearance. The building now benefits from fresh air, optimal humidity control, and reduced heating costs—a suitable solution for similar renovation projects in historic preservation.
Die Integration von dezentralen Lüftungssystemen im Denkmalschutz stellt eine zukunftsweisende und nachhaltige Lösung dar. Durch die Anpassungsfähigkeit dieser Systeme an die speziellen Anforderungen historischer Gebäude wird nicht nur der Erhalt des baulichen Erbes gewährleistet, sondern auch ein zeitgemäßes und komfortables Raumklima geschaffen. Trotz der Herausforderungen, die mit der Belüftung von Denkmälern einhergehen, überwiegen die Vorteile der dezentralen Lüftungssysteme. Architekten, TGA-Planer und Handwerker profitieren von den flexiblen Einsatzmöglichkeiten und der leichteren Integration in die Bausubstanz. Mit einem Blick auf Fördermöglichkeiten und Praxisbeispiele wird deutlich, wie vielseitig und erfolgversprechend der Einsatz dieser Systeme sein kann. Die Kombination aus Tradition und Moderne macht die Nutzung dezentraler Lüftungssysteme im Denkmalschutz zu einer wichtigen Säule der Denkmalpflege und des zeitgemäßen Bauens.
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We provide architects and technical planners tailored solutions to address every ventilation challenge with precision. Whether it is sound insulation, energy efficiency, or optimising facade aesthetics, our expert technical teams are equipped to provide you with the ideal solutions.
With Ventomaxx, you gain access to comprehensive hybrid ventilation concepts that seamlessly combine passive and active systems from a single, trusted source. Our mission is to improve indoor air quality in the most efficient way.
We provide architects and technical planners tailored solutions to address every ventilation challenge with precision. Whether it is sound insulation,
energy efficiency, or optimising facade aesthetics, our expert technical teams are equipped to provide you with the ideal solutions.
With Ventomaxx, you gain access to comprehensive hybrid ventilation concepts that seamlessly combine passive and active systems from a single, trusted source. Our mission is to improve indoor air quality in the most efficient way.
