Heritage Retrofit in Practice: Learning from Ireland and Estonia

To mark National Heritage Week 2026, the RIAI, in conjunction with SEAI, is pleased to host an international seminar exploring approaches to the energy upgrade of traditional and historic buildings in Ireland and Estonia.

A delegation from the Estonian Ministry of Culture will present LIFE heritageHOME, an EU co-funded project focused on supporting the energy-efficient renovation of heritage homes while safeguarding their cultural and architectural significance.

The seminar will also provide an opportunity to exchange experiences and consider how Ireland approaches the retrofit of traditional and historic buildings through national energy-upgrade schemes, published guidance and project delivery.

The programme will include:

- A presentation on LIFE heritageHOME by the Estonian Ministry of Culture;
- An overview from SEAI and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage of Irish energy-upgrade schemes and available guidance;
- A case study from the SEAI Traditional Homes Pilot Scheme; and
- An architect’s perspective on working on retrofit projects in Ireland.

Speakers and the detailed running order will be confirmed closer to the date. This event is free to attend, but advance booking is essential as places are limited.
Please note this is an in-person event only. Registration, tea and coffee is available from 10am, with presentations commencing at 10:30am.

RIAI members may reserve a place through the booking link on this page. Non-members who would like to attend should contact Deirdre Keeley at dkeeley@riai.ie.