Pilot Report on Private House Design, Construction & DIY Renovations

Sustainable living often begins at home—and sometimes, it starts with a hammer, a bucket of paint, and the determination to do things differently. In Real Stories of Sustainable Renovation, we bring together first-hand experiences from individuals who have embraced eco-friendly practices in their home improvement projects.

These stories are inspired by the DIY guide (DIY guide provides instructions and tips for completing various projects, ranging from simple home repairs to more complex crafts and home improvements) “Toxfree, Circular, and Climate-Friendly Renovation of My Home” and move beyond theory, showing how its principles translate into real-world choices. They highlight not only best practices but also the challenges that come with balancing affordability, availability of materials, and long-term sustainability.

More Than Just Renovation

What makes these accounts compelling is the personal dimension. Renovators share their motivations—from reducing toxic exposure for their families to cutting energy costs, or simply wanting to tread more lightly on the planet. They open up about their material choices, whether reusing reclaimed timber, opting for low-VOC paints, or investing in renewable energy solutions. And perhaps most importantly, they speak honestly about the lessons learned, including the compromises, surprises, and moments of creativity that shaped their journey.

Why These Stories Matter

These narratives act as living examples of sustainable renovation in action. They show how principles like circularity, resource efficiency, and climate-conscious design can be integrated into everyday decisions—whether replacing windows, insulating walls, or rethinking interior finishes.

For homeowners, the stories provide relatable guidance that demystifies sustainable renovation. For builders and professionals, they reveal the real-world considerations that clients face. And for anyone curious about creating healthier living environments, they demonstrate that sustainability is achievable in practical, incremental steps.

A Resource to Inspire Action

By pairing personal accounts with the structured advice from the DIY guide, Real Stories of Sustainable Renovation offers both inspiration and practical direction. It reminds us that every project, no matter how small, contributes to a larger shift toward healthier, more resilient homes.

Read more: https://interreg-baltic.eu/project/nonhazcity-3/#output-11

Programme Manual Online

Choose