As part of the RenoVisor project’s co-creation process, EcoVision recently completed a series of engagement activities aimed at ensuring the RenoVisor Single Family Home (SFH) tool is designed around the real needs of its future users.

A total of 216 participants contributed to the RenoVisor co-creation process through surveys and interactive click-dummy workshops. This included 198 survey respondents, comprising 67 adult citizens, 103 school teenagers and 28 sectoral experts working across areas such as municipal housing, green finance and the wider energy and retrofit sectors. A further 18 participants took part in dedicated click-dummy testing workshops.

The engagement process explored the barriers and motivations surrounding home energy renovation while gathering valuable feedback on the design and functionality of the RenoVisor tool. Participants were also introduced to the project and its objectives, helping to raise awareness of deep energy renovation and the supports available to homeowners.

What We Learned 

The findings revealed a strong interest for a user-friendly, accessible platform to support renovation decision-making. Cost emerged as the most significant barrier across all participant groups, while reducing energy bills, improving comfort and increasing warmth were identified as key motivations for undertaking retrofit works.

Survey responses showed overwhelming support for the concept, with 63 of 67 adults, 101 of 103 teenagers and all 28 experts stating they would use the tool. Participants consistently highlighted the importance of clear language, simple navigation, quick results, transparent cost estimates and practical guidance on grants and financing options throughout the renovation journey. 

Testing the Click-Dummy Prototype 

The click-dummy workshops, created by our project partners FARAPI, reinforced these findings. Participants described the tool as promising, visually appealing and particularly useful during the early planning stages of a renovation project. Feedback also identified opportunities for improvement, including reducing technical jargon, improving mobile accessibility, expanding housing and heating system options, and providing greater flexibility for users undertaking renovations in phases rather than through a full deep retrofit.

Shaping the Next Phase 

The insights gathered through these activities will directly inform the ongoing development of the RenoVisor SFH tool, helping to ensure it remains practical, trustworthy and accessible for homeowners, advisors and other key stakeholders. Citizen feedback will continue to play a central role in creating a tool that helps simplify the renovation journey and supports better-informed retrofit decisions.

Learn more about RenoVisor here