# Evaluating Resilience and Thermal Comfort in Mediterranean Dwellings: A Level(s) Framework Approach
## 4 Discussion  
The resilience assessment of pilot cases CS-1 and CS-2 provides valuable insights into their current conditions and adaptability. However, not considering previous research loses the opportunity to place the findings within a broader context. Relevant studies that could complement the results and improve understanding of the challenges and solutions raised are reviewed below [35].  
Flexibility in Housing Design  
CS-1\({}^{\prime}\)s structural rigidity can benefit from adaptive approaches such as those proposed by [PERSON] et al. ([PERSON] et al., 2025), who highlight the importance of flexibility in housing to meet changing needs. Solutions such as movable walls and modular spaces could improve adaptability without major structural reforms.  
Space Optimization and Functional Design  
The CS-2 case faces distribution problems, addressed in studies such as [PERSON] et al.'s ([PERSON] et al., 2021) on optimizing optimal homes. Reconfiguring the spaces of CS-2 with multifunctional areas would improve the home's functionality and use.  
Thermal Comfort for Vulnerable Populations  
The gap in thermal comfort standards, especially for older people, could be addressed by following research like that of [PERSON] ([PERSON], 2025) that provides guidelines for improving thermal comfort through more efficient systems and insulating materials that reduce reliance on heating.  
Participatory Design and User Feedback  
Participatory design, such as that proposed by [PERSON] et al. ([PERSON] et al., 2024), ensures that designs are better adapted to users' needs. Including residents in the design process in cases CS-1 and CS-2 would increase the effectiveness and acceptance of the reforms, improving their quality of life.  
Studies on social sustainability and community cohesion, such as those by [PERSON] et al. ([PERSON], 2018), highlight how design can foster interaction and strengthen social resilience in urban neighbourhoods. Accessible, communal spaces could improve integration and well-being in neighbourhoods such as CS-1.  
Climate Change Resilience  
Based on EU-level Technical Guidance on Adapting Buildings to Climate Change BEST PRACTICE GUIDANCE, the climate-resilient design suggests integrating green roofs and rainwater harvesting systems. This would not only improve thermal comfort but also contribute to the environmental sustainability of homes.  
\begin{table}
\begin{tabular}{c c c c c c c} \hline \hline  & \multicolumn{3}{c}{**CS-1**} & \multicolumn{3}{c}{**CS-2**} \\ \cline{2-7}  & **C1** & **C2** & **C3** & **C1** & **C2** & **C3** \\ \hline m\({}^{2}\) available & - & 14 m\({}^{2}\) & 21.20 m\({}^{2}\) & - & 13.40 m\({}^{2}\) & 24 m\({}^{2}\) \\ \hline rental price m\({}^{2}\) & & 21 \(\xi\) & 21 \(\xi\) & & 22 \(\xi\) & 22 \(\xi\) \\ \hline estimated rental price & - & 294 \(\xi\) & 445 \(\xi\) & - & 295 \(\xi\) & 528 \(\xi\) \\ \hline economic cost of & & & & & & \\ refurbishment & 15,456 \(\xi\) & 15,456 \(\xi\) & 15,456 \(\xi\) & 18,165 \(\xi\) & 18,165 \(\xi\) & 18,165 \(\xi\) \\ \hline amortisation time (years) & - & 4–5 & 2.5–3.5 & - & 5–6 & 2.5–3.5 \\ \hline \hline \end{tabular}
\end{table}
Table 3: Identification of costs and depreciation of the investment.  
Integrating previous research on flexibility, thermal comfort, energy efficiency, participatory design and social sustainability would strengthen the proposals for CS-1 and CS-2. These solutions would allow for the creation of more resilient, adaptable and sustainable homes aligned with international best practices.