Adaptive Reuse Architecture: A Trend that can Change the World

Architecture is proof and witness of the passing time and its subsequent social evolution. One can travel through time while entering a building that was imagined and developed in another era. Not only the techniques and aesthetics were different, but also the people for whom each building was destined. As society’s needs, habits and culture morphs, architecture morphs accordingly. Adaptive reuse architecture is a fascinating path worth taking during this evolution.

One of the most damaging industries for the environment is construction. The carbon footprint that each new building leaves after its development is mortifying. Architects, engineers and sustainability experts have searched for alternatives that can mitigate this impact. Adaptive reuse is the most creative and historically conscious one possible. 

Adaptive reuse consists in the repurposing of old buildings without affecting the historic and architectural value they have. This responds to the evolving needs of society and results in truly interesting spaces. This trend has taken over the world in the shape of museums, housing, cultural centers, restaurants, hotels, etc. Besides offering a unique aesthetic appeal, this trend drastically reduces its hazard for the environment.

When planning the repurposing of a building, it’s important to take in consideration the new use it will have and the different requirements this implies for practicality, comfort and safety. In case it will be destined for commercial uses, architects and engineers must be fully aware of the regulations to involve any necessary change in the repurposing process, like ventilation, ramps, emergency exits, etc. The building must also be evaluated in order to detect any possible dangerous building material (like asbestos) for everyone’s safety.

Even with these or any other obstacles that may appear, the adaptive reuse is undeniably less expensive than the construction of a whole new building. It also provides a true creative challenge for the developers, it’s a beautiful way of preserving history, of honoring our predecessors’ legacy, of providing cultural value for the community, and of assuming the responsibility that the construction industry carries.YOU MUST READ Construction Materials that Are Changing the World

• Jackie Craven, “Giving Giving Old Buildings New Life Through Adaptive Reuse”, Thought Co,

https://www.thoughtco.com/adaptive-reuse-repurposing-old-buildings-178242

• Kaelan Burkett, “Repurposed Architecture: Finding New Meanings in Abandoned Factories, Monasteries and Homes”, Architizer,  https://architizer.com/blog/inspiration/collections/repurposed-architecture/
• Jahnavi Sajip, “Repurposing Historic Buildings: 3 Important Aspects to Consider”, NY-Engineers,  https://www.ny-engineers.com/blog/repurposing-historic-buildings-3-important-aspects-to-consider

Rehabilitation as a Treatment, U.S. Department of the Interior, https://www.nps.gov/tps/standards/four-treatments/treatment-rehabilitation.htm