ADAPTIVE REUSE

Abstract:

The "adaptive reuse" concept is a prominent conservation strategy for existing buildings.
Buildings have been repurposed throughout history. Adaptive reuse initiatives are on the rise
in response to preservation trends and sustainability concerns. Combining modern and
ancient architecture preserves the original character while rejuvenating the structure. There
are several levels of understanding related to the old building and its original use, the
modified building and its new use, and the transition itself. The theories are grouped based on
their approach to adaptive reuse. Three methods may be identified: typological,
technological, and architectural strategies. Adaptive reuse of historic buildings should have
minimum influence on its heritage significance and setting. To repurpose a heritage building,
developers need first understand why it is designated as such. Protecting the building's
heritage values is essential for adaptive reuse to be effective.

Introduction:

Adaptive reuse is the practice of changing an obsolete or ineffective

transforms one object into a new item that may be utilized for another purpose. Sometimes,
Nothing changes except the item's use. The most successful built heritage adaptive reuse
projects preserve the building's significance while adding a modern layer that adds value for
the future. Adaptive reuse may preserve a building's fabric while enhancing its usage.
Adaptive reuse is a growing trend in urban development that celebrates the preservation and
transformation of historic buildings into vibrant new spaces. This practice not only honors the
past but also offers sustainable solutions for the future. By repurposing existing structures,
developers can breathe new life into neglected buildings, reduce waste, and create unique
spaces that contribute to the character and charm of a city. When a structure no longer serves
its original purpose, adaption may be necessary to retain its heritage importance.

Some State agencies are implementing strategies to control change and adapt to the growth of
cultural sites. Adaptive reuse regulations include set standards to minimize the influence on a
building's heritage values, such as

 avoiding "façadism" (gutting the structure but maintaining its façade).

 New work must be current, not a bad replica of the building's original style.
  The building should be repurposed in a way that is compatible with its intended
usage.

Adaptive reused architecture requires very different design techniques that differ from
conventional design process. Architects utilize architectural strategies to determine the
structure of a building, whether intentionally or unintentionally. Strategic decisions are
influenced by several aspects, including site circumstances, structural systems, programming
needs, and personal vision. Brooker and Stone suggest that when reusing a building, the
original structure and its interaction with the new should be prioritized in the design process.

Redesign
Contemporary theories on adaptive reuse:

Typological approach
The first publication on adaptive reuse ‘New uses for old buildings’ came from
Cantacuzino [1]. The introductory essay discusses adaptive reuse and its importance in
conservation practices. Examples from across the world are organized by building type
before conversion. In 1989, the author published a new book on the subject, which included
an introduction essay and other instances. This time, six different building categories are
shown, each with many building kinds. Several writers presented an opening essay followed
by case studies organized by building category or kind in the host space.
Douglas [2] organizes his work on building adaptation based on host space typology, but only
covers a narrow range of building types. The author discusses only a few new uses for each
kind, without providing case studies. Instead, he emphasizes the reasons for duplication and
the challenges and chances for reuse.
Furthermore,
Numerous studies have addressed the reuse of a certain building type, e.g.
Religious structures or industrial buildings.

Technical approach
Some authors consider building adaptation as largely a technical issue. Some 'guidebooks'
have been prepared to adapt buildings for new functions. In 1987, Highfield published a
booklet titled 'The Rehabilitation and Re-use of Old Buildings'. The booklet covers the
benefits of rehabilitation for both domestic and nondomestic buildings. It also includes a
technical chapter on improving fire resistance, thermal performance, acoustic performance,
preventing damp penetration, condensation, and timber decay, and case studies. Douglas [2]
mostly focuses on the technological elements of reuse. Both Highfield and Douglas consider
the consequences of building protection, but they view the host space as a shell or container,
overlooking conservation and heritage elements.
Some writers emphasize the need for a multidisciplinary approach to reusing historic
structures, combining conservation, design, planning, and engineering, while others focus on
technical concerns.

Strategic approach
The strategic approach focuses on the processes and tactics used for
Converting major structures. Machado in his article, "Architecture as
Palimpsest provides what he calls'some pre-theoretical "suggestive material"
That might be established as thoughts to address what is special to remodeling.
[3]. He considers a series of metaphors to suggest different possible ways of
thinking about remodelling. Brooker and Stone [4] identified many design ideas for building
reuse by analyzing modern conversions. They identified three strategies: intervention,
insertion, and installation. Brooker and Stone's technique starts with physical intervention but
focuses on the emotive side of each adaption. For them, the most important and
meaningful factor in adaptive reuse is the original building. Jäger [5] proposes an
very similar method offering a collection of case studies classed as
regards the applied method toward the existing fabric, being (1) addition.
(2) Transformation or (3) Conversion. The cases are selected based on their

architectural quality and originality.

Benefits:

Preserving History:

One of the key benefits of adaptive reuse is the preservation of architectural history. Many
old buildings hold significant cultural and historical value, reflecting the craftsmanship and
design trends of their time. By repurposing these structures, developers can maintain their
original character while adapting them to meet modern needs. This approach allows for a
harmonious blend of old and new, creating a sense of continuity and connection to the past.

Sustainable Solutions:

In addition to preserving history, adaptive reuse offers sustainable solutions for urban
development. Repurposing existing buildings reduces the demand for new construction,
which can have a significant environmental impact. By reusing materials and infrastructure,
developers can minimize waste and energy consumption, contributing to a more sustainable
built environment. Adaptive reuse projects often incorporate green building practices, such as
energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials, further reducing their environmental
footprint.

Community Revitalization:

Adaptive reuse projects have the power to revitalize neighbourhoods and stimulate economic
growth. By transforming old, abandoned buildings into vibrant new spaces, developers can
attract businesses, residents, and visitors to previously overlooked areas. These projects can
create jobs, increase property values, and enhance the overall quality of life in a community.
Adaptive reuse also fosters a sense of community pride and engagement, as residents see
their neighbourhood transformed into a thriving hub of activity.

Creative Adaptations:

The beauty of adaptive reuse lies in its endless possibilities for creative adaptation.
Developers have the opportunity to think outside the box and reimagine old spaces in
innovative ways. From converting industrial warehouses into trendy lofts to transforming old
schools into mixed-use developments, the potential for creative reuse is limitless. Each
project presents unique challenges and opportunities, requiring a thoughtful approach to
design and planning.

Challenges:

1. Potential Code Problems

Although adaptive reuse presents many opportunities, we may face some challenges in the
design and construction process. One of the most common problems is getting the building
up to code.

Depending on its age, the building may not meet current energy and accessibility
requirements. It may need to invest more upfront to bring the building up to modern
standards.

Potentially Hazardous Materials

Some older buildings contain hazardous materials, like asbestos and lead paint. Before
starting any construction work, you will need to make sure these materials are safely
removed.

Less Flexibility

An existing building may be less flexible than new construction. An architect can design a
new building to fit your exact programmatic needs, but with an existing building, they will
need to adapt to its conditions. Due to these constraints, you may lose some efficiency in your
layout.
Unforeseen conditions

Planning a budget for a major renovation can be tricky. Unforeseen issues with a building or
site may be hard to plan for until you’re well into a project. Updating infrastructure for
modern technology needs can be especially tricky and costly.

Building code enforcement.

Building codes have changed dramatically in the past few decades. Any renovation project
will need to meet today’s building code and accessibility standards.

Conclusion:

Adaptive reuse is more than just a trend – it is a sustainable, cost-effective, and socially
responsible approach to urban development. By preserving history, promoting sustainability,
revitalizing communities, and encouraging creativity, adaptive reuse projects offer a win-win
solution for developers, residents, and the environment. As cities continue to evolve and
grow, the art of adaptive reuse will play an increasingly important role in shaping the urban
landscape and preserving the stories of our past for generations to come

References.

1. Cantacuzino, S. , New uses for old buildings, Architectural press : London, 1975.
2. Douglas, J., Building Adaptation, 2 ed., Elsevier: Oxford, 2006.
3. Machado, R., Old buildings as palimpsest. Towards a theory of remodeling, Progressive
Architecture, 11, pp. 46-49, 1976.
4. Brooker, G. & Stone, S., Re-readings. Interior architecture and the design principles of
remodelling existing buildings. RIBA Enterprises: London, 2004.
5. Jäger, F. (ed.), Old & New. design Manual for Revitalizing Existing Buildings.
Birkhäuser: Basel, 2010.
6. B. Plevoets & K. Van Cleempoel, Adaptive reuse as a strategy towards conservation of
cultural heritage: a literature review, 2011.
7. Dafna Fisher-Gewirtzman, Adaptive Reuse Architecture Documentation and Analysis,
2016.
8. Berkan Kahvecioğlu * and Semra Arslan Selçuk, Adaptive Reuse in the Realm of
Architecture: Global Research Trends and Gaps for the Future Studies
9. Ar. Shreya Chandrakar, Ar. Sandeep Singh, Adaptive Reuse Of Heritage Building,2022.