ipl-logo

Adaptive Reuse In Architecture

957 Words4 Pages

Adaptive reuse is the process of reinventing pre-existing buildings that are no longer in use. Once a building ceases to serve its original function, it may be repurposed for another use while still conserving and maintaining integral aspects of its architecture. It is about making use of what we already have and for this to be done, the potential for such reuse needs to be confirmed at the outset- to assess the possibilities of reuse as well as to ensure that the worth of the property does not diminish. At the most basic level, adaptive reuse may be compared to concepts such as recycling, reuse and upcycling. In most contexts, recycling implies utilising discarded materials such as glass and paper to create an entirely new product after …show more content…

Despite buildings being an investment and an asset, they take up large amounts of resources to maintain and eventually are no longer appropriate for their original intended purpose. In several instances, old buildings have cultural significance or value. Therefore, reusing them without demolishing them or majorly disrupting their facade helps preserve historical structures. Though decisions of this nature are usually ruled over by financial considerations, they shouldn’t be the only factor in the process- environmental impacts must also be counted since most communities are beginning to strive towards a sustainable …show more content…

Another example of adaptive reuse would be The Quarry Theatre at St. Luke’s by Foster Wilson Architects. Here, an out of use Church and minister’s house was renovated to create a performing art’s space for a local school. The building has seen the addition of a new foyer as well as an extension to accommodate the backstage area. Another reuse project which aimed to preserve the heritage of the original structure at the very outset is The Green Building and is located in Kentucky, USA. Prior to its current state, The Green Building used to be a dry goods store. Now, it is a mixed-use building accommodating a gallery, offices, conference rooms and even a restaurant for the tenants. As described by the designers, “The Green Building has become the catalyst to the reinvigoration of the district, now the hip city center for arts and

Open Document