Adaptive Reuse of the Built Heritage: Concepts and Cases of an Emerging Discipline

Adaptive reuse is the process of repairing and restoring existing buildings for new or continued use. This book introduces it as a new discipline and provides students and professionals with the understanding and tools they need to develop innovative and creative approaches to rethink and redesign existing buildings. It features over 100 high-quality color illustrations and case studies from different time periods and strategies for intervention.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 236 pages
Publication date: 08 May 2019
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Adaptive reuse, the process of repairing and restoring existing buildings for new or continued use, is becoming an increasingly important aspect of architectural practice. With mounting demographic, economic, and ecological challenges limiting opportunities for new construction, architects are shifting their focus towards transforming and adapting existing buildings. This book introduces adaptive reuse as a new discipline, providing students and professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to develop innovative and creative approaches to rethinking and redesigning existing buildings.

Part I of the book outlines the history of adaptive reuse and explains the concepts and methods that underpin new design processes and contemporary practice. It explores the theoretical foundations of adaptive reuse, including sustainability, resilience, and the preservation of cultural heritage. The chapter also discusses the challenges and opportunities associated with adaptive reuse, such as preserving historic structures, integrating modern technologies, and addressing social and economic disparities.

Part II of the book consists of a wide range of case studies, representing different time periods and strategies for intervention. The case studies cover iconic adaptive reuse projects such as the Caixa Forum in Madrid and the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, as well as less famous and spontaneous transformations such as the Kunsthaus Tacheles in Berlin, projects from Italy, Spain, Croatia, Belgium, Poland, and the USA. Each case study provides detailed insights into the design process, challenges faced, and the outcomes achieved.

Adaptive Reuse of the Built Heritage is an essential reading for students and professionals in architecture, interior design, heritage conservation, and urban planning. The book features over 100 high-quality color illustrations that showcase the diverse range of adaptive reuse projects and their innovative designs. The chapters are written in a clear and accessible style, making it easy for readers to grasp the key concepts and apply them to their own work.

In conclusion, adaptive reuse is a crucial practice for addressing the challenges of urbanization and climate change. By transforming and adapting existing buildings, architects can create sustainable, resilient, and culturally rich environments that benefit both the present and future generations. This book provides a comprehensive and practical guide to adaptive reuse, equipping students and professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to contribute to this important field.

Weight: 440g
Dimension: 159 x 232 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138062764