Adaptive Reuse as a Strategy to Meet Contemporary Housing Needs

Abstract

Since the 19 th century, many conservation and restoration theories have outlined major architectural conservation strategies, culminating in the formalization of adaptive reuse as a practice in the 1970s. This consequently gave birth to impressive works of architecture that helped preserve numerous buildings that were destined for demolition. Positioned as a cross between architecture and conservation, adaptive reuse strongly contributes to sustainable development in environmental, economic, social, and cultural terms as well as ensure a building's continued life. This is especially beneficial for housing sites with heritage values. Contrary to other approaches of historic preservation, adaptive reuse involves some alteration of the building to achieve contemporary functionality and relevance in accordance with occupant expectations, leading to new housing typologies. This chapter elaborates on contemporary adaptive reuse concepts and case studies involving the transformation of existing historic buildings and sites for housing.