Futures

The Urgent Need for Adaptive Reuse in Architecture Today, (from page 20220824.)

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Summary

The article by Lloyd Alter argues that adaptive reuse of buildings is not a future challenge but a current necessity due to changing societal needs and sustainability concerns. He critiques an earlier piece suggesting that this issue lies ahead, highlighting that the decline of certain building types—like churches, cinemas, and malls—has been ongoing, exacerbated by the pandemic. With many office spaces becoming obsolete due to evolving work habits, the author emphasizes the importance of retrofitting existing structures instead of demolishing them. Organizations advocate for the conservation and reuse of buildings to mitigate carbon emissions. The piece calls for architects to embrace this challenge, transforming “dead” structures into functional spaces, which may be crucial for environmental sustainability and urban rehabilitation.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Adaptive Reuse of Buildings The trend of converting existing structures for new purposes is gaining momentum. Shifting from demolition and new construction to adaptive reuse of existing buildings. In 10 years, adaptive reuse may become the norm, reducing the need for new construction. A growing emphasis on sustainability and reducing carbon emissions in architecture. 5
Decline of Traditional Retail Spaces Many shopping malls and big-box stores are being repurposed due to changing consumer behavior. Transition from brick-and-mortar retail to online shopping and alternative uses for retail spaces. In a decade, many traditional retail spaces may be reimagined as distribution centers or community hubs. The rise of e-commerce and consumer preference for online shopping experiences. 4
Workplace Transformation The need for office space is evolving, with a focus on quality over quantity. Shift from traditional office environments to more flexible, high-quality workspaces. In 10 years, office buildings may be redesigned to prioritize health, sustainability, and employee well-being. The changing nature of work and employee expectations for work environments. 5
Obsolescence of Class B and C Office Buildings Older office buildings face challenges in maintaining occupancy and value. A movement away from less desirable office spaces towards modern, renovated facilities. In a decade, many older office buildings may be decommissioned or repurposed due to lack of demand. The push for healthier, more sustainable work environments following the pandemic. 4
Focus on Building Rehabilitation Urban areas are increasingly recognizing the importance of rehabilitating existing structures. From neglecting old buildings to actively working on their rehabilitation and reuse. In 10 years, cities may have comprehensive strategies for repurposing and upgrading existing buildings. A growing recognition of the economic and environmental benefits of building rehabilitation. 4

Concerns

name description relevancy
Obsolete Buildings A significant portion of U.S. office buildings and retail spaces is becoming obsolete due to changing work and shopping habits, risking economic downturns for affected areas. 5
Urban Decay As companies abandon older office buildings, cities may face increased urban decay, with vacant spaces leading to decline in local economies and services. 4
Sustainability in Architecture The challenge of creating sustainable designs from existing buildings is crucial, yet architects may struggle to adapt and innovate under new environmental standards. 5
Market Shift in Commercial Real Estate As demand shifts to higher-quality spaces, older buildings may lose value rapidly, leading to market instability and potential financial repercussions for landlords. 4
Environmental Impact of Demolition Demolishing outdated buildings incurs high carbon emissions; retrofitting existing structures is imperative to reduce embodied carbon and environmental harm. 5

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Adaptive Reuse of Buildings Transforming existing structures for new purposes rather than demolishing them, in response to changing societal needs and sustainability concerns. 5
Focus on Sustainability in Architecture Designing with sustainability as a core principle, emphasizing energy efficiency and minimizing environmental impact in building practices. 5
Shift to Healthier Office Environments A trend toward creating office spaces that prioritize air quality, natural light, and employee well-being as remote work reshapes office needs. 4
Conversion of Retail Spaces Repurposing obsolete retail spaces, such as big-box stores and malls, into distribution centers and other industrial uses due to e-commerce growth. 4
Community Responsibility in Urban Planning Encouraging cities to take proactive steps in rehabilitating vacant commercial spaces to support community needs and economic resilience. 4
Holistic Changes in Building Needs Recognizing the impact of technological advancements, like the internet, on the types of buildings required and how they are constructed. 4
Emphasis on Retrofitting and Refurbishment Encouraging the upgrading of existing buildings as a more carbon-efficient alternative to new construction, driven by climate considerations. 5

Technologies

name description relevancy
Adaptive Reuse Transforming obsolete buildings for new purposes to address sustainability and urban challenges. 5
Sustainable Design Designing buildings and spaces that minimize environmental impact and enhance energy efficiency. 5
Retrofit and Refurbishment Upgrading existing buildings to extend their use and improve carbon efficiency. 4
Carbon-efficient Building Practices Strategies focused on minimizing carbon emissions through building conservation and reuse. 5
Holistic Building Design Integrating technology and design to create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. 4
Smart Building Technologies Utilizing advanced technology for building management and improving occupant experience. 4

Issues

name description relevancy
Adaptive Reuse of Buildings The trend of repurposing existing buildings instead of new construction is gaining traction due to sustainability concerns. 5
Obsolescence of Commercial Real Estate Many office buildings and retail spaces are becoming obsolete as work habits and shopping behaviors shift post-pandemic. 5
Sustainability in Architecture There is an increasing emphasis on sustainable design principles in architecture, focusing on reusing existing structures. 4
Impact of Remote Work on Urban Spaces The rise of remote work is leading to changes in urban planning and the function of office spaces in cities. 4
Economic Consequences of Vacant Buildings Cities face challenges in managing abandoned commercial spaces and the economic impacts on surrounding areas. 4
Transition of Religious Structures Churches and other religious buildings are increasingly being converted for secular uses as organized religion declines. 3