Constructing the New Urban Environment: Challenging the Idea of Adaptive Reuse

Abstract

"Adaptive reuse is concerned with how an architectural site creates a direct connection with not only what is present, but also to what was in the past. It is a concept that is integrated in the interior design process and involves revealing the hidden spirit of a place through the existing context (Brooker and Stone 2018). This paper challenges the idea of adaptive reuse by exploring the impact and benefit of new-builds in the urban environment, specifically in the context of Western culture and civilization. Designers are often tasked to practice with existing parameters such as an enclosed room and maintaining building integrity. In working with these set parameters and the involvement of adaptive reuse, it allows for consideration for the site, contextual values, and sustainability. However, new construction is inevitable in the urban environment."