Ramola Helena Lewis

November 2013

Re- architecture:
Adaptive Reuse of buildings
Focus on Interiors

Dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of

the degree of Bachelors in Architecture

Faculty of Architecture, Manipal University

ABSTRACT

Adaptation of existing buildings for new functions is not a new trend: the theoretical approach
towards adaptive reuse was established and theoretically formulated as early as at the
beginning of the 19th century.

This dissertation will explore an alternative strategy to a conservative adaptive reuse practice
for different building typologies that not only complements but challenges and reveals the
history through the unique character and the original intent of the design by preserving the
spirit of place that is more than often lost in the process of adaptation by considering the
meaning of place conveyed through its architectural expression. The adaptive reuse strategy
will be formulated and tested through case study examples.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I would like to thank my supervisors for their insight and guidance, for supporting me and
giving me confidence during the undertaking of this dissertation. Their knowledge and
patience added a great deal of value to my experience.

I would like to thank my family for their love and care throughout the entire process of the
dissertation and beyond.

Last but not the least, I would like to thank the one above all of us, God, for answering my
prayers and for giving me the strength throughout the process of this dissertation.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Key Terms/ Definitions ........................................................................................................................................... 5

Introduction ............................................................................................................................................................ 6
Background Information ..................................................................................................................................... 6
Problem Statement............................................................................................................................................. 6
Relevance............................................................................................................................................................ 6
Aim ...................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Research Questions ............................................................................................................................................ 7
Objectives ........................................................................................................................................................... 7
Methodology ...................................................................................................................................................... 7
Limitations .......................................................................................................................................................... 8
Literature Study ...................................................................................................................................................... 8
Adaptive Reuse ................................................................................................................................................... 8
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................... 8
Principles Of Adaptive Reuse .......................................................................................................................... 9
Advantages of adaptive reuse ........................................................................................................................ 9
Benefits of adaptive reuse .............................................................................................................................. 9
Criteria for adaptive reuse ............................................................................................................................ 10
Impact of adaptive reuse on city development ............................................................................................ 11
Adaptive reuse as an approach for preservation ......................................................................................... 11
International Existing Building Code ............................................................................................................. 12
Interior Spaces .................................................................................................................................................. 13
Space............................................................................................................................................................. 13
Interior Design .............................................................................................................................................. 14
Structural Systems ........................................................................................................................................ 17
Classification Of buildings ................................................................................................................................. 25
Age criteria for a building to be listed as an old building ................................................................................. 25
Interior Design - Trending Techniques of the 21st century in India .................................................................. 26
Case Study 1 ......................................................................................................................................................... 28
Residential house converted into a confectionary outlet ................................................................................ 28
Case Study 2 ......................................................................................................................................................... 32
Auditorium converted to a theatre/ cinema .................................................................................................... 32
Case Study 3 ......................................................................................................................................................... 35
School Of Arts converted into Retail And Hotel Accomodation ....................................................................... 35
Case study 4 .......................................................................................................................................................... 37
Industrial Building converted to a Community centre ..................................................................................... 37

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Case Study 5 ......................................................................................................................................................... 42
Church converted into a book store ................................................................................................................. 42
Analysis of adaptive reuse strategies through case study examples .................................................................... 44
Inferences and guidelines proposing possible reusability options ....................................................................... 46
Conclusion ............................................................................................................................................................ 48
References ............................................................................................................................................................ 50

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KEY TERMS/ DEFINITIO NS

Adaptive Reuse –

Adaptive reuse is 'conventionally defined as the process of adapting old structures for new
purposes. [1]

Sustainability –

Of, relating to, or being a method of harvesting or using a resource so that the resource
is not depleted or permanently damages. [2]

Reusability –

Capable of being used again or repeatedly. [3]

Interior design –

An area of study in the applied visual arts which prepares individuals to apply design
principles to the professional planning, designing, equipping and furnishing of residential
and commercial interior spaces. Includes instruction in computer applications drafting
and graphics techniques; principles of interior lighting, acoustics, systems integration
and colour coordination; furniture and furnishings; textiles and their finishing; the
history of interior design and period styles; basic structural design; building codes and
inspection regulations; and applications to office, hotel, factory, restaurant and housing
design. [4]

Integration –

An act or instance of combining into an integral whole. [5]

Within the context of this research project the word integration is used to reference the
way in which the processes of adaptive reuse and interior design can work together to
enhance and inform each other.

Strategy –

An adaptation or complex of adaptations (as of behaviour, metabolism, or structure) that

serves or appears to serve an important function in achieving evolutionary success. [6]

Preservation –

The act or process of keeping in perfect or unaltered condition. [7]

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INTRODUCTION

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Old buildings give neighbourhoods their distinct character and at the same time provide a
tangible connection to the past. And sometimes buildings often outlive their original
purposes. This results in the process of adaptive reuse of such buildings in order to make the
existing structure and surroundings active once again.

When the original use of a structure changes or is no longer required, architects have the
opportunity to change the primary function of the structure, while retaining some of the
existing architectural details that make the building unique.

The sustainable development and conservation of buildings in the city provide social,
economic, and environmental benefits to a community or area. The conservation of the built
structures not only contributes to the economic and environmental composition of a
community, but also to the social and cultural identity, which helps to create dynamic places,
and defines the ‘character, spirit and sense of a place’.

PROBLEM STATEMENT

As Modern architecture increasingly becomes part of the continuum of architectural history

and its buildings experience threats that range from material to functional obsolescence, also
demolition due to abandonment and lack of appreciation, concern for its preservation has
grown.

It is important to look at the development of the protection of the twentieth- Century built
fabric in order to determine the most appropriate way to continue to approach conservation
and reuse of these buildings.

Adaptive reuse is a strategy that has been used increasingly for protecting the old buildings
and sites; and while in most of the projects where adaptive reuse practice is being applied
the ‘character, spirit and sense’ of place is often missed.

RELEVANCE

It is a common and significant trend to create the specific character of spaces for human use
and enjoyment. As societies continue to re-examine their stock of existing buildings, re-
architecture becomes increasingly important to users seeking building conservation,
preservation, and adaptive re-use.

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AIM

To research on the various parameters of re-architecture in buildings with focus on interiors.

RESEARCH QUESTIONS

Why preserve? How can an existing building be adaptively reused in an environmentally,

socially and economical manner to achieve a viable development alternative to demolition and
replacement? What is the quantity of the defining elements that can be altered?

OBJECTIVES

 To investigate the relationship between new and old in the adapted and reused
buildings as applied to the surrounding society.
 To demonstrate that understanding of the original function, formal organization of
site, use of materials and sustainability of old buildings of various typologies.
 Exploring aspects of the trending techniques in 21st century architecture.
 To demonstrate the potential of adaptive reuse as a sustainable development option
and alternative to demolition and replacement.

METHODOLOGY

Exploring re- architecture in the past,

present and future through case studies,
articles, books and web.

Demographic and
Cultural Technical
sustainable
development development
development

Research on the thoughts of society and

trending techniques in context with re-
architecture

Detailed analysis of the different building

typologies and its reuse suitability
options.

Inferences and guidelines regarding the

transformation from old to new uses within
the interior spaces of the building.

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LIMITATIONS

• Availability of limited number of possible case studies. By using only a limited

quantity of case studies it is possible that the characteristics established from the
literature review, may not have been relevant in each particular case.

• This may result in characteristics appearing to be insignificant in site selection, while

they actually may be quite important to other projects.

• Also associated with the use of a limited number of case studies is the chance that
there may not be a proper representation of the types of building uses for adaptive
reuse projects in the market, which could result in characteristics of a certain nature
appearing more important.

• The research is also limited to the focus of development of interior spaces in adaptive
reuse of buildings.

LITERATURE STUDY

ADAPTIVE REUSE

INTRODUCTION
Adaptive reuse usually refers to the reuse of sites or buildings for purpose other than they
were originally built or designed for. These new uses can offer economic, social and cultural
benefits to their environments. As well, reuse is one approach to sustainability since it
conserves original durable building materials. Adaptive reuse deals with issues of
conservation and preservation of built form as well as strategies and policies. Once old
structures become unsuitable for their functional and programmatic requirements or has
remained unused, adaptive reuse becomes a sustainable option for reclamation of sites.

Adaptive reuse is defined as a revitalization strategy which employs a series of linked

procedures to plan for, inventory, acquire, manage and reuse surplus or abandoned real
estate. [8]

An imperative aspect of adaptive reuse projects is that the land or building which is being
considered for had a previous use that is no longer suitable or the use remains unused in
that type of building location, and therefore the potential value of the property will be
maximized by adapting the space. The adaptive reuse of buildings can include modifications
that are purely aesthetic, and are made to the building while retaining its structure and
character.

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PRINCIPLES OF ADAPTI VE REUSE [9]
The challenge comes in finding the desired balance between change, adaptation and
restoration to appease the stakeholders. In finding the right balance, adaptive reuse projects
should integrate five principles into the design as stated by:

• Perform the functions well for which they are redesigned

• Be long lasting and adaptable to new uses
• Respond well to their surroundings and enhance their context
• Have a visual coherence and create ‘delight’ for users and passers-by
• Be sustainable – non-polluting, energy efficient, easily accessible and have a minimal
environmental impact

ADVANTAGES OF ADAPTI VE REUSE [10]

 The ability to reuse the materials is mainly due to the fact that older buildings are
often constructed with materials of a higher grade and quality that therefore have a
longer lifespan than those used in current construction.
 Moreover, with the envelope of older buildings generally consisting of stronger
materials and containing numerous windows, the energy efficiency of the heating and
cooling can be improved.
 The social benefits of reuse projects include rejuvenating the historical and cultural
values of a building.
 During the time period when the building was originally in use, it served a specific
purpose in the neighbourhood to which people, in one way or another, were
connected. Older buildings have the ability to provide character to an area and create
a ‘sense of place’.

BENEFITS OF ADAPTIVE REUSE [11]

ENVIRONMENTAL
Adaptive reuse of buildings has a major role to play in the sustainable development.
Environmental benefits are more significant, as these buildings offer so much to the
landscape, identity and amenity of the communities they belong to.

One of the main environmental benefits of reusing buildings is the preservation of the original
building's "embodied energy". That is, the energy consumed by all of the processes associated
with the production of a building, from the attainment of natural resources to product
delivery, including mining, manufacturing of materials and equipment, transport and

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administrative functions. By reusing buildings, their embodied energy is retained, making
the project much more environmentally sustainable than entirely new construction.

SOCIAL
Keeping and reusing buildings has long-term benefits for the communities that value them.
Adaptive reuse can restore and maintain the significance of a building and help to ensure its
survival.

ECONOMIC
There are several financial savings and returns to be made from adaptive reuse of buildings.
Embodied energy savings from not demolishing a building will only increase with the
predicted rise of energy costs in the future.

While there is no definitive research on the market appeal of reused buildings, they have been
popular because of their originality and historic authenticity.

PROMOTING INNOVATION
The adaptation of buildings presents a genuine challenge to architects and designers to find
innovative solutions. As development pressures increase in our cities, more buildings are
being reused, producing some excellent examples of creative designs that retain its
significance.

CRITERIA FOR ADAPTIVE REUSE

 The societal value of a given site and building; that is, the importance to the
community of the use of a site by its members or visitors.
 The potential for the reuse of a particular site and building; the physical damage
sustained to the site and its support of future use, the character of the existing form
in terms of the proposed reuse.
 The historical importance of the site and building; in terms of both the physicality of
the street-scape and the area, as well as of the role of the site in the community’s
understanding of the past.
 The natural ecological conditions of the site and building; whether it is suitable
climatically or can support the proposed environmental work.

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IMPACT OF ADAPTIVE REUSE ON CITY DEVELOPMENT
Today, one controversial concern in urban expansion is the adaptive reuse of aged urban
industrial sites or structures. These sites are known as brownfields instead of Greenfields
due to the fact that they may contain chemical contamination; it is necessary to deal with
this problem before the structures can be put to residential or commercial use. A successful
adaptive reuse project can offer growth and also bring historical tourism to its city and new
life to its neighbourhood.

ADAPTIVE REUSE AS AN APPROACH FOR PRESERVATION

After review and evaluation of literature on the adaptive reuse of buildings, we can identify
three main strategies for conservation: typological, technical and strategic.

TYPOLOGICAL APPROACH
‘A new use for old buildings’ by Cantacuzino was the first publication on adaptive reuse. Its
introductory essay discusses the history of adaptive reuse and its role within current
conservation practice. It goes on to give a variety of examples from all over the world; these
examples are presented according to building type before adaptation. In contrast, many
publications only deal with reuse of one specific building type, e.g. religious buildings or
industrial buildings.

TECHNICAL APPROACH
Several sources have considered building adaptation as mainly a technical matter and also,
regarding how to decide on a new function for adapted buildings. ‘The rehabilitation and re-
use of old buildings’ by Highfield (1987) is a booklet in which the author first explains the
benefits of rehabilitation. He differentiates domestic and nondomestic buildings and in a
technical chapter he discusses the upgrading of fire resistance, thermal function, and
acoustic performance, elimination of damp infiltration, condensation and timber decay.

Also, a main portion of the work of Douglas is about technical characteristics of reuse.
Highfield and Douglas have discussed building protection but they approach the space only
as a shell instead of giving consideration to aspects of preservation and significance.

STRATEGIC APPROACH
The strategic approach concentrates on the processes and strategies used for adapting
important structures.

(1) building within

(2) building over
(3) building around

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 (4) building alongside
(5) recycling materials
(6) adapting to a new function
(7) building in the style of.

Three strategies for conversions: (1) intervention, (2) insertion and (3) installation.

INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE

Category Description
Repairs Restoration to good or sound condition of any part of an existing
building for the purpose of its maintenance.
Alterations Level 1 similar to a repair except newer materials, elements, equipment,
or fixtures replace the previous ones.
Level 2 includes reconfiguration of space, additions or elimination of
doors or windows, building system updates.
Level 3 where the work area, including al reconfigured spaces, exceeds
50% of the total building area.
Change of use Applies when new occupancy of an existing building is different from the
previously approved occupancy.
Additions Applies if the building is increased in area, number of stories, or height.
Historic Covers buildings that are listed in either a state or national register of
buildings historic places, designated by local or state agencies, certified as a
contributing resource within a historic district, or eligible for official
historic designation.
Relocated Applies if a building is moved from one site to another, regardless of
buildings distance.

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 INTERIOR SPACES [12]

SPACE

Space is a prime and ideal element in interior design. Through the volume of space we not
only move; we see forms, hear, feel, smell, etc. Space inherits the physical and aesthetic
characteristics of the elements in its field.

Space is not a material substance. It is characteristically formless and turgid. Universal space
has no defining borders. Once an element is placed in its field, however, a visual relationship
is established. As other elements are introduced into the field, multiple relationships are
established between the space and the elements, as well as among the elements themselves.
Space is formed by our perception of these relationships.

The geometric elements point, line, plane, and volume can be arranged to articulate and
define space. In architecture, these fundamental elements become linear columns and
beams, planar walls, floors, and roofs.

TWO COLUMNS
DEFINE A SPATIAL
MEMBRANE THROUGH
WHICH WE CAN PASS.

A COLUMN MARKS A WHEN SUPPORTING A

POINT IN SPACE AND BEAM, THE COLUMNS
MAKES IT VISIBLE IN DEFINE THE EDGES OF
THREE DIMENSIONS. A TRANSPARENT PLANE.

A WALL, AN OPAQUE
PLANE, MARKS OFF A
PORTION OF A ROOF PROVIDES
AMORPHOUS SPACE SHELTER FOR THE
AND SEPARATES VOLUME OF SPACE
HERE FROM THERE. BENEATH IT.

A FLOOR DEFINES A
FIELD OF SPACE
WITH TERRITORIAL
BOUNDARIES.

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Upon entering a building, we sense shelter and enclosure. This perception is due to the
bounding floor, wall, and ceiling planes of interior space. These are the architectural elements
that define the physical limits of rooms. They enclose space, clear its boundaries, and
separate it from adjoining interior spaces and the outside.

INTERIOR DESIGN
The interior is bound to its situation; it is enclosed within a building. The particular location
of the interior has an influence upon the design that often far outweighs other considerations.

It is an interdisciplinary practice that is concerned with the creation of a range of interior

environments that articulate identity and atmosphere through the manipulation of spatial
volume, placement of specific elements and furniture, and treatment of surfaces.

The reuse of existing buildings is a subject that is central to the evolution of the urban
environment and issues of conservation and sustainability have become vital to the
development of cities.

As the approach to the design and the use of the urban environment has changed, so the
prevailing attitude towards building reuse has also altered.

Interior decoration is the art of decorating interior spaces or rooms to impart a particular
character that functions well with the existing architecture. Interior decoration is concerned
with such issues such as surface pattern, ornament, furniture, soft furnishings, lighting and
materials. It generally deals with minor structural changes to the existing building.

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CRITERIA CONCERNED

1. Function and purpose: it should satisfy the function thus meeting the purpose.
2. Utility, Economy and Sustainability: this is required during selection and appropriate
use of material.
3. Form and style: design should be aesthetic and proportional.
4. Image and meaning: character of design should be defined once the users utilise the
space.

SHAPING THE INTERIOR SPACES

Although a building’s structural system sets up the basic form and pattern of its interior
spaces, these spaces are ultimately structured by the elements of interior design.

The term “structure” refers to the selection and arrangement of interior elements such that
their visual relationships define and organize the interior space of a room.

Non-load-bearing partitions and suspended ceilings are often used to define or modify space
within the structural framework or shell of a building.

The colour, texture, and pattern of wall, floor, and ceiling surfaces affect our perception of
their relative positions in space and our awareness of the room’s dimensions, scale, and
proportion.

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Within a large space, the form and arrangement of furnishings can divide areas, provide a
sense of enclosure, and define spatial patterns.

Lighting, and the light and dark patterns it creates, can call our attention to one area of a
room, and thereby create divisions of space. Even the acoustic nature of a room’s surfaces
can affect the boundaries of a space.

Finally, space is structured by the way we use it. The nature of our activities and the rituals
we develop in performing them influence how we plan, arrange, and organize interior space.

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 STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS

INTRODUCTION

IT IS THE VERTICAL EXTENSION OF THE

FOUNDATION SYSTEM AND CONSISTS OF
THE COLUMNS, BEAMS, AND LOAD-
BEARING WALLS THAT SUPPORT THE
FLOOR AND ROOF STRUCTURES.

IT IS THE SUBSTRUCTURE THAT FORMS THE

BASE OF A BUILDING, ANCHORS IT FIRMLY
TO THE GROUND, AND SUPPORTS THE
BUILDING ELEMENTS AND SPACES ABOVE

These systems must work together to support the following types of loads:

IS A STATIC VERTICAL
WHICH IS A LOAD IS COMPRISING THE
MOVABLE OR WEIGHT OF ITS
MOVING LOAD STRUCTURAL AND NON-
COMPRISING THE STRUCTURAL
WEIGHT OF ITS COMPONENTS, INCLUDING
OCCUPANTS AND ANY EQUIPMENT
ANY MOBILE PERMANENTLY ATTACHED
EQUIPMENT AND TO THE STRUCTURE.
FURNISHINGS.

DYNAMIC LOADS

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 A building’s structural system is formed according to the geometry of its materials and the
way they react to the forces applied to them. This structural form and geometry, in turn,
influence the dimensions, proportion, and arrangement of the interior spaces within the
building volume.

The two basic linear structural elements are the column and the beam.

A BEAM IS A HORIZONTAL MEMBER THAT TRANSMITS FORCES PERPENDICULAR TO ITSELF ALONG ITS
LENGTH TO ITS SUPPORTS. IT IS SUBJECT TO BENDING AND DEFLECTION, WHICH RESULT IN AN INTERNAL
COMBINATION OF COMPRESSIVE AND TENSILE STRESSES. THESE STRESSES ARE PROPORTIONALLY
GREATER ALONG THE UPPER AND LOWER REGION OF A BEAM’S CROSS SECTION. INCREASING DEPTH AND
PLACING MATERIAL WHERE STRESSES ARE GREATEST OPTIMIZE A BEAM’S PERFORMANCE.

A COLUMN IS A VERTICAL SUPPORT THAT

TRANSMITS COMPRESSIVE FORCES DOWNWARD
ALONG ITS SHAFT.
THE THICKER A COLUMN IS IN RELATION TO ITS
HEIGHT, THE GREATER ITS LOAD-BEARING
CAPACITY AND ITS ABILITY TO RESIST BUCKLING
RESULTING FROM OFF-CENTRE LOADING OR
LATERAL FORCES.

LINEAR STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS

BEAMS MAKE STRUCTURAL AND VISUAL

CONNECTIONS ACROSS SPACE
BETWEEN THEIR SUPPORTS.

COLUMNS MARK POINTS IN SPACE AND

PROVIDE A MEASURE FOR ITS
HORIZONTAL DIVISIONS.

A LINEAR STRUCTURAL SYSTEM MAY

SUGGEST A GRID LAYOUT OF
REPETITIVE SPACES.

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  A linear structural system may consist of a grid layout of repetitive spaces, but floor,
wall, and ceiling planes are necessary for the support and enclosure of interior space.
Floor and ceiling planes may consist of planar slabs or an arrangement of girders and
beams and joists.

 Walls and partitions need not always be load-bearing and do not have to be aligned
with the columns of a structural frame.

 Linear structural systems are extremely flexible. They allow for growth, change, and
the adaptation of individual spaces to their specific uses.

PLANAR STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS

The two principal types of planar structural elements are the load-bearing wall and the
horizontal slab.

A BEARING WALL ACTS AS A

LONG, THIN COLUMN IN
TRANSMITTING COMPRESSIVE
FORCES TO ITS SUPPORT OR
FOUNDATION.

ANY OPENING MUST BE

SPANNED BY AN ARCH OR A
SHORT BEAM CALLED A
LINTEL TO SUPPORT THE WALL
LOAD ABOVE AND ALLOW
COMPRESSIVE STRESSES TO
FLOW AROUND THE OPENING
TO ADJACENT SECTIONS OF
THE WALL.

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 Advantages of planar systems over linear systems: Linear structural elements only outline
the edges of spatial volumes, whereas planar elements such as bearing walls define the
physical limits of space. They provide a real sense of enclosure and privacy as well and serve
as obstacles against the elements.

A slab is a horizontal, rigid plate. It supports both concentrated and distributed loads because
the resulting stresses that can fan out across the plane of the slab.

VOLUMETRIC STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS

A VOLUMETRIC STRUCTURAL
SYSTEM CONSISTS OF A THREE
DIMENSIONAL MASS THAT
OCCUPIES THE VOID OF SPACE.

INTERIOR SPACE

At a small scale, stone and clay masonry units can be seen to be volumetric structural
elements.

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SPATIAL FORM

Interior spaces are defined by a building’s structural system, containing wall and ceiling
planes, and related to other spaces by windows and doorways.

Either the structure or the space can dominate this relationship. Whichever appears to
dominate, we should be able to perceive the other as an equal partner in the relationship.

IT NOT ONLY OCCUPIES SPACE, IT ALSO

CREATES A SPATIAL RELATIONSHIP
BETWEEN ITSELF AND THE
SURROUNDING ENCLOSURE

SPATIAL DIMENSIONS

The dimensions of interior space, like spatial form, are directly related to the nature of a
building’s structural system—the strength of its materials and the size and spacing of its
members.

Wood or steel beams and concrete slabs can span up to 30 feet (9 m). Wood or steel trusses
can span even farther, up to 100 feet (30 m) or more.

Longer roof spans are possible with space frames and a variety of curved structures, such as
domes, suspension systems, and membranes supported by air pressure.

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 HUMAN DIMENSIONS
Our body dimensions, and the way we move through and perceive space, are prime
determinants of architectural and interior design.

THE VERTICAL DIMENSION OF SPACE

THE THIRD DIMENSION OF INTERIOR

SPACE, ITS HEIGHT, IS ESTABLISHED
BY THE CEILING PLANE.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE

HEIGHT OF A SPACE AND OUR OWN
BODY HEIGHT CAN BE SENSED.

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SPATIAL TRANSITIONS

OPENINGS CREATED WITHIN THE

WALL PLANE FOR WINDOWS AND
DOORWAYS RE-ESTABLISH
CONTACT WITH THE SURROUNDING
SPACES FROM WHICH THE ROOM
WAS ORIGINALLY CUT.

THE WALL PLANE, BEING PERPENDICULAR TO OUR NORMAL LINE

OF SIGHT, HAS THE GREATEST EFFECT AS A SPATIAL BOUNDARY.

INDIVIDUAL PLACES ARE

DESIGNED AND FORMED AS THEY
ARE FUNCTIONALLY RELATED TO
ONE ANOTHER WITH COMMON
PEOPLE AND ACTIVITIES.

Interior spaces are related to one another is determined not only by their relative position in
a building’s spatial pattern, but also by the nature of the spaces that connect them and the
boundaries they have in common.

MODIFYING SPACE

The architectural planning and design for a new building take into account the nature of the
activities to be housed; the spatial requirements for form, scale, and light; and the desired
relationships among the various interior spaces.
Whereas an existing building is to be used for activities other than those for which it was
originally intended, however, activity requirements must be matched with the existing
conditions. Where there is a mismatch, an alteration of the existing spaces is required.
23
Two major types of alteration can be considered:
1. It involves structural changes in the boundaries of interior space and is more
permanent in nature than the second.
2. The second type of alteration involves non-structural modifications and enhancement
accomplished through interior design.

A structural change may involve removing or adding walls to alter the shape and rearrange
the pattern of existing spaces, or to add on new space. When doing so, it is vital to understand
the distinction between load-bearing walls and non-loadbearing partitions.

DOORWAY MAY BE MOVED OR ADDED

FOR BETTER ACCESS TO A ROOM SPACE
OR TO IMPROVE THE MOVEMENT PATHS
WITHIN THE SPACE.

A LARGE DOORWAY MAY BE CREATED TO

MERGE TWO ADJACENT SPACES.

WINDOWS MAY BE ENLARGED OR ADDED

FOR BETTER DAY LIGHTING OR TO TAKE
ADVANTAGE OF A VIEW.

WHEN ADDING A
STAIRWAY, SKYLIGHT OR
CREATING VERTICAL
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN
LEVELS, STRUCTURAL
CHANGES NEED TO BE
DONE.

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CLASSIFICATION OF BUILDINGS: [13]

INDUSTRIAL Factory
Warehouse
Barn
Granary
Mills
Brewery
Malting
Mining site
Railway station
RELIGIOUS Church & Chapel
Convent
Beguinage
Presbytery
SEMI-PUBLIC BUILDINGS City Hall
Museum
School
Hospital
Observatory
Court House
Office
Library
Theatre
Hotel & Hostel
Post Office
RESIDENTIAL Castle
Country house
Farm
Town house
MILITARY Fortress
Barrack
Gate
COMMERCIAL Craft shop
Department store
Exchange
Bank
Market
Boutique
Passage

AGE CRITERIA FOR A BUILDING TO BE LIS TED AS AN OLD BUILDING [14]

 Age and rarity: most buildings built before 1700 which survive in anything like their
original condition are listed, as are most of those built between 1700 and 1840

 The criteria become tighter with time, so that buildings built within the last 30 years
have to be exceptionally important to be listed, and under threat too. A building has
to be over 10 years old to be eligible for listing

25
  Architectural interest: buildings which are nationally important for the interest of
their architectural design, decoration and craftsmanship; also important examples
of particular building types and techniques.

 Historic interest: this includes buildings which illustrate important aspects of the
nation's social, economic, cultural or military history.

 Close historical association with nationally important people or events.

 Group value, especially where buildings are part of an important architectural or

historic group or are a fine example of planning (such as squares, terraces and model
villages).

INTERIOR DESIGN - TRENDING TECHNIQUES OF THE 21 S T CENTURY IN INDIA

Residential trend 1:
 This latest trend is a definite shift from the Zen philosophy that ruled design trends
in the past five years. Minimalism is out, Maxmalism is in. Gone are the days of
Spartan furniture, muted tones and unembellished interiors. Today, people love
showcasing their new stature in society, and opulence and luxury are the key words
in residential design.
 The classical opulent styles of the bygone eras have made a comeback with new
contemporary modern overtones. The emphasis is on detailing, and accessories play
a very important role in completing the look. Chandeliers, artwork along with the
other embellishments such as inlay works and cutwork jali screens are popular.
 Bold patterns with baroque influences are the newest rage, and are reflected in the
printed wallpapers, upholstery, chandeliers, mouldings and mirrors.
 Darker hues and English colour tones such as khaki and indigo as well as shades in
greys, beiges and even blacks are juxtaposed with natural materials such as
sandblasted stones and dark woods like walnuts and teaks.

Residential trend 2:
 The use of wooden flooring creates a sense of warmth within the house. The dark
woods used for the loose furniture and cabinets further add to creating a warm and
cosy interior.
 Crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceilings in focal positions such as over the dining
table and in the living room are eye-catching and further emphasize the lavishness of
the décor.
26
  Comfortable and rich furnishings in bold patterned textiles and upholsteries add
richness to the house.
 Wallpaper in a bold print on a dark hue and colours such as blues in the furnishings
and reds in the accessories further accentuate the space.

Retail Trend 1:
 To create a sense of “premium-ness” and edginess and build a sense of mystery.
 The awareness of the brand’s heritage value or the sold goods should be used to create
Interaction Design. This allows the customer to interact with the store and create
experiences while being educated.

27
CASE STUDY 1

RESIDENTIAL HOUSE CONVERTED INTO A CONFECTIONARY OUTLET

Location: Arya Samaj Road, Mallikatte, Kadri, Mangalore, KA 575002, India

Age: 150 years old
Owned by: Mr. Eric Sequiera
Area of plot: 53 cents

Significance:
This house was built around 150 years ago that belonged to a couple.
It represented an age of stone and rich wooden furniture and carvings portraying traditional
architecture of Mangalore.
It contains an entrance porch, 2 bedrooms, living room, kitchen, bathroom and storage
spaces.

Original Use: Residence

Current Use: Confectionary outlet – Cream Caramel

ZONING OF THE OLD AND NEW USE OF THE BUILDING

Residential Home Confectionery outlet

28
 ORIGINAL PLAN WITH FURNITURE LAYOUT

THE FURNITURE WAS

CHANGED IN ALL SPACES
IN ORDER TO MEET THE
REQUIREMENTS OF THE
CONFECTIONERY OUTLET

CURRENT PLAN WITH FURNITURE LAYOUT

THE BAKING AND MIXING

TO THE REAR SIDE OF THE
AREA IS NOW CONVERTED
BUILDING, THE
INTO A LARGE ROOM AND
BATHROOM WAS
ROOFED WITH ALUMINIUM
CONVERTED INTO STAFF
SHEET CONTAINING
QUARTERS AND AN
HEAVY MACHINERY FOR
ADDITIONAL TOILET WAS
THE PURPOSE
CONSTRUCTED ADJACENT
TO IT
THE ENTRANCE TO THE
BAKING AREA WAS
MODIFIED BY CREATING A THE LOFT WAS
SET OF STAIRS INSTEAD TRANSFORMED INTO A
OF THE PREVIOUS RAMP FALSE CEILING DUE TO
EXCESSIVE HEIGHT.

THE WORKSPACE SLAP

WAS RE-CONSTRUCTED
TO A HEIGHT OF 1 METRE
AS THE PREVIOUS ONE
WAS TOO LOW TO WORK
WITH.

THE WINDOW WAS

ENLARGED IN ORDER TO
LET IN MAXIMUM LIGHT
AND VENTILATION.

29
 ROOF PLAN

TERRACOTTA RED OXIDE

TILES FLOORING
FLOORING

ORIGINAL CURRENT

30
 VIEW FROM ROAD

LEFT SIDE VIEW REAR VIEW

ANALYSIS:
Parameters covered:
 Adaptive Reuse - the new use is successfully functioning within the building
utilising the same spaces for closely related functions of the previous use. It blends
with the initial feel of the place being an auditorium providing entertainment to the
users then and even now as a theatre.
 Space - modification of space is done in terms of addition of spaces based on
requirements of the new use. Lighting fixtures were retained as it was sufficient.
 Structural Systems – insertion of vertical transportation and excavation to create
spaces in the basement did not hinder the structural frame as it was just used as
a continuation below ground level.

31
CASE STUDY 2

AUDITORIUM CONVERTED TO A THEATRE/ CINEMA

Location: 8-10 Perkins Street, Newcastle.

Date Built: 1890-1891
Architect: James Henderson

Significance:
 The Victoria Theatre is a building of State importance. It is the oldest theatre building
still standing in New South Wales.
 It represents an age of silent pictures, vaudeville and early legitimate theatre that no
other building can offer in this State - being over 100 years old.
 It is virtually intact, except for vestibule/back stalls alterations.
 The theatre represents an 1891 facade, an auditorium that is both 1891 and 1921,
with extensive backstage facilities.

Original Use: Auditorium

Current Use: Disused

Adaptive reuse conversion:

Theatre/Cinema

500-600 SEAT THEATRE USED FOR FILM

SCREENINGS.

32
 THE TOP IS TERMINATED BY A RICH
BALUSTRADED PARAPET, WHICH FEATURES A
CENTRAL TABLET WITH THE BUILDING'S NAME IN
MOULDED LETTERING.

FINISHED IN SMOOTH
AND MODELLED STUCCO
WITH SOME CLASSICAL
DECORATIVE ELEMENTS.
THE FAÇADE FORMS THE
FRONT TO A PLAINLY
FINISHED LARGE
AUDITORIUM.

TWO LEVELS ABOVE THE

AWNING ARE DEFINED BY EXCAVATING TO INCREASE THE
DEEP STRING COURSES AVAILABLE AREA FOR BACK OF HOUSE
AS PER THE REGULATIONS THE
AND DIVIDED INTO BAYS FACILITIES AND AMENITIES AND
FOYER NEEEDS TO BE ENLARGED,
BY PILASTERS. INSERTING A LIFT TO SERVICE THE MULTI-
ADDITIONAL AMENITIES AND BACK
OF HOUSE FACILITIES WAS LEVEL FOYER.
PROVIDED.

33
ANALYSIS:
Parameters covered:
 Adaptive Reuse - the new use is successfully functioning within the building utilising
the same spaces for closely related functions of the previous use. It blends with the
initial feel of the place being an auditorium providing entertainment to the users then
and even now as a theatre.
 Space - modification of space is done in terms of addition of spaces based on
requirements of the new use. Lighting fixtures were retained as it was sufficient.
 Structural Systems – insertion of vertical transportation and excavation to create
spaces in the basement did not hinder the structural frame as it was just used as a
continuation below ground level.

34
CASE STUDY 3

SCHOOL OF ARTS CONVE RTED INTO RETAIL AND HOTEL ACCOMODATION

Location: 182-8 Hunter Street, Newcastle.

Owner: Newcastle City Council Date
Architect: 1885 additions by Frederick Menkins.

Significance:
 Forms part of the Hunter Street Mall Group. Historically important due to its civic
association as the earliest remaining building constructed for Newcastle Borough
Council.
 Important townscape element in association with extensions by Menkens, in 1885.
(Newcastle Urban Design and Heritage Study)

Original Use: School of Arts

Current Use: Retail and Youth Community Centre known as The Loft

Adaptive reuse investigated: Retail and Hotel Accommodation

35
TWO STOREY
RENDERED AND
PAINTED BRICK
BUILDING WITH ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS
SIMPLE FACADE INCLUDE ROUND ARCHED
WINDOWS, BRICK
PILASTERS, CORNICES,
VENETIAN WINDOWS AND
CORINTHIAN COLUMNS

HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
ADDITION

CONFERENCE FACILITIES

RETAIL, HOTEL RECEPTION,

RESTAURANTS AND BACK
OF HOUSE FACILITIES ARE
LOCATED ON THE GROUND
FLOOR

36
CASE STUDY 4

INDUSTRIAL BUILDING CONVERTED TO A COMMUNITY CENTRE

Significance:
It was initially the American shredder corp. / steinle turret machine co.
 Period of historic significance 1903- 1920
 Original building constructed 1903
 Agricultural machinery – three years
 Metal milling machinery
 Business and building expansions

Original Use: Industrial

Adaptive reuse investigated: Goodman Community centre

This figure shows the various

constructions that occurred in the
building.

KUPFER IRON WORKS 1974

 1940 - 1985
 STRUCTURAL STEEL
FABRICATION
 CONSTRUCTED GANTRY 1942
 INSULCRETE SIDING 1980’S
 BUILDING ABANDONED 2003

37
ELEVATIONS

38
 PRESENT ELEVATIONS

Strategies used:
 Secretary of Interior’s Standards
 Formation of new windows
 Eliminate infiltration
 Insulate walls where it was feasible
Design Challenges:
 Structural abundance
 HVAC crossovers and distribution
 Column bases
 Lighting
 Expression of clerestory
 Accommodate variety of users
 Separation without segregation
 Indirect, multi-level lighting
 Waterless, dual-flush fixtures
 Bio retention rain garden
 Use of Renewable energy

39
OLD NEW

40
GREEN ELEMENTS USED

41
CASE STUDY 5

CHURCH CONVERTED INT O A BOOK STORE

Location: Maastricht, Netherlands, Europe

Architect (book installation): Merkx + Girod
Area: 750 sq. m
Significance:
 Consecrated in 1294
 The building was once part of a friary knocked about over the centuries by various
invading armies.
 It was being used by the citizens of Maastricht as an indoor bike pound.
 Later, turned into a warehouse.
 Contained stone vaults and faded remains of ceiling paintings from around
1337; and others by the artist Jan Vessens, depicting saints and sinners and episodes
from the Bible, dating from 1619.
2
1
[
G
r
a
b

y
o
u
r

r
e
a 3
d 1
e [
r G
’ r
s a1
b[
a G
t yr
t oa
e ub
n r
t y
i ro
o eu
n ar
d
w er
i re
t ’a
h sd
e
a ar
t’
g ts
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it

1. Installation of a towering, three-storey black steel book stack in the long, high nave.
2. Installation of cafe in the choir area. The central feature of the cafe is a long,
cruciform table lit by a lamp suspended from the stone vaults in the guise of a
modern halo.

42
 3. Popular books are kept on lower shelves, while academic, esoteric and theological
works are kept closer to heaven. These are reached by stairs within the sleek, well-
made book stack, although there is also a lift.
Parameters covered:
Adaptive Reuse - the church being a monument, needed to be kept as an open space as
much as possible hence, introducing the two floors asymmetrically gave respect and
emphasis to the structure. The new use blended well in the structure due to matching space
requirements for both old and new uses.
Space - The scale of the black steel book stack was necessary because a spread of shelves
along and across the nave would have detracted from its character; and also Selexyz needed
1,200 sq. m of selling space to make the shop's finances add up. Another intervention was
the lighting plan that was integrated with the furniture or the volume to avoid pollution in
the interiors.
Structural Systems – original structural frame was untouched; addition of the book stack
to two floors above was done in order to have more horizontal free space on ground level.

43
ANALYSIS OF ADAPTIVE REUSE STRATEGIES THROUGH CASE STUDY EXAMPLES

• For the typological approach, it presents building types that have received major
attention (e.g. industrial buildings, residential buildings and churches) as well as
those which have been researched to a more limited degree (e.g. religious buildings
other than churches, military buildings and commercial buildings). Also, detailed
research on parameters in adaptive reuse and interior spaces have been noted in the
various cases.

• For the technical approach, it was clear that there are many strategies to deal with
specific technical issues. The available standard works on construction still have
significance in relation to the adaptation of existing buildings.

• In the case of the strategic approach, there is an overlap among the categories offered.
Also, information on a theoretical strategy that would compare and evaluate various
historic theories on architecture and preservation through consideration of adaptive
use is scarce.

• Studies that could be categorized as taking a strategic approach tend to deal more
with ‘sense of place’ than ones that take a typological or technical approach.

• In the case of buildings which are not protected because they lack status as
monuments, the owners and developers are mainly concerned with their socio-
economic value.

Types of Buildings: (Based on existing case studies)

Category Typology Possible Conversions done

Industrial Factory Apartments

Multi-use Warehouse Religious
Large Industrial site Offices
Commercial
Religious Church and chapel Residential
Convent Old age homes
Offices
Commercial
Institutional
Art & cultural activities

(Semi-)public buildings City Hall Residential

Post Office
Railway station
Hotel

44
Residential buildings Castle Semi-public
Country house
Farm
Town house

Military buildings Fortresses Public

Barracks

Buildings with initial Ground floor shopping - Offices

retail functions upper floors dwelling
Passage
Department store

45
INFERENCES AND GUIDELINES PROPOSING POSSIBLE REUSABILITY OPTIONS

INFERENCES:
• Redevelopment beyond the envelope of many buildings is possible without
compromising the significance of the fabric through the judicious use of setbacks and
skilful design of new contemporary facades and insertions to complement, but not
mimic heritage and historical details.
• The preservation of buildings enables the streetscape to retain its significance,
character, history and scale whilst allowing the buildings to have a new life within the
contemporary economic and social context.
• The new uses that have been adapted to the buildings illustrated in the case studies
have been well thought in terms of structural changes, interior design, suitability to
society and environment
• While changing the use of the building, there is no such percentage or maxima as to
how much of the interiors can be altered. It depends on the specific use requirements,
people, economy, and level of modification.

GUIDELINES:
(1) Reuse Strategy
 Typological: Before the reuse of the building, Literature study about
the original and new use to be incorporated is a must.
 Technical: Structural study and analysis of the building along with
dimensions should be known and noted.
 Strategical: The building along with its surroundings should be taken
into context thus reusing the building while keeping in mind the
‘character, sense and spirit’ of the place.
(2) Use and function
Choice of use and function depends on location, building typology,
environmental factors, social factors, and economic factors.
 Environmental factors include site features, climatic conditions and
embodied energy of existing building.
 Social factors include the needs and wants of the society and
preservation of the character, sense and spirit of the place.
 Economic factors include the budget for reuse, sustainable
construction and durability.
(3) Quality of Design
It should be suitable to the surroundings and the society, innovative designs,
preservation of the historical and heritage elements should be carried out. It
should also be structurally sound and strong to be durable.
46
(4) Materials and technology
Use of old and new can be merged resulting in innovative techniques.
The materials of the original structure should be ideally maintained and used
unless it is a dilapidated structure.
The new additions and preservation to be done can be a combination of old
and new techniques and materials in the construction.
(5) Flexibility and reversibility
The building should be able to undergo future changes and adapt to other
reusability options in case change of use needs to be done due to society
demands or economic demands.

47
CONCLUSION

This research strives to offer possible strategies for the successful adaptive reuse of buildings.
It demonstrates that it is not only important to retain and restore but also to adapt them so
as to give them new uses that are similar to their original intents.

Adaptations for contemporary use have resulted in new forms based on old forms but adapted
for contemporary use. The research also focuses on preserving the spirit of existing form and
space; it introduces additional spaces that are necessary for modern use.

For instance, the original building envelope and window frame are preserved and upgraded
by the addition of insulation in the walls and double glazing for the windows. This material
preservation of elements maintains the original characteristics of a building. The
contemporary material that has been used in the new addition may be an updated version of
the old; it therefore preserves historical identity at the same time as it is the product of
contemporary technology.

Finally this process looks at long-term feasibility for a neighbourhood; specifically, it proposes
the transformation of uses for different building typologies.

Below listed are the possible options for change in use based on the building typology:

Residential building conversions:

 Flats
 Two - Three Storey Town Houses
 Office block
 Educational building
 Retail units
 Mixed use development containing offices/shops/flats.

Religious building conversions:

 Monumental preservation
 Industrial use
 Library
 Residential
 Community centre
 Old aged homes
 Museum

48
Industrial building conversions:
 Monumental preservation
 Museum
 Residential use
 Offices and hotels
 Sports centre
 Art galleries

Office building conversions:

 Retail shops
 Residential
 Sports centre
 Commercial

49
REFERENCES

[1] WordPress, “Adaptivereuse.net,” [Online]. Available: http://adaptivereuse.net/about‐adaptive‐reuse/.

[2] T. Williamson, A. Radford and H. Bennetts, Understanding Sustainable Architecture, London: Spon Press,
2003.

[3] M.-W. C. Dictionary, “Merriam-Webster.com,” [Online]. Available: http://www.merriam-

webster.com/dictionary/reusable.

[4] M. J. Skene, M. L. Belding, P. I. Bunting and M. H. D. Beer, “Classification of Instructional Programs,”

National Center for Education , USA, 2000.

[5] “Dictionary.com,” [Online]. Available: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/integration.

[6] M.-W. C. Dictionary, “Merriam-Webster.com,” [Online]. Available: http://www.merriam-

webster.com/dictionary/strategy.

[7] Farlex, “TheFreeDictionary.com,” [Online]. Available: http://www.thefreedictionary.com/preservation.

[8] Burchell, R.W. and Listokin, in The adaptive reuse handbook: procedures to inventory, control, manage,
and reemploy surplus municipal properties, New Brunswick, N.J, Rutgers University, Center for Urban
Policy Research., 1981.

[9] Loures, L. and Panagopoulos, in Sustainable Development and Planning III, Southampton, UK, WIT Press,
2007.

[10] Langston, C., Wong, F.K.W., Hui, E.C.M and Shen, in Strategic assessment of building adaptive reuse
opportunities in Hong Kong. Building and Environment, 2007.

[11] C. o. Australia, in Adaptive Reuse: Preserving our past, building our future, Australia, 2004.

[12] C. B. Francis D. K. Ching, in Interior Design Illustrated, New Jersey, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2012.

[13] S. Cantacuzino, in ReArchitecture: Old buildings/ New Uses, New York, Abbeville Press Publishers, 1989.

[14] in Principles of Selection for Listing , 2010.

50