The high-performance retrofit of an existing building is more difficult than building new because the structural system, orientation, and massing—the first tools in the architect’s kit—have already been used.
Moreover, the deep affection often associated with existing structures that possess cultural and historic significance presents even more resistance to high-performance design—the fear that the process will require massive modification of “untouchable” community assets.
Yet this critical segment of the built environment represents a vast reservoir of sustainable potential and carries with it our society’s multi-generational heritage.
After reading this article, you should be able to:
+ Assess the sustainable potentials and limitations of an existing building of historic/cultural significance.
+ Prioritize the overall active and passive design strategies within the physical limitations and the historic/community values of a given setting.
+ Discuss a daylighting strategy that combines the use of direct and diffuse daylight and thermal loading attuned to functional need.
+ Anticipate the future life of the building in transition to sustainability and generate an “anticipatory” design to support the implementation of that vision.
TAKE THIS FREE AIA COURSE AT BDCUNIVERSITY.COM
Related Stories
Reconstruction & Renovation | Apr 28, 2021
SOM completes Willis Tower Skydeck transformation
The renovation includes a new exhibition and a reimagined observation deck.
Adaptive Reuse | Apr 15, 2021
The Weekly Show, Apr 15, 2021: The ins and outs of adaptive reuse, and sensors for real-time construction monitoring
This week on The Weekly show, BD+C editors speak with AEC industry leaders from PBDW Architects and Wohlsen Construction about what makes adaptive reuse projects successful, and sensors for real-time monitoring of concrete construction.
Reconstruction & Renovation | Feb 18, 2021
Connecticut’s Swift Gold Leaf Factory becomes a community job incubator
Bruner/Cott Architects designed the project.
Hotel Facilities | Feb 16, 2021
Santa Monica Professional Building restored into a modern hotel
Howard Laks Architects designed the project.
Reconstruction Awards | Feb 5, 2021
The historic Maryland Theatre is reborn in Hagerstown
The Maryland Theatre project has won a Bronze Award in BD+C's 2020 Reconstruction Awards.
Reconstruction Awards | Jan 30, 2021
Repositioning of historic Sears Roebuck warehouse enlivens Boston’s Fenway neighborhood
Developer Samuels & Associates asked Elkus Manfredi Architects to reimagine the former Sears Roebuck & Co. warehouse in Boston’s Fenway neighborhood as a dynamic mixed-use destination that complements the high-energy Fenway neighborhood while honoring the building’s historical significance.
Multifamily Housing | Jan 20, 2021
Abandoned Miami hospital gets third life as waterfront condo development
The 1920s King Cole Hotel becomes the Ritz-Carlton Residences Miami in the largest residential adaptive reuse project in South Florida.
Adaptive Reuse | Dec 17, 2020
A train engine repair building is turned into an innovation center that’s part of a massive riverfront redevelopment in Pittsburgh
The adaptive reuse of the Roundhouse is the latest step forward for Hazelwood Green.
