Adaptive Re-Use
We understand that existing buildings have value and are worth preserving
Our collective needs are always changing and with it, the way we use buildings. Older buildings have many stories to tell, and if we can make our designs receptive to them, we can deepen our connection to places and the people that have inhabited them over the years.
Through carefully considered modernizations, that preserve existing building fabric and integrate modern systems, older buildings can continue to serve for generations to come. Our approach to adaptive re-use is built on an appreciation of historic preservation methods, an understanding of older construction methods and materials, and a creative approach that seeks to enhance an existing structure through a new use.
Investigation / Discovery:
Adapting existing buildings requires interest and investigation. Things are not as predictable in existing buildings and we must know what to look for, where to look, and what tools might be needed in this investigation. You need a keen eye to observe the clues and conditions that may not be apparent at first glance. There is often an aspect of historic preservation to adaptive re-use which requires the architect to sift through past modifications to distill what is most relevant and valuable to preserve.
Analysis / Synthesis:
Often the raw data that we collect in an investigation will need further consideration before a proposed solution can be arrived at. As architects this often means drawing and synthesizing what we’ve seen. Once we have assembled the fragments of observations together, we are able to see how everything relates, find the best way to integrate new systems and features, as well as identifying what are the important features of what is there now and how it can best contribute to a new use.
Adaptation / Transformation:
As building science, technology, and culture at-large progress forward we must continue to adapt older buildings so they can remain comfortable, efficient, and relevant to how people are living now.
