by Kelly Wenner
Adaptive reuse is reusing an old site or building for a purpose other than that for which it was built or designed. Frequently reused buildings include industrial buildings and community buildings such as churches or community centers. While usually seen as a way to reduce urban sprawl and environmental impact, adaptive reuse also has its controversies. A short article from College Planning and Management considers the pros and cons of adaptive reuse, and examines what should be considered when deciding between “reuse†versus “build new.†Colleges often have limited facilities maintenance and renovation funds, and adaptive reuse can become an option for both maximizing those funds and for creating a teaching moment on the concepts of sustainability and smart growth.… Read the rest
