What are the best strategies for repurposing abandoned buildings in urban regeneration?

1 Assess the potential

The first step in repurposing an abandoned building is to assess its potential for reuse. This involves evaluating its physical condition, structural integrity, architectural features, and historical significance. Some buildings may be too damaged, unsafe, or obsolete to be renovated, and may need to be demolished or replaced. Others may have unique characteristics, such as heritage value, cultural relevance, or aesthetic appeal, that make them worth preserving and adapting. The potential for reuse also depends on the location, accessibility, and demand for the building and its surrounding area.

3 Design the adaptation

The third step in repurposing an abandoned building is to design the adaptation that optimizes its function and potential. This involves finding the balance between preserving the original features and identity of the building, and introducing new elements and modifications that enhance its performance and usability. The design should follow the principles of adaptive reuse, which include respecting the context, minimizing the environmental footprint, maximizing the social benefits, and ensuring the economic viability. The design should also involve the participation and consultation of the users and the community, to ensure their needs and preferences are met.

4 Implement the project

The fourth step in repurposing an abandoned building is to implement the project according to the design and the plan. This involves obtaining the necessary permits, approvals, and funding, as well as hiring the contractors, suppliers, and managers. The implementation should follow the best practices of project management, which include defining the scope, schedule, budget, and quality, as well as monitoring the progress, risks, and issues. The implementation should also communicate and coordinate with the stakeholders, such as the owners, investors, authorities, users, and community, to ensure their support and satisfaction.

5 Evaluate the outcomes

The fifth step in repurposing an abandoned building is to evaluate the outcomes of the project, both during and after its completion. This involves measuring and analyzing the results and impacts of the project on the building, the urban area, and the stakeholders. The evaluation should use indicators and criteria that reflect the objectives and expectations of the project, such as the environmental performance, the economic return, the social value, and the user satisfaction. The evaluation should also identify the lessons learned and the best practices that can be applied to future projects.

6 Celebrate the success

The sixth and final step in repurposing an abandoned building is to celebrate the success of the project, and to share it with the public and the media. This involves organizing events, activities, and campaigns that showcase the achievements and benefits of the project, and that acknowledge the contributions and efforts of the stakeholders. Celebrating the success can also help to raise awareness and appreciation of the value and potential of repurposing abandoned buildings, and to inspire and motivate other urban regeneration initiatives.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?