Adaptive reuse of a sports stadium as an academic workplace
Purpose This study explores how adaptive reuse of a non-purpose-built facility can function as an effective academic workplace, focusing on the conversion of under-stadium spaces at Thammasat University’s sports stadium. It aims to examine how the physical and environmental characteristics of spaces resulting from adaptive reuse influence user satisfaction, spatial usability and user well-being, as well as organisational experience and to identify the forms of value – functional, social and cultural – emerging from this adaptive reuse process. The study highlights how design and operational factors shape privacy, comfort, collaboration and institutional identity within a spatially constrained yet symbolically meaningful setting. Design/methodology/approach A mixed-methods design integrated quantitative and qualitative approaches to capture both measurable and experiential aspects of workplace use and performance. Structured questionnaires were administered to academic and teaching support staff to evaluate satisfaction across spatial and environmental factors. Complementary semi-structured interviews with senior administrators and a focus group with seven academic staff provided deeper insights into adaptive behaviours, organisational culture and planning constraints. Quantitative and qualitative findings were triangulated to ensure a comprehensive understanding of user experience within the reused facility. Findings The adaptive reuse of the stadium generated both symbolic and functional outcomes. Users valued the location’s visibility, institutional identity and natural light, reflecting strong emotional attachment and pride in the reused setting. However, shortcomings such as limited privacy, poor acoustics and inadequate storage revealed persistent environmental–functional misfit. Staff responded creatively, informally adapting classrooms, storage rooms and breakout areas to meet daily needs – behaviours that demonstrate resilience and participatory value creation. These findings illustrate how adaptive reuse fosters institutional visibility and resilience through user-led adaptation within physical constraints. Despite these limitations, the reuse strategy enhanced departmental visibility, strengthened collective identity and optimised existing resources, illustrating that adaptive reuse can produce cultural and organisational value beyond physical performance. Practical implications The findings highlight that adaptive reuse projects in universities can achieve long-term value when design and management strategies focus on user participation and incremental improvement rather than full-scale renovation. Introducing flexible zoning, modular furniture and informal social spaces can enhance functionality and user well-being while retaining the character of the reused structure. Facility managers and planners are encouraged to treat reuse as a continual process of adaptation – where user feedback and cultural identity guide ongoing spatial refinement. Originality/value This study reframes adaptive reuse as a process of cultural and organisational renewal, not merely physical transformation. It demonstrates that reused environments can generate added value – functional, social and cultural – when users actively shape and personalise their workspace. By linking post-occupancy evidence with the concept of value creation, the study offers new insight into how user-centred reuse strategies can strengthen both institutional identity and sustainable workplace performance in higher education. The study further positions adaptive reuse as a structured and intentional mechanism of value creation within higher education workplace environments.
- Research Article
10
- 10.1108/sasbe-03-2024-0087
- Jul 25, 2024
- Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
Purpose Circular building adaptability (CBA) in adaptive reuse – building transformation – projects can facilitate a resource-efficient and futureproof redevelopment of the built environment. However, there has been a lack of practical tools that guide practitioners on how to foster CBA in adaptive reuse. Therefore, this study aims to collaboratively develop a guiding framework for CBA in adaptive reuse (CBA-AR) projects in general. The CBA-AR framework is a descriptive and content-oriented synthesis mapping a series of strategies to the CBA determinants alongside their enablers and inhibitors. Design/methodology/approach A participatory research-oriented approach was followed. First, an archival research was conducted to develop the CBA-AR framework based on literature review and case studies. Second, two co-creation workshops, triangulated with structured interviews, were conducted to validate and expand the framework. Findings The first version of the CBA-AR framework comprises 30 CBA strategies. It also brings seven enablers and six inhibitors together with the 30 CBA strategies. The outcomes of the participatory approach contributed to refining and expanding the framework. The final of the CBA-AR framework version comprises CBA 33 strategies. This version brings 10 enablers and 7 inhibitors together with the 33 strategies. Practical implications This framework can be used as a guiding and reporting instrument by designers and property developers while transforming vacant or obsolete properties in the Netherlands. Policy makers can refer to this framework and amend adaptive reuse legislation. Originality/value The CBA-AR framework can introduce a transformative change in theory and practice, as it is based on theoretical, empirical and participatory research.
- Research Article
- 10.17770/etr2025vol1.8624
- Jun 11, 2025
- ENVIRONMENT. TECHNOLOGY. RESOURCES. Proceedings of the International Scientific and Practical Conference
This systematic literature review examines the Adaptive Reuse Potential (ARP) Model and its application in developing age-friendly social housing. The study synthesizes research on the ARP Model's components, benefits, and variations, focusing on its relevance to repurposing existing buildings for social housing. Our findings reveal that the ARP Model offers a robust framework for assessing buildings' suitability for adaptive reuse, with significant potential for promoting sustainable urban development and creating age-friendly living environments. The model's consideration of multiple obsolescence factors allows for a comprehensive evaluation of a building's adaptive reuse potential. Variations of the model, including the Green Adaptive Reuse Model and the Adaptive Sustainable Reuse Model, further enhance its applicability to age-friendly social housing development by incorporating additional sustainability and decision-making criteria. By critically analyzing existing literature, we highlight the model's strengths in addressing complex urban regeneration challenges and meeting the evolving needs of aging populations. The ARP Model demonstrates particular efficacy in bridging architectural preservation with contemporary social housing requirements, offering a nuanced approach to repurposing underutilized urban spaces. This comprehensive evaluation underscores the importance of interdisciplinary considerations in adaptive reuse strategies, integrating architectural, social, and environmental perspectives. This review concludes that the ARP Model and its variations provide valuable tools for decision-making in adaptive reuse projects, particularly in addressing the growing demand for age-friendly social housing. However, there is scope for further development of the model to more explicitly incorporate age-friendly design principles.
- Book Chapter
3
- 10.1007/978-3-030-00220-6_87
- Oct 4, 2018
Adaptive reuse of buildings is considered a superior alternative for new construction in terms of sustainability and Circular Economy (CE). Adaptive reuse takes existing buildings that are reaching the end of their lifespan, restores them, and in some cases, changes their use. The conceptualization and execution phases of adaptive reuse projects involve the integration of emergent complex processes. In comparison to green-field construction projects, adaptive reuse projects require distinct stages, definition of interfaces, decision gates, and planning methods. Therefore, there is a need for defining better ways to identify, record, monitor, and track the project interfaces required for adaptive reuse of buildings. Interface Management (IM) systems are a potential solution for managing the project complexities in these types of projects. Using IM in adaptive reuse projects has the potential of bringing cost and time benefits during project’s execution. The present study proposes a framework for a IM in adaptive reuse projects. First, the concept of adaptive reuse and IM will be explained. Then, an ontology of interfaces for this class of projects will be defined. Finally, a discussion of how IM could be a part of a solution for adaptive reuse projects problems will be presented with a case study.
- Research Article
12
- 10.1108/jedt-05-2020-0203
- Jun 10, 2021
- Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology
PurposeThis paper aims to present a generic lifecycle framework model for guiding architects, engineers, contractors and facilities managers (AEC/FM) practitioners on the effective implementation of adaptive reuse projects.Design/methodology/approachA mixed approach of qualitative and quantitative techniques was followed in the development of the framework model. A literature review was conducted to comprehend the processes involved in adaptive reuse projects. In total, 90 AEC/FM practitioners were surveyed to identify the current practices in these projects. A generic framework model was then developed to standardize the processes involved, using integration definition for function modeling process modeling methodology. Face-to-face interviews with a targeted group of 30 AEC/FM practitioners were conducted, to validate the developed framework model, by assessing the importance and the frequency of implementing each function in the developed framework model.FindingsThe framework model consisted of four sequential processes, namely, assess the feasibility of the adaptive reuse project, design the adaptive reuse project, construct the adaptive reuse project and operate and maintain the adaptive reuse project. The validation confirmed the importance of all the framework functions and the frequency of their implementation.Originality/valueThis research contributes to the literature and the AEC/FM professions, through developing a lifecycle and knowledge-oriented framework model for building adaptive reuse. The framework presents clear documentation of adaptive reuse processes. Thus, it holds the potential of endeavoring on adaptive reuse projects to be more efficient.
- Research Article
7
- 10.5334/bc.495
- Mar 21, 2025
- Buildings & Cities
This study investigates the preservation through adaptive reuse of derelict heritage buildings at risk of demolition in urban settings in New Brunswick, Canada. Despite the demonstrated benefits of adaptive reuse in balancing heritage preservation and contemporary urban needs, small cities face significant challenges: financial constraints, regulatory barriers and technical limitations. Using a multiple-case study approach, adaptive reuse projects in Moncton, Fredericton and Saint John are examined to identify key factors contributing to their success. Findings reveal that prioritising structural adaptability, cultural value and long-term sustainability over profit-driven redevelopment models is essential. Successful adaptive reuse projects rely on collaborative governance frameworks, phased financial strategies, early involvement of technical expertise and active community engagement. This approach is critical to overcoming challenges such as hazardous material management, regulatory barriers and funding limitations. This study demonstrates that adaptive reuse can transform neglected heritage buildings into functional spaces, contributing to urban regeneration, cultural preservation and sustainability, while offering a framework for future adaptive reuse initiatives in similar contexts. Practice relevance The findings highlight key implications for advancing adaptive reuse as a strategy for heritage preservation and sustainability. Prioritising building location, adaptability and cultural value over profit-driven approaches is essential to fostering adaptive reuse initiatives. Establishing clear governance frameworks can align public, private and community efforts, facilitating collaboration to overcome common challenges. Financial incentives, such as grants or tax relief, can address issues such as hazardous material management, while adaptive regulatory processes can streamline approvals. Addressing expertise shortages through targeted training programmes and cross-regional collaboration is particularly important for smaller regions. Additionally, integrating sustainability principles and promoting material reuse within adaptive reuse projects can enhance environmental performance and urban resilience. These measures demonstrate how adaptive reuse can revitalise neglected heritage buildings into functional, purposeful spaces that contribute to cultural continuity, community identity and sustainable urban development.
- Research Article
57
- 10.3390/buildings9050105
- Apr 30, 2019
- Buildings
Adaptive reuse of buildings is considered a superior alternative for new construction in terms of sustainability and a disruptive practice in the current capital project delivery model for the renewal of today’s built environment. In comparison to green-field construction projects, adaptive reuse projects require distinct stages, definition of interfaces, decision gates, and planning methods in order to secure the success of the building project. Unfortunately, little research has been done regarding establishing feasible systems for the planning, assessment, and management of adaptive reuse projects, leading to underperforming building projects outcomes. Interface management (IM) can improve renovation projects outcomes by defining appropriate ways to identify, record, monitor, and track project interfaces. IM has the potential of bringing cost and time benefits during adaptive reuse projects execution. The aim of this study is to develop a reference framework for implementing IM for adaptive reuse projects. First, the inefficiencies of redevelopment projects are explained inside of a circular economy (CE) context. Second, an ontology of IM for adaptive reuse projects is defined based on the current barriers to adaptive reuse and the most common interface problems in construction projects. Third, the defined ontology is expanded through a case study by showing examples of adaptive reuse barriers on a case project, and how IM could have been part of the solution for these problems. Finally, this study concludes with the suggestions on interface management systems (IMS) implementation for future adaptive reuse projects.
- Dissertation
1
- 10.5353/th_b5347058
- Jan 1, 2014
It is good news to see that Hong Kong has adopted the adaptive reuse approach in conserving historical buildings through projects under the Revitalisation Scheme. The bad news is that due to the absence of well-founded locally relevant principles and guidelines, almost all of these projects have brought about fierce quarrels among different groups of professionals. In particular the quarrel between conservation professionals, who try to adopt international best practices in conservation, and government officials, who are responsible for regulating and enforcing fire safety codes consistently in all buildings, regardless they are new or historical. \n \nIn the past, some conservation architects have queried about the possibility of applying for exemption from the fire codes in conserving historical buildings through adaptive reuse. Today, conservation professionals and government officials have accepted that there is little room for compromise regarding the application of the fire codes in the adaptive reuse of historical buildings, as the codes are about ensuring the safety of occupants as well as protecting the heritage property from fire. Conservation professionals are now looking into ways of applying the fire codes in adaptive reuse projects. Now that the Revitalisation Scheme has been in operation for six year with a number of projects successfully completed, it presents the author the opportunity to examine the fire-code application of these completed projects to develop references based on precedent case-studies. Such references would be useful to professionals in adaptive reuse projects (as conservation consultants, project managers, architects and engineers) in facilitating the planning and design of the adaptive reuse in terms of meeting the fire codes. \n \nThis research is to study the application for relaxation of, and exemption from, the prescribed fire safety codes by adopting fire engineering approach in adaptive re-use of Old Tai O Police Station into Tai O Heritage Hotel. Tai O Heritage Hotel is the first and so far the only hotel premises of the Government. Besides, it’s the first historic buildings in Batch I of the Revitalisation Scheme with capital cost funded by the Government. It is a great challenge to equip a 110 years old historic building with modern fire safety provisions and installations. By demonstrating the ways of appropriate means in application of fire engineering approach in fire safety in historic building, procedure and assistance which can be given by Government Departments in facilitating the revitalisation works, it can provide platform for future discussions, or a model for future adaptive re-use projects under the Revitalisation Scheme.
- Research Article
2
- 10.1108/ijbpa-12-2020-0106
- Apr 13, 2021
- International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation
PurposeThis paper investigates the current practices of adaptive reuse projects, within the context of architecture, engineering, construction and facilities management (ACE/FM) industries.Design/methodology/approachA mixed research methodology, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques, was followed. Literature review was performed to comprehend various aspects pertaining to building adaptive reuse. Three questionnaire surveys were administered on 90 AEC/FM practitioners, to investigate the current practices of adaptive reuse projects in Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire surveys were directed to 30 architects/engineers (A/Es), 30 contractors and 30 facilities managers, respectively, through face-to-face interviews. The qualitative and quantitative findings of each questionnaire survey were analyzed. Recommendations were proposed for each of the professional domains, to enhance the overall AEC/FM performance in future adaptive reuse projects.FindingsThe findings pointed out the necessity of accurately planning and designing the adaptive reuse in accordance with the spatial, technical, legislative, economic and functional considerations. The findings revealed the significance of contractors' role in conducting effective supervision over the managerial and technical processes during the implementation of the change of use. It also indicated the importance of the facilities managers' role in performing all daily operational activities, to maintain satisfactory performance of the adaptively reused buildings.Originality/valueThis paper contributes to the relevant literature to the building adaptation, through investigating the perspectives of AEC/FM practitioners on adaptive reuse projects. The findings would enable AEC/FM practitioners to improve their professional practices in future adaptive reuse projects, in an integrated manner.
- Book Chapter
2
- 10.1007/978-3-031-73490-8_11
- Nov 1, 2024
Amid the introduction of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, the longevity and lifecycle of heritage and modern buildings and the process of redevelopment have come under greater scrutiny. Through adaptive reuse, i.e., changes that involve both a functional and a physical component, practitioners can give a second life to existing buildings. To define the state of the art in the scientific research focused on building adaptive reuse, the authors conducted a rapid evidence assessment. It emerged that adaptive reuse is comprehensive topic that deals with social, economic and environmental issues. The goal of the adaptive reuse studies varies from social to environmental topics such as human-centred adaptive reuse, and energy efficient adaptive reuse. A comprehensive approach to adaptive reuse requires integrated strategies aimed at preserving valuable pre-existing human artifacts in the Anthropocene era, characterized by unsustainable consumption and transience of data and images. Adaptive reuse combines pragmatism and creativity and requires sensitivity in the selective approach on existing structures, contexts, and materials. Adaptive reuse projects call for specific skills and targeted strategies that falls into different action categories: reuse, restoration and renewal, i.e., innovative transformations of the “old and degraded” into “new and performative”. Overall, adaptive reuse optimizes environmental sustainability, efficient regeneration processes, increased community interest, and profitability, making it an attractive opportunity for stakeholders seeking to revitalize urban and peri urban areas. Adaptive reuse projects deliver workable solutions, support heritage and cultural preservation, while meeting the changing needs of communities.
- Research Article
- 10.1051/matecconf/20166600087
- Jan 1, 2016
- MATEC Web of Conferences
The adaptive reuse project requires complete and accurate historical information and high levels of expertise from the project team members. Within the typology of adaptive reuse projects, the ability to capture and transfer the unique set of experience from project to project is important to create the relevant knowledge. Previous adaptive reuse studies focused on project success, potential for reuse, benefits, and sustainability. However, research related to creating and transferring skills and knowledge from adaptive reuse project settings has received relatively little attention to date. The study specifically investigates the key components of knowledge transfer for the problem solving process in adaptive reuse projects. In particular, the paper seeks to establish an intellectual capital framework for adaptive reuse projects that could help the project team members transfer their knowledge during problem solving process. This study adopted the qualitative approach to data collection. The data were collected from 14 semi-structured in-depth interviews across two case studies. Data from the interviews were analyzed using content analysis for within-case analysis with the aid of Nvivo Version 9. The finding of the study highlights that the key factors of transferring knowledge were effectiveness and efficiency, similar project teams, project teams actions and sources of information on transferring of intellectual capital among project team members. The contribution of this study is the development of an intellectual capital framework for adaptive reuse projects. This framework can be used as a template for future practice and research in the field of adaptive reuse and knowledge management. In conclusion, the study enables the integration of intellectual capital and knowledge transfer theory within the specific contextual adaptive reuse project settings.
- Research Article
31
- 10.1108/jedt-08-2022-0428
- Jul 28, 2023
- Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology
PurposeThe application of circular building adaptability (CBA) in adaptive reuse becomes an effective action for resource efficiency, long-lasting usability of the built environment and the sped-up transition to a circular economy (CE). This paper aims to explore to which extent CBA-related strategies are applied in adaptive reuse projects, considering enablers and obstacles.Design/methodology/approachA stepwise theory-practice-oriented approach was followed. Multiple-case studies of five circular adaptive reuse projects in The Netherlands were investigated, using archival research and in-depth interviews. A cross-case analysis of the findings was deductively conducted, to find and replicate common patterns.FindingsThe study revealed that configuration flexibility, product dismantlability and material reversibility were applied across the case studies, whereas functional convertibility and building maintainability were less applied. Low cost of material reuse, collaboration among team members and organisational motivation were frequently observed enabling factors. Lack of information, technical complexities, lack of circularity expertise and infeasibility of innovative circular solutions were frequently observed obstacles to applying CBA.Practical implicationsThis paper provides practitioners with a set of CBA strategies that have been applied in the real world, facilitating the application of CBA in future adaptive reuse projects. Moreover, this set of strategies provides policymakers with tools for developing supportive regulations or amending existing regulations for facilitating CE through adaptive reuse.Originality/valueThis study provides empirical evidence on the application of CBA in different real-life contexts. It provides scholars and practitioners with a starting point for further developing guiding or decision-making tools for CBA in adaptive reuse.
- Dissertation
- 10.5353/th_b5071615
- Jan 1, 2013
“The great buildings of the past do to not belong to us only; they have belonged to our forefathers and will belong to our descendents unless we play them false.” \nWilliam Morris (1834-1896) Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings 1875 \n \nSustainable development has become a goal of the society in recent years. By creating a healthy and sustainable built environment, the distinctiveness and the character of the society can be maintained and strengthened. Conservation of the historic building has obvious relevance to this objective because, by definition, it conserves existing assets and can facilitate its adaptation to new uses. Adaptive reuse is a process to bring the historic building again into activity so as to achieve sustainability. \n \nDuring an adaptive reuse process, building professionals like Quantity Surveyors will usually get involved and contribute their professional knowledge into the adaptive reuse project so as to smooth away the obstacles encountered during the conservation process as early as possible. \n \nOne of the ways to streamline the adaptive reuse project is to reduce claims from Contractor at construction stage by a well-prepared and well-written set of specification preliminaries. A standard set for specification preliminaries for adaptive reuse project not only helps in reducing claims but also is a useful tool for Quantity Surveyors to strengthen their professionalism and knowledge in the field of conservation. \n \nThe research for my dissertation focuses on the specification preliminaries of the tender documents of the adaptive reuse projects in Hong Kong. The projects studied will be Old Tai O Police Station (historic building) and Hon Wah College in Kennedy Town (non-historic building). By comparing the similarities and differences of the specification preliminaries between these two projects, the difficulties and problems encountered in a heritage project can be identified (if any) and whether the standardization of specification preliminaries clauses for heritage projects is possible can be determined.
- Research Article
- 10.61511/jcbau.v2i1.2024.913
- Jul 31, 2024
- Journal of City: Branding and Authenticity
Background: This research paper focuses on the adaptive reuse of the De Tjolomadoe (Colomadu) heritage sugar factory within the field of vernacular architecture. Method: Utilizing qualitative research methods such as in-depth interviews, site observations, and archival analysis, it examines the preservation of industrial heritage through its integration into vernacular architectural practices, yielding insights for sustainable development. Findings: The De Tjolomadoe factory, a prominent Indonesian historical and cultural landmark, serves as a compelling case study in adaptive reuse, offering significant findings. Firstly, it illustrates how adaptive reuse effectively preserves cultural identity by seamlessly blending vernacular design elements and traditional building techniques, thereby maintaining a strong connection to its historical and cultural heritage. Secondly, the De Tjolomadoe case exemplifies adaptive reuse as a sustainable development strategy. By utilizing local resources and adhering to vernacular construction methods, the project minimizes environmental impact while generating economic and social benefits for the community. Community engagement emerges as a crucial factor in the success of adaptive reuse projects, as actively involving local communities ensures the authenticity and relevance of such initiatives. Moreover, the transformation of the De Tjolomadoe factory into a cultural destination underscores its substantial economic impact on the region. Similar adaptive reuse projects have the potential to boost tourism, stimulate local economies, and preserve cultural heritage. Conclusion: The lessons drawn from the De Tjolomadoe case offer practical insights and principles guiding future adaptive reuse endeavours, emphasizing cultural preservation, sustainability, community participation, and economic viability. Novelty/Originality of this article: These findings contribute to the growing knowledge base on the adaptive reuse of industrial heritage sites within the context of vernacular architecture, inspiring and informing initiatives aimed at revitalizing our industrial heritage for future generations.
- Research Article
1
- 10.2478/jbe-2024-0007
- Jun 1, 2024
- YBL Journal of Built Environment
Notwithstanding its potential advantages, adaptive reuse has grown in popularity as a sustainable development strategy across the globe. There is a shortage of studies on the methodology and results of adaptive reuse projects in the Middle East. Erbil Citadel’s Houses is a special kind of conservation and adaptive reuse Project. The Middle East, particularly in conflict-affected areas, has received very little research on the methodology and results of adaptive reuse projects. The challenge this research attempts to solve is how to preserve historical sites like the Erbil Citadel houses using adaptive reuse as a sustainable development method. This paper tries to answer what are the key aspects of adaptive reuse as a sustainable strategy for historic structures. By analyzing the difficulties and opportunities related to adaptive reuse to address this gap. The findings from this research can help establish best practices for adaptive reuse in comparable situations and guide the formulation for sustainable development in Middle east areas.
- Conference Article
- 10.15396/eres2022_214
- Jan 1, 2022
Purpose – “The revitalisation of the Deliplein has enabled Katendrecht to shed its longstanding reputation as one of the worst districts in Rotterdam. It is now one of the most sought-after neighbourhoods in the city”. The Fenix food factory is located near Deliplein in the Katendrecht neighbourhood, and plays an essential role for the success of this regeneration project. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the success of the adaptive reuse project of the Fenix food factory, as part of a case study research of several adaptive reuse projects in the Netherlands. Accordingly, this paper seeks to answer the following questions: What are the factors that lead to the success of adaptive reuse projects? How can the success factors of adaptive reuse be implemented in the Dutch redevelopment practice? Design Methodology/approach – The case study approach has been adopted to evaluate the success factors for adaptive reuse of heritage real estate as found through previous literature review. As part of the case study, interviews are held with the stakeholders of Fenix Food Factory, for better understanding the overall framework of the project, such as stakeholder partnerships, reuse regulations and limitations determined by the municipality, financial and social viability. The case study material furthermore includes project documentation and written sources about the project. Findings – The findings show how success factors are applied in the decision making process of adaptive reuse projects. Furthermore, new factors that are not found in existing literature but are considered effective for the success of the Fenix food factory will be added to the body of knowledge on this topic. Originality/value- This research contributes to providing more comprehensive data as input for decision making models for successful adaptive reuse projects. This study reviews the classification of success factors that was revealed in previous studies. The final result of this study will contribute to develop knowledge for the management of heritage real estate.