Reuse Projects Research Articles

Implementing an adaptive reuse on industrial buildings: a proposal for transforming Erbil’s Silo in Kurdistan-Iraq into a hotel

Industrial buildings, serving as markers of cultural heritage, connect our cultural identity from the past through the present and into the future. Unfortunately, many of these buildings lose their identity when they are converted into another function. Through the case study analysis (the Silo of Erbil City), a qualitative method is employed to examine design strategies and spatial transformations in recent adaptive reuse projects of existing structures. Through the literature review, this research investigates the importance of adaptive reuse and heritage buildings, underscoring their historical and theoretical underpinnings, and subsequently examines contemporary approaches to architectural criteria towards habitation for existing structures in the public, creative, and cultural domains. The study findings identify common fundamental elements of industrial heritage adaptive reuse and innovative design strategies applied in recent adaptive reuse projects, highlighting the potential to transform neglected or vacant abandoned buildings into urban open spaces. The study uses a comprehensive methodology involving case study analyses and diverse data collection techniques. The case study properties are the structural systems, natural lighting, and the surrounding open spaces. As a result, a hotel with a multipurpose hall, and a museum dedicated to the history of the Silo have been proposed, aiming at conserving the valuable heritage in this industrial area as well as providing an alternative perspective for the adaptive reuse of industrial structures in Erbil city. Finally, the implications of the research for the economic and social dimensions of urban development lie in understanding and promoting sustainable preservation strategies. This work is considered the first step for future research in Iraq, specifically in Kurdistan Region. The research concludes that the Silo of Erbil is one of the successful examples of the process of reusing buildings. It also concludes that less intervention in reusing a building can protect the building identity.

The transition towards a sustainable circular economy through life cycle assessment in the building and construction sector: a review and bibliometric analysis.

Transitioning to a circular economy is indispensable for the construction industry to achieve sustainable development goals. Understanding trends, gaps, and opportunities in life cycle assessment (LCA) for adopting a circular economy is critical. This study investigates the development of publications, identifies the most effective documents, authors, and countries, and highlights critical issues, knowledge axes, active research areas, and knowledge gaps. The study screened 196 out of 280 articles from the Scopus database and conducted a bibliometric analysis using CiteSpace and VOSviewer. Document clustering analysis identified the main research domains, and thematic classifications of knowledge areas and axes were provided. Additionally, development opportunities and knowledge gaps were identified through a full-text analysis of selected articles. The results show an increase in publications post-2017, with key research clusters including "Critical consideration," "Circular building component," "Building material," "Design for disassembly," "Integrated load match analysis," "Adaptive reuse project," "Data bank," "Prospective life cycle assessment," "Investment decision," and "Environmental comparison." Over 60% of the documents propose circular design solutions, end-of-life strategies, and alternative materials, while more than 80% focus solely on the environmental aspect. Only 4.6% develop integrated indicators, 2.5% automate LCA, 2.1% compile life cycle inventory databases, and 2% consider the social dimension. The findings emphasize the need to develop integrated indicators, methods, life cycle inventory databases, and automation tools based on integrated platforms and emerging technologies like building information modeling. This research identifies current knowledge gaps, suggests future research directions, and enhances understanding of how to make LCA more compatible with the circular economy.

Treated wastewater reuse for irrigation: A feasibility study in Portugal

In an increasing water scarcity and climate-vulnerable global context, treated wastewater represents a vital alternative water source, thereby enhancing resource sustainability. Despite its potential, only roughly 2.5 % of the treated wastewater is reused in the European Union, with Portugal's reuse rate being only 1.2 % in 2022. Considering this framework, this study evaluates the feasibility of increasing wastewater reuse in Portugal by focusing on the Tagus River and Ribeiras do Oeste Basins. The regional assessment identified eight key wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) with significant potential for irrigation reuse in the agriculture and tourism sectors. Analysing costs, quality requirements, and technological options, this study considered five treatment lines, incorporating filtration and disinfection methods. The findings indicate that reclaimed water costs may range from 0.02€/m3 to 0.83€/m3, being competitive with other water sources and significantly lower than desalination processes (up to 1.66€/m3). Distribution investments and energy consumption are primary cost drivers, suggesting a relocation of WWTP closer to end-users as a cost-saving strategy. The proposed reuse projects could quadruple regional reuse rates and double the national rate, mitigating water needs for over 2000 ha of agricultural land and golf courses. This study underscores the importance of treated wastewater reuse in addressing water scarcity, advocating for WWTP decentralisation, strategic investments and policy interventions to achieve cost-effective goals. The methodologies and insights presented offer valuable guidance for other regions facing similar challenges, promoting a paradigm shift towards circular water resource management.

Heritage and identity: The vernacular transformation of de tjolomadoe

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.

Towards promoting circular building adaptability in adaptive reuse projects: a co-developed framework

Towards promoting circular building adaptability in adaptive reuse projects: a co-developed framework

Heritage conservation and energy efficiency in adaptive reuse projects the case of Gaziantep, Türkiye

PurposeThis article explores the challenges and opportunities in adaptive reuse projects for historic buildings, focusing on the interrelationship between energy efficiency and heritage conservation.Design/methodology/approachThe study utilises a mixed-method approach, including semi-structured interviews and energy retrofit surveys, conducted in seven adaptively reused historical buildings in the Bey neighbourhood, Gaziantep, Türkiye. Thematic analysis is used for interviews, and survey results were discussed together within the framework of CSN EN16883.FindingsThe adaptive reuse of historic buildings can result in economic, social, cultural and environmental benefits for local communities. However, for this to occur, careful consideration must be given when selecting the new function, ensuring that it aligns with the buildings' environmental performance potential and the community’s needs. Considering the CSN EN16883 Guidelines for improving the energy performance of historic buildings, when the retrofits made by the users are assessed, the general approach is to preserve the heritage value of the building rather than making it energy efficient.Originality/valueThis study will add to a cross-cultural understanding of the complex relationship between adaptive reuse, energy efficiency and heritage conservation by looking at the local context of Gaziantep. No similar qualitative study addresses this issue in this region.

Evaluating Stakeholders’ Decisions in A Blockchain-Based Recycling Construction Waste Project: A Hybrid Evolutionary Game and System Dynamics Approach

To promote efficient construction waste recycling and reuse, a novel waste management approach based on blockchain technology was introduced to the industry. However, adopting blockchain platforms in construction waste recycling and reuse may impact the behavioral strategies of stakeholders and impede the prediction of the specific impacts of stakeholders’ decisions. Accordingly, this study addresses two primary questions: (1) What are the collaborative framework and the behavioral evolution trends of multiple stakeholders within the context of blockchain? (2) How can the behavioral strategies of multiple stakeholders be systematically coordinated to achieve efficient construction waste recycling and reuse driven by blockchain? To answer these questions, a tripartite game model combined with system dynamics was constructed. In this model, we aimed to elucidate the internal organizational framework, analyze the dynamic evolution process, and assess the influence of decisions made by multiple stakeholders at the individual level. It also offers corresponding policy recommendations for efficient construction waste recycling and reuse driven by blockchain at the system level. This study offers three innovations. First, it considers the decision-making of multiple stakeholders as an interdependent and coevolutionary process to overcome the defects of analyzing only one type of participant. Second, in contrast to the static analysis method, it employs a dynamic system approach to deeply analyze the evolving structures of blockchain-based projects. Third, it provides a theoretical framework for the practical implementation of blockchain-driven platforms in managing construction waste recycling and reuse, thus fostering effective policy development and management practices. This framework aims to promote sustainable development in construction waste recycling and reuse projects in China as well as globally.

Twice-Told Tales - About Love Toward Immortality

Aside from design, adaptive reuse in architecture is underpinned by a complex interplay of aesthetic, historical,environmental, and economic considerations. This paper discusses the rationale behind salvaging old structuresrather than opting for demolition and new builds, examining three key aspects: Firstly, architecture transcends merefunctionality, encompassing history, memory, and ‘human desire’1 to shape the built environment. Old buildingsserve as historical witnesses, embodying2 a narrative that contributes to the cultural richness of their surroundings.Secondly, the sustainability imperative favors the salvage of existing structures over demolition, acknowledging theembodied tangible and intangible resources and energy within them. Finally, the intrinsic value of irreplaceableelements such as traditional construction methods, spatial experiences, and authentic materials underscores theunique character of old buildings. Critical to the success of adaptive reuse projects is meticulous documentation,serving as a vital tool for architects, designers, and preservation experts. But most importantly, adaptive reuse allowsarchitecture to retell historical and contemporary stories multiple times.

Feasibility of Using Reclaimed Water from the Alegria Wastewater Treatment Plant in Concrete Mixing Plants in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Due to the rising costs of transportation and the more advanced treatment needed to meet the water demands of the urban population, the costs of potable water tend to increase as cities expand. For some water uses, potable water is not required, such as concrete mixing industries. Previous studies have proven the viability of using reused water in concrete production. In Caju, Rio de Janeiro, four large concrete mixing plants (CMPs) are located close to the Alegria Wastewater Treatment Plant. This study focused on assessing the technical and financial feasibility of reusing these effluents as an alternative source of water for the four CMPs. The alternatives were potable and reused water via two supply methods, water tank trucks and pipelines. All costs were analyzed and projected into the future with the market cost of capital. After comparing the costs, the use of reclaimed water proved to be highly feasible, especially when a using pipeline to supply the CMPs. The present costs for the reclaimed water supply were calculated to be USD 0.99 per m3 for the pipeline alternative and the other alternatives varied in being 5 to 7 times more costly. This water reuse project using pipelines to transport reclaimed water to concrete mixing plants provides a feasible, sustainable alternative water supply in water stressed regions such as Rio de Janeiro.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Can Make Potable Reuse Projects More Resilient

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Can Make Potable Reuse Projects More Resilient

Fluid Financing of Water Utility Infrastructure With WIFIA

Key TakeawaysThe Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) is a US Environmental Protection Agency finance program that has gained bipartisan support over its decade of existence.WIFIA is designed to accelerate nationally or regionally significant infrastructure projects by providing low‐interest loans for water projects.Loan amounts vary across project types, but not among project types per capita.Generally, stormwater and drinking water project types have lower loan amounts, while wastewater and reuse project types have a wider range.

Evaluating the Viability of the Erbil Citadel Houses for Adaptive Reuse Process

Abstract 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.

Evaluating the Quality of Architectural Heritage Reuse Projects Using a Well-Being and NEB Approach: The Case Study of IPIM in Turin (Italy)

International conservation approaches recognise architectural heritage as crucial in promoting sustainable development and enhancing human well-being. This has been highlighted by the recent New European Bauhaus (NEB) movement. As for the reuse of architectural heritage, this debate has led to the formulation of new guidelines that aim to maximise the tangible and intangible values of the assets from a long-term and circular economy perspective. In turning theory into operational practice, it is essential to reuse heritage structures while keeping these principles in mind and remaining within the boundaries of conservation objectives. To achieve this, evaluation tools that can aid in the decision-making process need to be identified. This research presents a novel model of indicators that can monitor and evaluate the quality of architectural heritage reuse projects, proposing a perspective that considers both the concept of well-being and the NEB principles. The proposed model is tested on Turin’s IPIM (Provincial Institute for Childhood and Maternity). This structure has been transformed from an uncomfortable heritage into a cultural centre for contemporary art called Flashback Habitat. The case study tests the model’s practical applicability and demonstrates its effectiveness in identifying the most challenging principles to apply in practice.

Evaluation of Satisfaction with Spatial Reuse of Industrial Heritage in High-Density Urban Areas: A Case Study of the Core Area of Beijing’s Central City

Industrial heritage is regarded as an important stock of spatial resources in cities, which highlights its utilization value for urban regeneration in high-density urban areas. With the dramatic increase in the number of industrial heritage reuse projects, how to scientifically evaluate the satisfaction with their spatial reuse is a key part of the solution for the mutual balance between heritage preservation and urban renewal. This paper takes eight industrial heritage conversion and utilization projects in the high-density core area of Beijing’s central city as examples; establishes an evaluation system for the satisfaction with the spatial reuse through six dimensions, namely, functional replacement, transportation accessibility, carrying capacity, public space, boundary form, and recognition of value; and uses the IPA method to evaluate the cases. This method is used to determine the degree of user satisfaction with the spatial reuse of industrial heritage in the core area of Beijing’s central city and to summarize the advantages and problems of its reuse. The results of this study reveal a trend toward the “community-oriented” re-generation of industrial heritage in the core area of Beijing’s central city, and this paper proposes recommendations for adaptive use to support high-quality urban regeneration work.

Multidimensional Evaluation Framework for Assessing Cultural Heritage Adaptive Reuse Projects: The Case of the Seminary in Sant’Agata de’ Goti (Italy)

As climate change accelerates, urban areas are becoming increasingly inhospitable, with rising heat island effects and overall unhealthy environmental conditions. In this context, historic villages, due to their proximity to nature and lower population density, can represent a valuable alternative to unsustainable urban areas, providing better quality of life (i.e., through healthier environment, better work–life balance). They are “populated” by historic buildings characterized by high cultural value but are often in a state of abandonment. Nowadays, the adaptive reuse of cultural heritage represents an efficient strategy to adapt it to new needs/requirements and, at the same time, to preserve its historical and intrinsic values for present and future generations. In this framework, this study proposes a multidimensional evaluation framework for assessing cultural heritage adaptive reuse projects, covering all sustainability dimensions and capturing both tangible and intangible values. This framework, consisting of multiple criteria and multidimensional indicators, has been applied to evaluate alternative scenarios related to the regeneration of the abandoned Seminary in Sant’Agata de’ Goti (historic village), Benevento, Italy. In particular, three different scenarios have been evaluated by the SOCRATES (SOcial multi Criteria Assessment of European policies) method, a multicriteria decision method developed by the Joint Research Center (JRC) of the European Commission.

Sustainability of Historical Buildings Through Reuse Projects: A Case Study of the Kadıköy District in Istanbul

This research focuses on the preservation and adaptive reuse of historic structures. It emphasizes the importance of conserving cultural and historical heritage, suggesting that assigning new functions to these buildings contributes to sustainability. The study progresses through successful examples of adaptive reuse of historical buildings acquired by the Kadıköy Municipality, addressing spatial, cultural, and legal dimensions. It underscores the importance of preserving the architectural characteristics, spatial organizations, and surroundings of these buildings when assigning new functions. The research advocates for minimal intervention principles in adaptive reuse projects, ensuring the historical and cultural values of the buildings are considered. Furthermore, it highlights that these projects should not only focus on physical restoration but also faster social and cultural interaction. Adaptive reuse projects in the Kadıköy region have been developed in line with these principles, creating active and functional spaces that respond to community needs. These projects successfully demonstrate how the preservation and active use of historical buildings can contribute to regional and cultural sustainability. Finally, the research addresses the challenges encountered in the preservation and adaptive reuse of historical buildings in Turkey, discussing legal, economic, and technical issues, and offers suggestions for effective strategies in this field. The aim is to increase awareness and develop efficient strategies for the preservation of Turkey’s historical structures.

Üsküdar Electricity Factory - Nevmekan: Evaluation of The Structural System in The Context of Adaptive Reuse

Buildings in Türkiye that reflect the impact of European industrialization in the 18th century and later are now considered industrial heritage. These buildings, which are worthy of preservation, can be brought back to the city with the understanding of adaptive reuse. However, in this case, seismic loads, which pose a great risk for industrial heritage buildings, are among the important issues that need to be discussed. Therefore, the adaptive reuse of such buildings focuses on structural system design, repair, and strengthening. In evaluating the structural system, efforts are also made to establish the link between the old identities of the buildings and their present identities. In the study, the adaptive reuse process of the Üsküdar Electricity Factory (Nevmekan), an industrial heritage building located in Istanbul, is evaluated by focusing on the original architectural and structural system and the architectural and structural system design after the adaptive reuse. In the research, the survey and restoration drawings were obtained from the Üsküdar Municipality, and the original and adaptive reused structural system of the building was evaluated according to the criteria in the current earthquake code. While the Nevmekan building constitutes a positive example of social, cultural, economic, and sustainability issues with its reuse approach, the evaluation of seismic effects and their application to the building has been limited. In Türkiye, which is an earthquake zone, to preserve buildings of such high historical and industrial value and to transfer them safely to future generations, it is necessary to give importance to the improvement of the structural system in adaptive reuse projects.

A communication strategy for water reuse in South Africa

ABSTRACT Water-scarce regions, including South Africa, have identified water reuse as one of the promising solutions to augment water supply to meet the ever-increasing demand for freshwater resources. However, public perceptions have been identified as a critical factor, which can either facilitate the success and acceptance of water reuse projects or become a formidable barrier. To address this challenge in South Africa, the National Strategy for Water Reuse calls for the development of a national communication strategy to promote understanding of water reuse and foster its public acceptance. This paper outlines the journey from consultation with stakeholders to development of a national communication strategy for water reuse in South Africa. The strategy has been crafted using a framework that is based on an understanding of the complex interplay of public opinions and perceptions of water reuse. The strategy targets public education and aims to empower the public to become water reuse literate. The framework used to develop the strategy is versatile, and capable of effectively addressing the multi-dimensional and context-specific aspects of water reuse.

Unveiling drivers and barriers in advancing agricultural wastewater reuse in Southern Italy: A SWOT analysis informed by stakeholder insights

In the Apulia region (Southern Italy), the issue of water scarcity is escalating, making wastewater reclamation and reuse crucial options for promoting sustainable development. Despite substantial financial investments, the practical adoption of wastewater reuse for agricultural irrigation remains constrained. Using a quantitative SWOT framework, we analyzed market, social, and product-related factors impacting water reuse. A questionnaire with 23 out of 30 expert stakeholders, including researchers, public administration officials, utility members, farmers, and engineers, was used to evaluate the significance of each aspect identified in the SWOT analysis. The key drivers of a wastewater-reuse-based economy include improved water availability during drought, a commitment to the circular economy, and existing successful agricultural reuse projects. Conversely, identified obstacles encompass the lack of storage basins for storing wastewater between seasons to synchronize production with crop water needs, inadequate political dedication to oversee groundwater withdrawals, difficulties in controlling investments, and bureaucratic demands arising from stringent regulation. Underpinned by the recently enacted EU Water Reuse Regulation, the reuse of wastewater is crucial for addressing water scarcity, mitigating aquifer over-exploitation, and achieving objectives related to the circular economy. However, moving forward, an updated governance framework integrating continuous monitoring, active stakeholder engagement, and investments in intermediate storage facilities is imperative for effective and sustainable wastewater reuse. This research provides novel empirical evidence and expands upon existing studies on barriers and opportunities related to reclaimed water in a Mediterranean context and regions facing similar challenges. The findings can serve as a valuable reference for future research in this field.

Public acceptance in direct potable water reuse: a call for incorporating responsible research and innovation

ABSTRACT As global issues such as climate change and diminishing resources become increasingly pressing, water recycling has moved into the focus. However, the successful implementation of Direct Potable Water Reuse (DPR) projects hinges on securing public acceptance, which remains challenging. This paper aims to flesh out possible reasons for the lingering public rejection of DPR. We will do so by conducting a literature review on how public acceptance is understood and what approaches are proposed to enhance it. These approaches are analyzed using Responsible Research and Innovation principles and the `opening up', `closing down' and `leaving ajar' approaches. Our research identifies an overreliance on the controversial information deficit model, closing down large parts of public engagement. We advocate for becoming more inclusive through the `leaving ajar' approach. Particularly, attention should be paid to reflexivity and responsiveness to public concerns to ensure meaningful public engagement.