Project R-15178

Reading Heritage Interiors as a Design Strategy for Adaptive Reuse. (Research)

In the field of adaptive reuse, understanding and interpreting existing architectural and interior elements is key to developing sensitive and sustainable design strategies. This paper explores the concept of 'reading' architecture and interiors as a methodological approach to inform adaptive reuse projects. The act of reading, in this context, goes beyond a simple visual analysis; it involves decoding the layers of history, function, and meaning embedded in a space. By examining the spatial, material, and symbolic traces left by previous uses, architects and designers can create interventions that respect the past while meeting contemporary needs. This study presents a framework for 'reading' that involves an in-depth examination of the Genius Loci, or spirit of the place, and how it can be preserved and reinterpreted within a new design narrative. The paper argues that by understanding the intrinsic qualities of a building—such as its original spatial organization, materiality, and cultural significance—designers can develop more meaningful and contextually appropriate adaptive reuse strategies. Case studies of successful adaptive reuse projects will be analyzed to demonstrate how this reading process can guide design decisions, from minor alterations to large-scale transformations. The findings highlight the importance of dialogue between past and present in shaping new uses for old structures, positioning the act of reading as a crucial tool in adaptive reuse. Ultimately, this approach encourages designers to engage with the built environment in a more thoughtful and reflective manner, leading to more innovative and respectful interventions.

16 September 2024 - 15 September 2028