The importance of place and authenticity in adaptive reuse of heritage buildings

Abstract

PurposeIn adaptive reuse, the importance of place referred to as “genius loci,” whereas authenticity refers to the design, materials, setting and workmanship of a building or place. Genius loci and authenticity are crucial evolving interconnected concepts; however, the concepts are usually studied separately, and consequently, overlooked in adaptive reuse practice. This paper provides precise definitions and a holistic understanding of these terms and discusses complications related to the understanding of the concepts in the adaptive reuse of heritage buildings.Design/methodology/approachContent analysis is an acknowledged way of analysing information related to a subject area and allows researchers to provide new insights and knowledge in a particular area. This paper applies a critical content analysis of published works related to genius loci and authenticity over time.FindingsThe findings show the inter-relationship of genius loci and authenticity, and how these concepts can be considered in the adaptive reuse of heritage buildings, in theory and in practice. Consequently, a checklist is proposed to enable all interested parties engaged with the adaptive reuse of heritage buildings to identify and preserve genius loci and authenticity.Originality/valueIdentity and values of heritage buildings are argued to be the strongest reasons for adaptation. Amongst a wide range of values associated with the adaptive reuse of heritage buildings, place and authenticity are perceived to be the most confusing terms and concepts. Whilst place and authenticity are defined by many authors, their meaning and usage are subjective, which is a challenge in recognising and preserving the values they embody. This study contributes to the greater understanding of these concepts, their meanings and application in adaptive reuse.

AEC/FM performance in adaptive reuse projects: investigation of challenges and development of practical guidelines

“…In addition, the authors also concluded with a reflection on the necessity of such an integration in adaptive reuse projects, as these projects undergo new life cycle and complex processes Hassanain, 2022a, 2022b). Second, a review of the relevant literature on building adaptive reuse was conducted, to comprehend the various aspects pertaining to the encountered challenges in these projects (Douglas, 2006;Langston et al, 2008;Remøy, 2010;Wilkinson and Remøy, 2015;Al-obaidi et al, 2017;Mehr and Wilkinson, 2018;Wilkinson and Remøy, 2018;Günçe and Misirlisoy, 2019;Yoon and Lee, 2019;Hamida and Hassanain, 2022a;Hassan et al, 2020;Mehr and Wilkinson, 2020). The literature review served to provide insights into the possible challenges that might be encountered by the AEC/FM practitioners.…”

Innovative Computational Techniques for Multi-Criteria Decision Making, in the Context of Cultural Heritage Structures’ Fire Protection: Theory

“…In addition, the concern for authenticity preservation has been in focus in a number of studies but commonly in the context of a generic approach of architectural restoration [33] and concerning specific cases (i.e., during the re-use of an existing heritage building) [34,35], usually under the concept of sustainability in urban environments [36]. However, there are no significant studies connecting these two aspects of historic buildings, namely fire safety and authenticity preservation, under a common and universal numerical approach, that is considering the implementation cost as well.…”

An Integrated SWOT-PESTLE-AHP Model Assessing Sustainability in Adaptive Reuse Projects

“…The contribution of adaptive reuse to urban sustainable development and the importance of emblematic infrastructure, seem more direct and clear than ever [49,50]. Thereby, the more the adaptive reuse tends to increase, the more likely it is that sustainable development in environmental, economic, social, and cultural dimensions can be positively affected [51][52][53]. Adaptive reuse projects are a fundamental principle in the field of local sustainable development [54], but widespread rhetoric about the benefits involved [55] prevent a comprehensive understanding of the intimate factors of change.…”