Short answer

Prioritize the adaptive reuse of existing industrial structures over new builds whenever feasible to leverage their inherent resources and reduce environmental impact.

Field
Sustainability
Source
OhioLink ETD Center (Ohio Library and Information Network) (2005)
Method
Case study analysis and conceptual design proposal.
Evidence
Strong effect

Repurposing existing industrial structures for new uses significantly reduces the environmental impact associated with new construction by preserving embodied energy and minimizing waste. This sustainability research insight is drawn from a 2005 study published in OhioLink ETD Center (Ohio Library and Information Network). Using Case study analysis and conceptual design proposal., researchers explored how this design variable affects real-world outcomes. The key design takeaway: Prioritize the adaptive reuse of existing industrial structures over new builds whenever feasible to leverage their inherent resources and reduce environmental impact.

Study
SustainabilityHigh ImpactStrong effect

Adaptive Reuse of Industrial Buildings Cuts Embodied Energy and Waste

Repurposing existing industrial structures for new uses significantly reduces the environmental impact associated with new construction by preserving embodied energy and minimizing waste.

OhioLink ETD Center (Ohio Library and Information Network) · 2005

01

Key Findings

  • 01Abandoned industrial buildings represent a significant untapped resource.
  • 02Adaptive reuse conserves embodied energy and reduces waste compared to new construction.
  • 03Repurposing structures can contribute to community revitalization and sustainable development.
02

Application

Design takeaway

Prioritize the adaptive reuse of existing industrial structures over new builds whenever feasible to leverage their inherent resources and reduce environmental impact.

How to apply

When faced with a project site containing an underutilized or abandoned industrial building, conduct a thorough assessment of its potential for adaptive reuse before considering new construction.

Project actions

  • 01Research local examples of adaptive reuse projects.
  • 02Consider the historical significance of existing structures in your design.
  • 03Analyze the embodied energy of both new construction and adaptive reuse scenarios.
03

Method & Evidence

AimTo investigate the potential of adaptive reuse of industrial buildings as a strategy for achieving greater sustainability in the built environment.
MethodCase study analysis and conceptual design proposal.
ProcedureThe study examines the issue of abandoned industrial structures in the context of societal economic shifts and proposes adaptive reuse as a solution. It uses the example of the DP&L Third Street Substation to illustrate how such a building can be redeveloped for a new purpose (sports training and rehabilitation center) to embody both historical context and sustainable design principles.
ContextUrban renewal and architectural engineering.

Variables

IVBuilding type (industrial vs. new construction).
DVEnvironmental impact (embodied energy, waste generation).
CVBuilding size, intended new use.
04

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

  • +Highlights a practical approach to sustainability in the built environment.
  • +Provides a conceptual framework for repurposing derelict structures.

Limitations

The structural integrity, historical preservation requirements, and local regulations can significantly impact the viability and cost of adaptive reuse.

Reliability & validity

The findings are based on conceptual analysis and a single case study, making direct generalization challenging. Further quantitative analysis of embodied energy and life cycle assessments would enhance reliability.

Think critically

To what extent can the principles of adaptive reuse be applied to other types of existing structures beyond industrial buildings, and what are the primary challenges in doing so?

05

Design Principles

"Embrace the circular economy by extending the lifespan of existing built assets through adaptive reuse."

This approach challenges the linear 'produce-use-discard' model prevalent in many industries. By embracing adaptive reuse, designers and engineers can tap into a substantial resource of existing built environments, contributing to more sustainable development patterns and reducing the demand for virgin materials.

06

What This Means for Your Design

Instead of tearing down old factories and building new ones, it's often better for the environment to update and reuse the old ones. This saves energy and materials.

How to use in your project

  • 1.Use this research to justify the selection of an existing building for your design project, highlighting the sustainability benefits.
  • 2.Compare the environmental impact of adaptive reuse versus new construction for your specific design challenge.
07

Add to My Project

08

Quick Cite

Paragraph starter

The adaptive reuse of industrial buildings presents a powerful strategy for enhancing sustainability by conserving embodied energy and minimizing waste, thereby challenging the linear production model. By repurposing existing structures, designers can contribute to more responsible resource management and community revitalization, as exemplified by the potential redevelopment of industrial sites into functional, modern spaces that respect their historical context.

09

Source

OhioLink ETD Center (Ohio Library and Information Network)

SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH ADAPTIVE REUSE: THE CONVERSION OF INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS

journal · 2005

View source

Questions About This Research

What does the research say about adaptive reuse of industrial buildings cuts embodied energy and waste?
Prioritize the adaptive reuse of existing industrial structures over new builds whenever feasible to leverage their inherent resources and reduce environmental impact. Evidence: OhioLink ETD Center (Ohio Library and Information Network) (2005).
Why does "Adaptive Reuse of Industrial Buildings Cuts Embodied Energy and Waste" matter for design?
This approach challenges the linear 'produce-use-discard' model prevalent in many industries. By embracing adaptive reuse, designers and engineers can tap into a substantial resource of existing built environments, contributing to more sustainable development patterns and reducing the demand for virgin materials.
How can designers apply this research?
Prioritize the adaptive reuse of existing industrial structures over new builds whenever feasible to leverage their inherent resources and reduce environmental impact.
What were the main findings?
Abandoned industrial buildings represent a significant untapped resource.. Adaptive reuse conserves embodied energy and reduces waste compared to new construction.. Repurposing structures can contribute to community revitalization and sustainable development.
What research method was used?
Case study analysis and conceptual design proposal..
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence strength is rated Strong effect, based on a 2005 journal from OhioLink ETD Center (Ohio Library and Information Network).
What should I do differently in my next project?
When faced with a project site containing an underutilized or abandoned industrial building, conduct a thorough assessment of its potential for adaptive reuse before considering new construction.
What are the limitations?
The feasibility of adaptive reuse is highly dependent on the specific condition, location, and structural integrity of the existing building, as well as local zoning and economic factors.