September 19, 2019

Is Adaptive Reuse the Answer to Your New Space and Location Requirements?

The phrase ‘old is gold’ has taken on a whole new meaning thanks to the upward trend of adaptive reuse. The aspects of this trend focus on turning old buildings, typically historical landmarks, into new, economically feasible places for business; consider places such as the Detroit Foundation Hotel (once a fire department), bustling marketplaces like the Ferry Building in San Francisco and Chelsea Market in New York, and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Massachusetts (a converted factory building). Learn how adaptive reuse can breathe new life into an area and how it may be the perfect answer to your space and location requirements.

1. An Alternative to Demolition

Old buildings can turn into eyesores for the community, which is why many believe demolition is the way to the future. However, contrary to popular belief, preservation does not hinder development – in fact, curated, vintage style has become popular once again, from music, to fashion, to architecture. Existing buildings have stories to tell; they capture historical moments in time and honor the skill and artistry of craftsmen and builders of the past. Demolition not only erases this history, but eliminates the enormous potential these structures have to offer. By applying adaptive reuse, the historical structural design can be preserved, while certain areas can be modernized to give the perfect balance of old and new.

2. Tax Benefits of Historic Rehabilitation

The benefits don’t stop there. Buildings that are income-producing, listed individually, or certified as contributing to a registered historic district may be eligible for federal tax credits. Utilizing adaptive reuse can directly reduce taxes on materials and equipment through the Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit (HTC) program making adaptive reuse a cheaper, more economically-sound decision. States also offer credit, some in addition to the federal credit. Learn more about HTC on the National Park Service website.

3. Rehabilitation for Revitalization and Economic Growth

Rehabilitating old, unused structures can have a significant impact on the surrounding areas and help to bolster economic growth. Many cities offer incentive programs for adaptive reuse in an effort to reduce the number of vacant commercial buildings. Such projects can create jobs and confidence in a city’s economic viability. Not only that, new found vitality within the center of town or in a section of a city can cause a positive ripple effect extending to surrounding neighborhoods, attracting a thriving, young workforce and raising property values.

4. Adaptive Reuse as a Sustainable Solution

Adaptive reuse is also an environmentally-friendly option. Breaking down a building and replacing it with a new one requires manufactured raw materials, transportation, and resources that may be damaging to the environment, especially when it comes to greenhouse gas emissions. With an adaptive reuse project, many of the construction materials are already produced, and therefore not as many natural resources are required. Demolition also encourages building materials to end up in landfills, negatively impacting the natural environment. Working with companies who are dedicated to sustainability, can help you with the adaptive reuse process.

5. Design: Modern Meets Traditional for a One-of-a-Kind Space

History plays a vital role in telling a city’s story, and it is important to preserve the culture and tradition that these buildings represent. Developing an existing building can keep the antique or traditional aspects of the structure intact, while creating a space to support today and tomorrow’s business environment. Mixing two styles of architecture produces a unique flair that is intriguing and welcoming, not to mention how it sets a business and its space apart from the competition. Designers may choose to keep brick walls or decorative moldings, but replace the floors throughout for long-lasting performance and a contemporary look. Perhaps the original staircase elements add charm, but custom wall panels add just the right touch to amplify the company’s brand and culture.

There are endless options when mixing between original elements and the latest design options. Opportunities await for old factories, warehouses, and corner gas stations to transform into bustling microbreweries, restaurants, offices, and marketplaces.

Ready to Create Your Dream Space?
Liquid Elements is a brand of Stonhard. Our products can breathe new life into any space, intended for any use. Our architectural/engineering representatives will guide you in finding the best product to perform and last for the long-term, while meeting your design requirements, including custom colors, blends, patterns, and logos.