DeUrbanization-The Bulldoze effect-Solutions:Adaptive reuse

In the final part of our series we are going to discuss how adaptive reuse of buildings can add to the value of a neighborhood and be a key component in the redevelopment of a neighborhood. These buildings because of their size or use are often targeted for demolition because they are deemed to have outlived their usefulness.

Churches: For many neighborhoods churches were a key factor in everyday life, due to large moves and mega-churches these structure are often not viable for their original use. They are often architect designed, take up a significant footprint and afford a number of redevelopment opportunities. As shown in this photo a church was converted into 4 high end luxury condominiums with underground parking in the basement.




Corner Groceries: The old corner grocery may be a thing of the past but in this case the building was converted into a private residence. These buildings typically have high ceilings and are perfect for adaptive reuse. Originally built as two units, because of the increasing property values in the neighborhood the two units were combined into one luxury unit.





Warehouses: Large industrial warehouses are often the first to be demolished. However these buildings offer a huge amount of square footage. In this case a large warehouse was converted into condominiums an accessory structure was converted into enclosed parking and a fitness center for the residents.

These adaptive reuse project show that buildings that otherwise might be demolished can have new uses, contribute to the re-urbanization of a neighborhood and ultimately generate tax revenues that would be lost if the building had been destroyed.