Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Historic buildings hold significant cultural and architectural value, often serving as tangible links to the past within contemporary urban landscapes. However, many of these structures face challenges in terms of functionality, maintenance, and economic viability. This research explores the concept of adaptive reuse as a sustainable approach to urban regeneration, focusing on the transformation of historic buildings to meet the evolving needs of society while preserving their historical significance. The study begins with an examination of the background and context of adaptive reuse, highlighting the importance of preserving heritage assets within the framework of sustainable development. By addressing the problem statement of the declining condition of historic buildings and the increasing pressure for urban revitalization, this research aims to provide insights into effective strategies for repurposing these structures in a way that benefits both the community and the environment. The objectives of the study include analyzing successful case studies of adaptive reuse projects, identifying the key factors that contribute to their success, and evaluating the challenges and limitations associated with such initiatives. By delving into the scope of adaptive reuse practices, this research seeks to uncover the potential for creating sustainable, vibrant, and inclusive urban environments through the revitalization of historic buildings. The significance of this study lies in its potential to inform urban planners, architects, policymakers, and other stakeholders about the benefits of adaptive reuse as a means of promoting sustainable urban development. By exploring the economic, social, and environmental advantages of repurposing historic buildings, this research aims to inspire innovative approaches to urban regeneration that respect the past while embracing the future. The structure of the thesis is organized into five main chapters. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the research topic, offering a comprehensive overview of the background, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, and structure of the study. Chapter 2 presents a detailed literature review that examines existing theories, concepts, and best practices related to adaptive reuse and urban regeneration. Chapter 3 outlines the research methodology, including the research design, data collection methods, sampling techniques, and analytical tools used to investigate the topic. This chapter also discusses ethical considerations and potential limitations of the research process. Chapter 4 presents a thorough discussion of the findings, analyzing the key insights derived from the case studies and empirical data collected during the study. In conclusion, Chapter 5 summarizes the key findings, draws conclusions based on the research outcomes, and offers recommendations for future research and practical applications. By highlighting the benefits of adaptive reuse in promoting sustainable urban development, this thesis contributes to the ongoing discourse on heritage conservation, urban planning, and environmental sustainability in the context of contemporary cities.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Adaptive Reuse of Historic Buildings: A Sustainable Approach to Urban Regeneration" aims to explore the potential of repurposing historic buildings as a sustainable strategy for urban revitalization. This research will delve into the concept of adaptive reuse, which involves the transformation of existing structures for new functions while retaining their historical and architectural significance. The significance of this study lies in addressing the growing need for sustainable urban development practices that preserve cultural heritage and promote environmental conservation. By repurposing historic buildings, cities can reduce the demand for new construction, minimize waste generation, and contribute to the preservation of local identity and sense of place. The research will begin with an introduction to the topic, providing background information on the importance of historic preservation and sustainable urban development. The problem statement will highlight the challenges faced in balancing the preservation of historic buildings with the need for urban regeneration. The objectives of the study will outline the specific goals and research questions that will guide the investigation. The limitations of the study will be acknowledged, such as constraints in data availability, time, and resources. The scope of the research will define the boundaries within which the study will be conducted, focusing on a specific geographic area or typology of historic buildings. The significance of the study will be emphasized, showcasing the potential impact of adaptive reuse on urban sustainability and cultural heritage preservation. The structure of the thesis will be outlined, detailing the organization of chapters and sub-sections. Definitions of key terms related to adaptive reuse, historic preservation, sustainability, and urban regeneration will be provided to ensure clarity and consistency in the research. The literature review will analyze existing research and case studies on adaptive reuse, sustainable urban development, and historic preservation. This section will explore best practices, challenges, and success factors in repurposing historic buildings for contemporary uses. The research methodology will detail the approach, methods, and tools used to collect and analyze data for the study. This will include qualitative and quantitative research techniques, data sources, and sampling strategies. The discussion of findings will present the results of the research, highlighting key findings, trends, and insights related to the adaptive reuse of historic buildings for urban regeneration. This section will analyze the implications of the findings and their relevance to theory and practice. The conclusion and summary will synthesize the key findings of the study, reiterate the significance of adaptive reuse for urban regeneration, and propose recommendations for future research and practice in the field. Overall, this research aims to contribute to the discourse on sustainable urban development and heritage conservation through the lens of adaptive reuse of historic buildings.