6 signs of a successful adaptive reuse project

City centers across the world are prime for adaptive reuse of older buildings. In Atlanta, Jamestown re imagined a Sears catalog center into Ponce City Market over the course of three years. Residents and new transplants to the city rejoiced at the opening to see a building with a soul secure new life. The building’s story and the atmosphere that it emulates cannot be replicated.

My team and I have been involved in more than a dozen adaptive reuse and mixed-use projects since 2005. So what are the traits of a successful re-development?

1.Great Location

Adaptive reuse is a path to breathe new life into an old building while conserving resources and historic value. Countless companies are turning to adaptive reuse as a solution to counter the heavy costs of construction. Many of these properties have sat idle due to environmental challenges, land availability or the desire to conserve an historic landmark.

You often hear in real estate that location is KING. It’s true. The most amazing building in the wrong location is not going to produce the desired results. If you have a pioneering spirit, you may be comfortable pursuing an adaptive reuse in an emerging market. Some of the most creative people we know were among the first to buy property in neighborhoods that were a little rough around the edges. Those that are blessed with knowledge and educated luck are the ones that can position themselves for success.

2. Character -Defining Features

Adaptive reuse allows the beauty of older buildings to shine. The character of the old influences the new orientation of the structure, which can lead to some beautiful outcomes. At Ponce City Market, Jamestown was amazed to uncover the wood floors beneath layers of linoleum flooring.

The redevelopment of the structure should embrace the unique pieces that help shape the new story and life of the building. Balance the old and new, keep the special details that emulate the spirit of the old and add comfort to make it modern.

Think of ways to make a statement - create buzz in the neighborhood. For example, at Ponce City Market, part of the second floor was opened and steel bracing was installed to open the connection between the first floor and second floor. It was painted bright orange, a beautiful statement piece that was then used as part of the branding for the property. These additions created connectivity and a pop of color to bridge the energy between the floors.

3. Original Materials

Successful adaptive reuse projects modify the old for new but keep distinct elements of history. When Ponce City Market was under construction, there were public and private tours of the property to build buzz and keep the community engaged. What a feat for a three year long project! I thought the coolest pieces were the ones that were re embedded in the building.

Not all materials can weather the time a building may have been been vacant. Brick, iron and steel survive better than wood, which is susceptible to water damage and wood loving insects. the pieces that remain to give a structure character should provide structural support. due to changes in building materials, owners may have to test for lead paint as well as asbestos and ensure that as part of the redevelopment, these items are removed appropriately.

4. Flexible Thinking

When converting old to new, one has to plan a space without specific tenants in mind so that you can be flexible later. These spaces need to be adaptable to different sizes later for uses such as office, retail, restaurant, healthcare and perhaps galleries and performance spaces.

The adaptability expands to mechanical systems as well. Adding modern plumbing and electrical to a 100 year old building is often a feat in patience. A coffee shop has different needs in water than a store selling guitars. when designing, try to shy away from limitations if possible. If you can leave your design open, you are more likely to attract the emerging brands that can put their own mark on the space.

5. Tasteful Upgrades

Old buildings often sell for a fraction of what it costs to make them usable. Many of these structures need updated electricity, air-conditioning, heating and plumbing. Thermal efficiency is also something to pay attention to ensuring that the new heating systems are not leaking the hot air to the outside air. One wants a closed envelope to ensure energy efficiency.

Many developers are considering renewable energy to decrease their upfront costs. On-site solar panels can reduce future power bills and attract environmentally-conscious tenants - while making use of an otherwise unusable position of the building.

6. Careful Site Planning

While the building is a piece of the overall experience, one cannot forget the surrounding property outside the structure. At Ponce City Market, beyond the building, Jamestown also programmed a portion of the walkway to the Beltline for a farmers market and other events.

So what will it take to make the space you imagine a reality? The only smart way to address these questions is to work closely with my team and I to develop a plan that you and your team can follow from day one. Don’t design-as-you-go, you will be redoing work for no reason.

Looking to convert an older building into the mixed-use project of tomorrow? 

Contact edie today to get started.