The adaptive re-use of our built heritage for a greener Europe

In the framework of the European Week of Regions and Cities, on Wednesday 9 October the Architects’ Council of Europe is organising a workshop on the Adaptive Re-use of our Built Environment for a Greener Europe, in collaboration with the Federal Chamber of German Architects (BAK) and the European Commission's DG Culture and Education.

Many heritage places are nowadays disused or have lost the functions for which they were originally built. Through smart renovation and transformation, they can find new, mixed or extended uses. As a result, their social, environmental and economic value can increase, while their cultural significance is enhanced.

The workshop will aim to discuss the benefits, challenges and barriers inherent to the re-use of heritage places and how this kind of quality project contributes to a greener Europe. It will also provide the opportunity to discuss the Leeuwarden Declaration that was adopted last year by several stakeholders of the heritage sector, as a legacy of the European Year of Cultural Heritage. This Declaration highlights the possible benefits of adaptive re-use of heritage sites and lists quality principles to reconcile heritage values with contemporary architecture.

More information and registration (the event is free of charge)