adaptive reuse

USAGE SUMMARY

The term "adaptive reuse" is correct and can be used in written English.
This term is used to refer to the process of giving new uses to existing buildings or other infrastructure, often in order to make them better suited to current needs. For example, "The factory was repurposed into a community center through adaptive reuse."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

"Adaptive reuse" often destroys a building's original character.

The New York Times

"We've done our share of adaptive reuse," he said.

The New York Times

Adaptive reuse is a buzzword among green-minded architects.

The New York Times

"Adaptive reuse is the way to go in our community now," he said.

The New York Times

Last year, the Los Angeles Business Journal gave the Church an award for adaptive reuse.

The New Yorker

The concept of "adaptive reuse" might then be applied to function, not to form.

The New York Times

A compelling example of adaptive reuse can also be seen in the common area.

The Guardian

Like the hangars the well-preserved runways see a lot of adaptive reuse.

The New York Times - Arts

"It has been quite fascinating working on an adaptive reuse like this," Mr. Nicholson said.

The New York Times

"It's a new way of approaching adaptive reuse," Mr. Ehrlich said, "a public and private marriage where everybody wins".

The New York Times - Arts

The former Annunciation Convent on Havemeyer Street in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn represents a different direction in adaptive reuse.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing sustainability or urban planning, use "adaptive reuse" to highlight the environmentally friendly aspect of repurposing existing structures instead of constructing new ones.

Common error

Avoid using "adaptive reuse" interchangeably with simple renovation. "Adaptive reuse" implies a significant change in the building's function, not just cosmetic upgrades.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "adaptive reuse" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI highlights, it describes the process of repurposing existing structures for new uses. Examples show it used to describe specific projects or as a general concept in urban planning.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "adaptive reuse" is a commonly used and grammatically sound noun phrase referring to the process of repurposing existing buildings or infrastructure for new uses. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage. It is frequently found in news and media, science, and formal business contexts, with authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian providing numerous examples. The phrase carries a neutral to professional register and serves the purpose of describing and advocating for sustainable and economically viable approaches to urban development. When using this term, ensure that the new purpose is truly different and not simply a renovation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

building repurposing

Focuses specifically on repurposing buildings, omitting broader applications.

repurposing of architecture

Highlights architecture and its new usages.

facility adaptation

Highlights the adaptation of facilities, often for commercial or industrial purposes.

building conversion

Emphasizes the transformation of a building from one use to another.

resource repurposing

Broadens the scope to include any resource, not just buildings.

structural adaptation

Focuses on modifying the structure itself for a new purpose.

retrofitting buildings

Focuses on upgrading existing buildings for new purposes or improved performance.

creative revitalization

Highlights the innovative aspect of giving new life to existing spaces or objects.

transformation of spaces

Emphasizes the alteration and change in the use of existing spaces.

historic renovation

Implies a focus on preserving historical aspects while adapting for new uses.

FAQs

How is "adaptive reuse" typically used in a sentence?

"Adaptive reuse" is often used to describe the process of converting old buildings into new spaces, such as turning a factory into apartments or a school into a community center.

What are some alternatives to "adaptive reuse"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "adaptive reuse" can include "building repurposing", "facility adaptation", or "building conversion".

Is "adaptive reuse" the same as historic preservation?

While both involve existing structures, "adaptive reuse" focuses on changing the building's function, while historic preservation prioritizes maintaining its original form and historical significance. Sometimes "adaptive reuse" can incorporate elements of "historic renovation".

Why is "adaptive reuse" important in urban planning?

"Adaptive reuse" reduces urban sprawl, minimizes environmental impact by using existing materials, and can preserve community character by retaining familiar landmarks. It's also related to "creative revitalization".