Lifecycle Extension: Adaptive Reuse, Layering, and Open Building

Patterns that multiply a building’s useful life through retrofit, conversion, and design for adaptability.

• Adaptive Reuse — convert an existing building to a new use before accepting demolition and replacement.
• Shearing Layers (Six S’s) — separate building layers by their different rates of change.
• Long Life, Loose Fit — make durable parts last while keeping shorter-life parts forgiving enough to change.
• Open Building (Support and Infill) — separate long-lived support from occupant-controlled infill.
• Adaptive-Reuse Feasibility Triage — test reuse viability before the demolition or replacement path hardens.