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Assessment of Abandoned Buildings and Their Potential for Adaptive Reuse

Abstract

Abandoned buildings are increasingly visible in many urban areas as a result of economic decline, changing land-use patterns, poor maintenance, ownership disputes, functional obsolescence, and rapid urban development. Although such buildings are often perceived as sources of physical deterioration and urban blight, they may contain valuable structural, spatial, and cultural resources that can be integrated into contemporary development. Adaptive reuse provides an opportunity to transform these underutilized structures into functional spaces while reducing the need for complete demolition and new construction. Assessing the condition and potential of abandoned buildings is therefore important for sustainable urban development and efficient use of existing resources. This study assesses abandoned buildings and examines their potential for adaptive reuse within the built environment. The assessment focuses on the physical condition, structural characteristics, spatial configuration, accessibility, location, existing services, and surrounding land-use context of selected abandoned buildings. It also considers the original functions of the buildings and the possibility of accommodating new uses without compromising structural integrity or architectural value. Such an assessment can provide a basis for determining which buildings are suitable for rehabilitation, conversion, or partial reconstruction. The research examines the factors that influence the feasibility of adaptive reuse, including building age, structural stability, floor area, building form, circulation patterns, natural lighting, ventilation, infrastructure, and compliance with current building regulations. The compatibility between existing spatial arrangements and proposed new functions is also considered. Buildings with flexible layouts, accessible locations, adequate structural capacity, and adaptable spaces may offer greater opportunities for reuse. The study therefore emphasizes systematic evaluation rather than treating all abandoned buildings as equally suitable for redevelopment. Beyond physical characteristics, the study considers economic, social, environmental, and cultural factors associated with adaptive reuse. Reusing existing buildings can reduce demolition waste, conserve embodied energy, minimize consumption of new construction materials, and contribute to urban regeneration. At the same time, financial constraints, ownership issues, outdated infrastructure, safety concerns, regulatory requirements, and community acceptance may limit the feasibility of reuse projects. Understanding these factors is essential for developing practical strategies that balance conservation, functionality, cost, and contemporary user requirements. The findings are expected to identify the major opportunities and constraints associated with the adaptive reuse of abandoned buildings. The study may establish assessment criteria that can assist architects, planners, developers, property owners, and public authorities in determining appropriate reuse options. Potential new functions may include residential, commercial, institutional, cultural, recreational, or community-oriented uses, depending on the characteristics and location of each building. Such interventions can contribute to revitalizing neglected areas while extending the useful life of existing structures. Ultimately, the study aims to demonstrate how systematic assessment can support informed decisions regarding the adaptive reuse of abandoned buildings. By integrating physical evaluation with environmental, economic, social, and functional considerations, the research contributes to sustainable approaches to urban regeneration and resource conservation. The findings can encourage the transformation of suitable abandoned structures into productive assets, reducing unnecessary demolition while promoting more resilient, efficient, and adaptable urban environments.

Keywords: Abandoned buildings, Adaptive reuse, Building assessment, Urban regeneration, Building rehabilitation, Sustainable architecture, Existing buildings, Structural condition, Functional adaptability, Urban development, Resource conservation, Embodied energy, Building conversion, Sustainable redevelopment.