Building Legacy: Sustainability Through Reuse

Room: Harrison Shepard Hall
Time: 10:30am – 11:30am
CEUs: AIA: 1 LU/HSW

This session explores the transformative potential of adaptive reuse, a sustainable strategy that reimagines the value of aging buildings. As climate change drives innovation in design, building reuse emerges as a powerful solution to reduce embodied carbon, honor cultural heritage, and craft modern spaces for today’s needs. Participants will gain insights into inspiring adaptive reuse projects, learn methods to assess the viability of existing structures, and discover practical ways to tackle challenges such as code requirements and material salvage. Whether you’re an architect, developer, or advocate for sustainability, this session will shift your perspective on older buildings—transforming them from obstacles into opportunities. Join us to explore how rethinking the past can shape a resilient, creative, and sustainable future. Together, we’ll redefine adaptive reuse as a cornerstone of responsible and visionary architectural practice.

Whether you’re an architect, facility owner/operator, or sustainability advocate, this session will provide the tools and inspiration to view aging buildings as valuable opportunities rather than challenges. You’ll discover how reuse can revitalize projects, lower environmental impact, and support a circular economy.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify Opportunities in Existing Buildings
• Learn How Reuse Reduces Embodied Carbon
• Solve Common Challenges in Reuse Projects
• Use Sustainable Design Practices

Speaker:
Hafsa Burt, Principal, hb+a Architects

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Hafsa Burt, Principal, hb+a Architects