August 15, 2024
How Historical Preservation Shapes Modern Development
At Armada Hoffler, we prioritize balancing historical preservation with modern development. Our approach to adaptive reuse honors the past while addressing contemporary needs. This strategy enables us to preserve cultural heritage and promote sustainability and economic growth for the communities where our properties are located.
What is Adaptive Reuse?
Adaptive reuse involves repurposing existing buildings for new functions. This approach retains the historical and architectural integrity of these structures, allowing them to remain valuable community assets. It maintains a connection to shared heritage and provides a sense of identity within communities. Additionally, adaptive reuse is a sustainable practice that conserves resources by minimizing the need for new materials and reducing construction waste. Repurposing historical structures can attract investment, create jobs, and generate tax revenue, transforming underutilized spaces into productive properties.
Our Adaptive Reuse Projects
Armada Hoffler has successfully implemented adaptive reuse in several projects. For example, Chronicle Mill in Belmont, North Carolina, has been transformed from an abandoned textile mill into a mixed-use development that blends historical preservation with modern functionality. Another example is the conversion of the former Dominion Energy Headquarters into The Edison, a 174-unit multifamily housing property in Richmond, Virginia.
Benefits of Adaptive Reuse
Repurposing existing structures can be up to 50% less expensive than new construction and reduces demolition costs. By reusing materials and structures, adaptive reuse projects conserve energy and lower the environmental footprint of development. These projects often occur in densely populated areas, providing essential services and amenities while preserving the community’s character.
Incorporating historical preservation into modern development is a strategic priority for Armada Hoffler. Projects like Chronicle Mill and The Edison showcase the benefits of adaptive reuse, including cost reduction, environmental advantages, and historical preservation. By collaborating with local governments and adhering to regulatory requirements, we guarantee our projects are sustainable and beneficial to the community. Armada Hoffler is committed to integrating growth with cultural heritage preservation, proving that development and historical preservation can effectively coexist.