Open Heritage - Community-Driven Adaptive Reuse in Europe: Best Practice

"Open Heritage - Community-Driven Adaptive Reuse in Europe: Best Practice" is a publication by Birkhäuser, a renowned publisher specializing in architecture and design. The book is a collaborative effort by researchers involved in the OpenHeritage project, which was funded by the Horizon 2020 program. The project aimed to explore and promote sustainable adaptive reuse practices for heritage sites across Europe, focusing on engaging local communities and enhancing social and economic viability.

The book addresses crucial themes such as reducing neglect of built resources, broadening access to refurbished heritage sites, and building support for local heritage. It emphasizes the importance of involving local communities in the decision-making processes related to heritage reuse. The contributors share various case studies from across Europe, highlighting practical responses to challenges in adaptive reuse, particularly in socially or geographically marginal contexts.

The book showcases nine case studies from diverse locations including Cascina Roccafranca in Turin, Stará Tržnica in Bratislava, and Jam Factory in Lviv. Each case illustrates different approaches to adaptive reuse, emphasizing collaboration among various stakeholders such as local governments, NGOs, and community members. For example, Cascina Roccafranca has transformed a former farmstead into a multifunctional community center, while Stará Tržnica revitalized a historic market hall through community-led initiatives.

A critical aspect discussed is the financing of adaptive reuse projects. Many heritage sites rely on a mix of public and private funding, grants, and community engagement strategies. For instance, the Old Market Hall in Bratislava operates under a rent-to-investment scheme, ensuring economic sustainability while allowing for significant renovations. Similarly, Jam Factory in Lviv combines private investment with external grants to create an interdisciplinary center for contemporary arts.

The publication also outlines governance structures and policy recommendations that facilitate community-driven adaptive reuse. It advocates for inclusive governance models that allow for horizontal decision-making among stakeholders. This approach not only improves the adaptability of heritage sites but also ensures that local communities are actively involved in the management and use of these resources.

The OpenHeritage project highlights the potential of adaptive reuse to address social, economic, and environmental challenges. By engaging local communities and utilizing sustainable practices, these projects can transform neglected sites into vibrant community hubs that reflect and enhance local heritage. The publication serves as a vital resource for policymakers, practitioners, and community activists interested in sustainable housing and heritage management across Europe.