Title

Author(s)

Karina Brünner

Affiliation

Institute of Urbanism, TU Graz,

DOI

https://doi.org/10.65686/ZULL8321

Keywords

Installations, Definitive, Reversible

PP

189-196

How to Cite

Brünner, Karina. “Pastoral Properties as a Resource for Revitalizing Town Centers.” In Proceedings of the International Conference on Adaptive Reuse. Volume 1, edited by Andrea Crudeli, Francesca Molle, and Emanuele Carrai, 189-196. Firenze: STH Press, 2026.

Abstract

In Styria, Austria, numerous pastoral properties, such as parish houses, rectories, and associated buildings, are increasingly falling into disuse due to demographic shifts and institutional restructuring within the church. Located centrally in town and village centers, these properties hold significant potential for sustainable revitalization through adaptive reuse. Within the Styrian research program “Starke Zentren” (Strong Centers) – an initiative to promote multifunctional and vibrant town centers – initial synergies have emerged between regional planning institutions and the Diocese of Graz-Seckau. These collaborations include studies on conversion strategies aimed at unlocking the potential of pastoral properties to balance heritage preservation with contemporary urban development.
As part of a university workshop at Graz University of Technology’s Institute of Urbanism, in cooperation with the Province of Styria, six Styrian municipalities with pastoral properties were studied. Through interviews, spatial analysis, and mapping, students examined strategies for reusing former pastoral properties – documenting transformation processes, spatial integration, new uses, and participant networks. These case studies form the empirical basis of the paper.
Findings reveal that transformations succeed particularly when municipalities are engaged early and actively in the planning and design process. A sensitive approach to historic fabric combined with multifunctional programming enhances acceptance and sustainable use. Accessibility and a clear financial framework are key success factors. When these elements align, the attractiveness of town centers is increased, creating vibrant, diverse communal spaces. Conversely, projects lacking long-term vision and community participation tend to remain superficial and ineffective. The article highlights the transformative potential of such reuse strategies for sustainable urban and local development and identifies pastoral properties as important resources in the discussion about resilient, vibrant, and inclusive centers.

Edited by
Andrea Crudeli
Francesca Molle
Emanuele Carrai

Publisher
STH Press, Firenze

ISBN Paperback – 9791281661141
ISBN Ebook – 9791281661158
DOI – https://doi.org/10.65686/SISY7263

Year
2026

Proceedings of
International Conference on Adaptive Reuse
hosted by The University of Pisa, Italy
15-19 September 2025, at the Gispoteca di Arte Antica dell’Università di Pisa.