Title

Author(s)

Laura Magri

Muck Petzet

Affiliation

Academy of Architecture USI, Institure for Sustainable Architecture and Technology (IAST)

DOI

https://doi.org/10.65686/MSOJ1614

Keywords

Keywords: Baukultur, Umbaukultur, Minimal Intervention

PP

610-614

How to Cite

Magri, Laura, Muck Petzet. “From “Baukultur” to “Umbaukultur” A Critical Framework for Adaptive Reuse.” In Proceedings of the International Conference on Adaptive Reuse. Volume 1, edited by Andrea Crudeli, Francesca Molle, and Emanuele Carrai, 610–614. Firenze: STH Press, 2026.

Abstract

This paper develops within the framework of the Swiss National Science Foundation research project From “Baukultur” to “Umbaukultur”. From a culture of demolition and replacement to a culture of care and repair, conducted at the Institute for Sustainable Architecture and Technology (IAST) of the Academy of Architecture in Mendrisio. The study aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse on adaptive reuse by proposing a critical framework grounded in shared values and cross-disciplinary strategies. Drawing on the “waste hierarchy” established by European Directive on waste management, and on conservation theories developed in heritage preservation, the paper explores how a similar hierarchy can guide architectural practice towards minimal intervention and maximum socio-environmental benefit. By analyzing the principles of minimal intervention in conservation theory and cross-referencing them with methodologies from other sectors, the research proposes a theoretical model for adaptive reuse structured around three levels of action: reduction, focusing on behavioral change, maintenance, and reprogramming; reuse, involving conversion and redesign; and recycling, encompassing material and formal transformation. This hierarchy promotes a paradigm shift from the current throwaway-culture of the construction industry to one centered on care, preservation, and sustainable transformation. Ultimately, the paper advocates for the establishment of a shared value system, a theory of most minimal intervention and most positive effects, as foundation for future policies and practices in architectural reuse.

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.