The Potential of Form (Elena Guidetti)

How can we explore adaptations of old buildings from a fresh, post-functional perspective? Exploring the concept of transformative potential, this book shows how the repurposing of existing buildings uncovers untapped possibilities that go beyond traditional categories. Analyzing several European examples in depth, it asks how architectural designs change over time and what this means for sustainability and preserving heritage. Drawings illustrate how architectural forms interact with their functions and environmental effects, providing a dynamic exploration of adaptive reuse. The Potential of Form suggests that adapting buildings involves balancing their design interventions, their consistency across time, and the latent energy embedded in their architectural form.

With an afterword by Matteo Robiglio, Full Professor in Architectural and Urban Design at the Department of Architecture and Design of Politecnico di Torino

• Explores new methods for repurposing old buildings, using an innovative framework
• Presents detailed case studies of adaptive reuse in European architecture (i.e. Bourse de Commerce, Elbphilharmonie, Duperré Playground, Vitali Sheds, PC Caritas, Alvéoles)
• Richly illustrated with drawings by the author

Elena Guidetti führt einen Doktortitel in Architektur und arbeitet derzeit als befristete Assistenzprofessorin im Fachbereich Architektur und Design am Politecnico di Torino, wo sie auch als Forscherin am Future Urban Legacy Lab tätig ist. Ihre Arbeit konzentriert sich auf die Adaptation von Gebäuden mit dem Ziel, architektonisches Erbe und Nachhaltigkeit miteinander zu verbinden.