Adaptation of New University Uses in Old Buildings: The Case of Rehabilitation of Listed Buildings in Limassol Cyprus for University Purposes

Abstract

The practice of reusing an existing building is almost as old as building itself. Throughout centuries many different attitudes were followed for the revitalization of old buildings depending on the society and the values respected. According to the Venice Charter the conservation of historic buildings is always facilitated by socially useful purposes. Such purposes are desirable but should not change the character of the building. The revitalization of a number of listed buildings in Limassol, Cyprus, and their reuse for housing the Technological University of Cyprus is the object of this paper. The decision of introducing university uses in an historic center is unique for the island and leads to the revival of the old town, giving it new life and opportunities for redevelopment. The analysis of the various effects of implementation of new uses different from the original ones leads to broader discussions on the conversion of historic buildings within the philosophical framework of international principles for rehabilitation. It also raises questions relative to intervention, sustainable development, and reinforcement of existing structures in order to meet contemporary requirements. ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]; Copyright of International Journal of Architectural Heritage: Conservation, Analysis & Restoration is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)