Design for adaptability (DfA) has been defined as the intentional design of buildings that can be easily rejuvenated to stay relevant in the face of changing needs and preferences. DfA is a potential solution to prevent the economic, environmental, and social costs associated with demolishing obsolete buildings. Stated another way, DfA can extend the service life of buildings, thereby contributing to sustainable built environments.

This research addressed several questions: How can buildings' adaptability be measured? Are DfA strategies reported in the literature effective at producing adaptable buildings? Which strategies are most effective? Do adaptability measurement tools reflect "real-world" adaptability? Is the premium paid for adaptable design justified by the potential economic benefits?

Multiple studies within this project demonstrated that DfA strategies could, in fact, make it easier to adapt buildings in the future. This was demonstrated through qualitative responses from building professionals when they described which features made real-life buildings easier to adapt. In some circumstances, the presence of these DfA strategies made it more likely that a building would be adapted rather than demolished, as shown by quantitative studies of real-life adapted and demolished buildings. This was most clear for buildings with long-term owners, as a study of college campus buildings suggested. In other circumstances, this trend was not as clear; a study of a broader range of buildings gave a less clear picture of the influence of DfA strategies on the likelihood of adaptation.

The researchers developed various tools and models for evaluating the adaptability of buildings. They also tested and validated common measurement methods to determine whether the adaptability assessments reflect real-life adaptability; the team concluded that the weighted-sum method, a common adaptability measurement method, can be effective. The team also investigated the economic costs of adaptability through case studies and developed a cost-benefit economic model. The model can be used to compare the initial costs associated with DfA against benefits that can be realized through expanded future options. The cost-benefit question is a significant but largely unexplored issue in adaptability studies, and this project can serve as a jumping-off point for future research.

In addition to these research endeavors, collaboration, outreach, and industry engagement were essential for this project. The team built international collaborations in Asia, Australia, and Europe with other researchers who study building adaptation. A college course in adaptability was created and taught at Clemson University, and multiple continuing education seminars were conducted for building professionals. Engaging domestic and international industry professionals was a vital part of many studies. Finally, public outreach and education about adaptable buildings (and science awareness in general) were achieved throughout the project through Girl Scout educational programs, guest lectures at Clemson, posters at science awareness events, and a coloring book.

Last Modified: 12/27/2022
Modified by: Brandon E Ross