There’s a growing issue in cities everywhere. More and more people are needing homes — but it seems like there isn’t enough space. We’ve been searching for solutions by developing new high-rise buildings. Yet, the real solution could be right in front of us. Historic buildings contain something more than just historical significance; they hold the secret to how we can sustainably live in the modern age.
From decades of destruction to generations of adaptation
For generations, urban planners have destroyed historic sites to develop new areas. This destruction was done under the assumption that new development would always be better than old. As we transitioned toward a modern society, many felt that glass and steel were what defined modernization. Yet, destruction of a historic site produces massive amounts of waste, and it eliminates the unique history and identity of a particular area. Rather than destroying these areas, we are adapting them.
Adaptation converts old abandoned factories into loft-style homes. It takes abandoned schools and adapts them into residential properties. This type of adaptation retains the “memory of stone,” which houses new families in addition to preserving the history of an area. Additionally, adaptive reuse decreases the amount of greenhouse gas emissions created from construction.
Why preservation saves energy
Construction consumes huge amounts of energy. The process involves mining, transporting, processing materials, etc. While a brand-new building does not have anything holding it together (other than the four walls), an Older building already has its frame, walls, ceiling, etc. Therefore, when we preserve and renovate Older buildings instead of constructing a new building, we are saving energy as soon as someone enters the building.
Connecting healthcare to home-based solutions:
While preservation provides numerous Benefits such as increased property values and environmental sustainability, it also provides families with safe and adaptable environments. Most repurposed buildings have expansive hallways and open floor plans allowing caregivers to assist patients with ease. For example, families who reside in these types of spaces will often search for supportive equipment. In fact, when families search for a hospital bed rental in the GTA for their parents in converted urban suites, these historic buildings provide both the charm of yesteryear and functionality of tomorrow.
Finding a balance between aesthetic appeal and functionality
So how do we turn an 1800’s warehouse into a modern home? The simple answer is smart design.
- Install elevators in old elevator shafts.
- Increase the height of your ceilings to promote airflow.
- Leave your original wooden beams exposed for aesthetics.
- Hide smart home technology behind walls and ceilings.
- Provide sufficient bathroom space to accommodate medical equipment.
Economic reality of preserving the past
Which option is more expensive — restoring or demolishing? In some cases, it is difficult to determine which option is truly more costly. We must therefore take the total economic value into account. There is evidence showing that neighbourhoods with designated historic districts have a greater appreciation for property values. People appreciate homes with character and stories behind them.
To achieve this goal, however, it is necessary to allocate specific funds towards each project. This is similar to how a developer tracks the cost of care for a patient, including timber costs. Determining whether to purchase a hospital bed versus renting one is a critical decision families make when establishing a home-care environment. Factors to consider include manual beds (most affordable); full-electric beds (provide most independence); rental agreements (weekly/monthly), delivery and set-up charges (standard); and maintenance (usually provided). These financial considerations demonstrate the similarities between the individualized choices made by homeowners and the larger-scale decisions made by urban planners striving to balance preservation and innovation.
Social advantages of preserving our heritage
Preservation serves as a social adhesive. Preservation maintains the visual identity of a city. When we preserve landmarks, we preserve community anchors. Residents feel a greater sense of connection to their community. Thus, crime rates typically decline in preserved neighbourhoods.
Restoration initiatives also lead to the creation of local jobs. Restoration is labour-intensive. We require skilled craftsmen and local contractors. This approach keeps dollars in the local economy.
- Environmental consequences of living off of the “stone memory”
- The best green building is the one that already exists.
- Embodied carbon is avoided in production.
- Less construction debris goes to Landfills.
- Urban sprawl is minimized.
- Green spaces are saved from development.
Undisturbed local ecosystems remain.
Rather than developing outward, we are improving inward. This concept represents the essence of the “Stone Memory.”
Challenges in the preservation movement
Preservation is not without challenge. Often hidden within the physical walls of old buildings lie unknown dangers, including lead paint and obsolete electrical systems. As such, preservation requires comprehensive planning. Developers must respect the past while meeting current building regulations.
In other words, you cannot merely repaint the walls. Infrastructure—i.e., heating/cooling/accessibility—must be upgraded.
Removing Accessibility Barriers
Older buildings did not always accommodate everyone. However, advances in modern engineering enable barriers to be removed.
- Ramps can be integrated into stonework originally designed without ramps.
- Wide doors can be installed in non-structural walls.
- Lowered countertops aid wheelchair users.
- Lighting that is sensory can aid those with impaired eyesight.
Families seeking hospital bed rentals in Richmond Hill find that converted urban residences provide ample space for recovery from illness or injury. Sturdy floors found in old mills can easily bear the weight of heavy medical equipment.
Government incentives to preserve the past
Both state and federal governments have introduced tax incentives for developers interested in preservation. Tax incentives encourage developers to opt for “preserve” rather than “demolish.” Consequently, affordable housing projects often use historic buildings to address the shortage of available affordable housing for low-income families.
At the same time, individuals residing in these restored properties benefit from quality construction materials such as solid stone and substantial hardwoods. today, these materials are considered luxury items; historically speaking, they were the norm for most residential properties.
Understanding the cost of providing care
Families must address several financial realities when providing care in a historic district. Families considering renting a hospital bed vs. purchasing a permanent bed weigh multiple factors, including short-term rental options during rehabilitation and long-term rental options for individuals experiencing chronic health issues. Some insurance providers may partially reimburse families for the cost of a rented bed. Families can also rent newer models if needed. Additionally, tax credits may be available to offset costs associated with modifying their residence to accommodate their loved ones’ needs. All of these small financial decisions regarding how to care for a family member reflect larger urban planning decisions regarding balancing preservation and progress.
Future directions for The “Memory of Stone”
A new era of urbanism is beginning. Urbanists no longer view historic buildings as obstacles to overcome. Rather, they view them as opportunities waiting to happen. The “Memory of Stone” reminds us of our roots and illustrates where we are headed as we strive to create a more environmentally conscious world while providing residents with aesthetically pleasing homes that meet their everyday needs.
Why this matters right now
The urgency surrounding affordable housing cannot be overstated. Waiting until every new skyscraper is completed is unrealistic. Rather, we should examine vacant warehouses and shuttered schools that sit idle awaiting another opportunity. These properties are located close to public transportation options. They are situated in pedestrian-friendly neighbourhoods. They possess character that new developments lack. They can be rehabilitated quicker than building new facilities from the ground up.
Preservation does not mean living inside a museum
The “Memory of Stone” provides us with an invaluable resource to commemorate our past while solving pressing problems facing our society today. Through repurposing historic structures, we create strong, resilient communities capable of accommodating the diverse needs of all residents regardless of age or disability status. Whether providing residents with affordable housing options or space for home-based care, preservation represents the future direction we must take as a society.
