Adaptive Reuse

The process of adapting old structures and materials for purposes other than those initially intended.

Albion College Facilities Operations places a high priority on Adaptive Reuse in all construction, renovation, and maintenance projects. Benefits of adaptive reuse include lower material costs, a reduction in our ecological footprint, and architectural continuity.

• Science Complex Atrium grand staircase was made from lumber from the trees that were removed from the site in the construction process.
• College entry signs are made from materials recovered from Epworth Hall.
• The Mosaic on the face of the Ferguson cupola and the limestone in the entry were recovered from the original Administration Building which Ferguson replaced.
• Another example of Adaptive Reuse is the renovation of the residential annexes, such as the “Owl House”, located at 507 E. Erie.  These annexes are typically created from homes on the perimeter of the campus.
• Typically, extensive renovations are required of these older homes to bring them up to the expected level for residential housing.  Accessibility and modern wiring are two of the bigger challenges.