From Abandonment to Social Vibrancy: Adaptive Re-Use and Social Space Production in the Revitalization of Runik’s Cultural Center
Session
Architecture and Spatial Planning
Description
Since Adaptive reuse and regeneration are essential for preserving heritage while meeting contemporary community needs. Balancing authenticity with new functions is challenging, yet the revitalization of the Cultural Center in Runik demonstrates this integration through minimal, reversible interventions guided by historical research and conservation principles of authenticity, material compatibility, and reversibility. The project introduces community-oriented uses—multifunctional spaces for theater, film, exhibitions, workshops, a library, permanent and temporary museum, and a café—while adding a new annex that complements these functions. The surrounding landscape becomes a sustainable public space with an outdoor amphitheater, green areas, and improved accessibility to public transport. Inspired by Lefebvre’s theory of the production of space, the design seeks to foster cultural, social, and educational interaction, grounded in community participation. Transforming an abandoned site into a vibrant hub, the project safeguards heritage, strengthens identity, and exemplifies sustainable, inclusive reuse, bridging historical significance with modern needs. The research method combines historical analysis, condition assessments, and community participation to guide adaptive reuse through minimal, reversible, and sustainable design interventions.
Keywords:
Heritage, Adaptation, Sustainability, Community, Preservation
Proceedings Editor
Edmond Hajrizi
ISBN
978-9951-982-41-2
Location
UBT Kampus, Lipjan
Start Date
25-10-2025 9:00 AM
End Date
26-10-2025 6:00 PM
DOI
10.33107/ubt-ic.2025.17
Recommended Citation
Bajmaku, Ajhan; Ceko, Bekim; and Ahmeti, Shqiprim, "From Abandonment to Social Vibrancy: Adaptive Re-Use and Social Space Production in the Revitalization of Runik’s Cultural Center" (2025). UBT International Conference. 18.
https://knowledgecenter.ubt-uni.net/conference/2025UBTIC/ASP/18
From Abandonment to Social Vibrancy: Adaptive Re-Use and Social Space Production in the Revitalization of Runik’s Cultural Center
UBT Kampus, Lipjan
Since Adaptive reuse and regeneration are essential for preserving heritage while meeting contemporary community needs. Balancing authenticity with new functions is challenging, yet the revitalization of the Cultural Center in Runik demonstrates this integration through minimal, reversible interventions guided by historical research and conservation principles of authenticity, material compatibility, and reversibility. The project introduces community-oriented uses—multifunctional spaces for theater, film, exhibitions, workshops, a library, permanent and temporary museum, and a café—while adding a new annex that complements these functions. The surrounding landscape becomes a sustainable public space with an outdoor amphitheater, green areas, and improved accessibility to public transport. Inspired by Lefebvre’s theory of the production of space, the design seeks to foster cultural, social, and educational interaction, grounded in community participation. Transforming an abandoned site into a vibrant hub, the project safeguards heritage, strengthens identity, and exemplifies sustainable, inclusive reuse, bridging historical significance with modern needs. The research method combines historical analysis, condition assessments, and community participation to guide adaptive reuse through minimal, reversible, and sustainable design interventions.