Abstract

This thesis investigates the adaptive reuse of abandoned school buildings in economically declining communities, mainly focusing on how these transformations can contribute to sustainable community revitalization. The research highlights Columbus, Ohio, where school closures and grade realignments threaten to leave many school properties vacant, especially in minority neighborhoods. This adaptive reuse strategy presents an opportunity to address issues such as urban decay, resource efficiency, and social equity by repurposing these buildings into multifunctional community assets. The study adopts a multi-method approach, including literature reviews, case study analysis, and community needs assessments, to identify best practices and critical challenges in adaptive reuse, such as regulatory obstacles and financial constraints. The research proposes a tailored framework for reimaging school buildings as hubs for community services, affordable housing, and cultural centers by reviewing successful examples from diverse regions and gathering stakeholder data. Findings suggest that adaptive reuse preserves school structures’ architectural and cultural heritage and offers a cost-effective, environmentally friendly strategy that aligns with sustainability goals. The proposed framework provides a practical roadmap for policymakers, developers, and communities, aiming to support adaptive reuse initiatives that foster sustainable urban renewal. This study concludes that adaptive reuse, mainly when supported by effective policy and green design practices, can catalyze revitalizing economically challenged communities.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Abandoned buildings--Remodeling for other use; Schools--Remodeling for other use; Shrinking cities; Cultural property--Conservation and restoration; Sustainable architecture

Publication Date

4-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Architecture (M.Arch.)

Department, Program, or Center

Architecture, Department of

College

Golisano Institute for Sustainability

Advisor

Julius J. Chiavaroli

Advisor/Committee Member

Seth H. Holmes

Advisor/Committee Member

Alissa De Wit-Paul

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

Plan Codes

ARCH-MARCH

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