Converting Historic Industrial Buildings in the United States: 6 Buildings Adapted for Contemporary Work

Many major American cities are grappling with large industrial buildings that have fallen into disuse. These buildings have historical and architectural importance and are often protected from demolition. As a result, architectural professionals face the challenge and responsibility of adapting these buildings to contemporary functions. The choice not to demolish reflects a sustainable building approach and highlights the importance of honoring built heritage.

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These large-scale buildings typically have strong structures and durable materials, which can fully benefit new uses. Large column spacing translates into very open interiors, making them great choices for cultural spaces, work spaces and open-plan office designs.

The following projects are excellent examples of the revitalization of these buildings in recent years in the United States. These spaces become focal points for cultural activities, business initiatives and social interactions, enriching the fabric of the city and improving its liveability.

Arts District Warehouse / Shift Faras 2024

In Los Angeles' Arts District, Sheft Farrace has transformed an abandoned 1920s warehouse into a new multi-purpose space. The challenge was to preserve and respect the architectural integrity and historical significance of the building while at the same time breathing new life into it, a multi-use space that could serve as a workplace, event space, or sometimes a creative studio.

Roberts Projects Gallery/Johnston Markley 2023

Johnston Markle has transformed a 1940s car showroom into a bright contemporary art gallery. The building's exterior design and facade seamlessly integrates into the city's cultural landscape, while the interiors feature large exhibition spaces under arched ceilings.

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Newlab of Central Michigan/Civil Projects 2023

Newlab is an interior design project by Civilian Projects located in Albert Kahn's iconic The Book Depository Building, built in 1936. The project focused on establishing a harmonious dialogue between Kahn's modernist architecture and the space's new function as an innovation center and workplace.

The Arts of Power / Herzog & de Meuron 2022

The Herzog & de Meuron project transforms a 115-year-old power station into an artistic production workshop. It preserves the industrial character of the building and its connection to the site context by preserving and restoring the various elements of the factory. Exposed-frame interiors allow for flexible workshop spaces.

Harlem Artists Studio/SO-IL 2021

A burned-out former church in Brooklyn has been transformed into a studio, gallery and home for artists. The project achieves an ideal balance between preserving the heritage character of the building and the site, and creating a new space adapted to modern needs.

Workspace 77 Washington / Worrell Young Architects 2020

This industrial warehouse built from the 1920s has been transformed into a multi-purpose workspace capable of adapting to different scenarios. Closely integrated with neighboring buildings, this new space houses artists and photography studios. The building's original elements, including its shell, brick walls and wooden doors, were restored and enhanced in the new design of the space.

This article is part of a series sponsored by ArchDaily that focuses on projects built from our library grouped into specific themes related to cities, genres, materials, or software. Each month we will highlight a group of structures that find a common thread among previously unfamiliar contexts, revealing the depth of impact on our built environments. As always, at ArchDaily we greatly value the contributions of our readers. If you think we should mention specific ideas, please send us your suggestions.